Mowing Tips

Starting your lawn off on the right foot in the spring can set your lawn up for good health all season long.

How Much Should You Cut?

There is no one mowing height for all grasses, however, for Kentucky Bluegrass we recommend between 3 to 4 inches. The general rule is not to cut more than 1/3 of the grass height off at once. This helps keep away weeds and disease.

Longer grass will mean:

• More photosynthesis which provides more food
• More shade for cooler soil and less moisture loss
• Less weeds
• Deeper, stronger roots
• Grass grows more slowly

Mow High and Mow Often

Mowing high might mean more mowing more often. But, your lawn will thank you. Cutting too much blade at once can cause root shock. In hot, dry weather this can cause the grass to turn brown and go dormant.

Leave the Clippings

Nutrients from the grass clippings return to the soil and help fertilize the lawn. Lawns which do not have clippings returned to the soil often require 25-40% more fertilizer.

Keep Your Mower Blade Sharp

Nothing makes your lawn look sick faster than a dull mower blade. If your lawn begins to look straw-colored, check your blade to make sure you’re not shredding grass tops. Check the tips of the blades of grass after you mow, if they are frayed then the blade of your lawn mower needs to be sharpened. Frayed tips indicate that the grass plant has been injured by tearing it, which means a big increase in the possibility of insect or disease problems. You should always have a sharp blade on your mower.

Vary Your Mowing Pattern

To help grass blades stand up straight for the most sun and better air circulation, try to vary your mowing pattern.