Replacing Centipede Grass with St. Augustine Sod: A Complete Guide

Fast Lawn Conversion Without the Wait

A homeowner with a small lawn wants to switch from centipede to St. Augustine grass quickly—no years of plugging. Sean Murphy outlines the most effective method.

Recommended Process

1. Herbicide application: Spray existing centipede with an EPA-approved herbicide. Wait 2 weeks for complete kill.
2. Remove dead sod: Scrape off or till in the dead grass. Critical: Expose bare topsoil—never lay new sod over old grass.
3. Lay new St. Augustine sod: Install immediately on prepared soil.

Alternative: Solarization (Less Reliable)

Covering the lawn with 6-mil black plastic for several weeks can kill grass through heat, but success is marginal and requires full sun. Not recommended for guaranteed results.

For a small area, the herbicide-then-sod method is fastest, most reliable, and ensures good root contact for the new lawn.