Converting Centipede Sod to Plugs for Cost-Effective Establishment

Yes, You Can Plug Centipede Sod

A coastal Georgia homeowner couldn't find centipede plugs and was told sod can't be cut. The expert confirmed: warm-season grasses like centipede can absolutely be cut into plugs or sprigs.

Plugging Method

1. Prepare bare soil, soak thoroughly.
2. Cut sod into 2-4 inch squares (plugs) or tear into sprigs (stolon pieces with nodes).
3. Plant plugs 6-12 inches apart; push sprigs into wet soil every few inches.
4. Water daily until rooted (7-10 days), then transition to deep, infrequent watering.

Advantages Over Solid Sod

• One pallet of sod → hundreds of plugs → covers large area cheaply.
• Faster than seed, cheaper than solid sod.
• Centipede's stoloniferous growth fills gaps quickly in warm weather.

Timing

Best: Late spring through summer when soil warm and growth active. Avoid fall planting in marginal zones—needs time to establish before dormancy.