Purple Streaks in Centipede Lawn: Traffic Stress, Not Disease

Those purple streaks appearing after mowing your centipede lawn are a classic sign of traffic stress. The grass produces anthocyanin pigments—the same compounds that color autumn leaves—in response to compaction from mower tires.

Simple Fixes

Vary your mowing pattern each time you cut. Mow at right angles to previous tracks and avoid mowing when the grass is drought-stressed. The discoloration is temporary and will disappear as new growth replaces the stressed blades.