Question
I just moved into a new home that has had centipede grass growing . In some areas there is dirt spots. There is alot of shade in this yard. Should i replant another type of grass or is this grass going to work. I do plan on triming up some trees but i love the shade and would like to keep the grass that i have and just make it better. What should i do?
                        
                      Thanks Cory

ps i do live in east tx

Answer
Centipede grass is more shade tolorant than bermuda grass, for example, but not as good as st. augustine or zoysia grass. Since you have centipede grass, I recommend that you give it a try. If shade appear to be a problem eventually, you could consider st. augustine sod instead.

To give your centipede grass best possible conditions for growth, try to ensure that the soil stays acidic (5.5 pH is ideal). If possible, have a soil test send to Texas A&M ( your local county extension office).
You can find information here: http://county-tx.tamu.edu/

You can lower soil pH by applying gardeners sulfur (in moderate amounts) until the pH reaches a suitable level.

Use a regular lawn fertilizer once in early summer and again in late summer. Do not over fertilize this grass type. You can cut the normal recommendation in half. E.g. use about 1.5 lbs of regular 29-3-4 (lawn fertilizer) in early summer and again in late summer. It is safe to turn the dial down 1-2 full turns to limit the amount of product being dispensed from the spreader (compared to recommendations on the bag).

Mow the grass low. If you mow above 2" in height, the centipede grass tends to decline in attractiveness. Try to mow it at 1.25" or 1.5". This will also encourage tillering (stolons) which will thicken up the lawn. Just watch out in early spring. Do not mow this grass too close until it has started to grow on its own.