Lawn Mowing Tips

July 3, 2013 | Lawn Care, posted by Sasha

pencil drawing of a push mower

Mowing the lawn is one of the most fundamental aspects of lawn care. It’s also one of the most essential. Maintained mowing keeps the grass healthy and encourages lateral growth/density & a deeper root system – Which, in turn, allows for better absorption of nutrients and water. Here are some excellent tips for mowing your lawn more efficiently and effectively:

  • Mow frequently. It’s unhealthy to cut off too much of the grass at once. It makes the grass more vulnerable to disease. You shouldn’t ever be cutting off more than ⅓ of the grass blade in each mowing.
  • Keep a consistent schedule. Mowing frequently encourages lateral growth & lawn density, which helps protect the grass from pests & weeds.
  • Proper mow-height. Different types of grasses need to be cut at different heights. Look up or ask a professional about the ideal height for your specific grass type.
  • Mow high during high temps. During the summer, raise the lawnmower blade by ½ an inch so that the grass will be slightly taller for the season. Doing so makes your grass more tolerant of heat & drought stress. Longer leaves also shade the soil better and prevent weeds from growing. As summer ends, lower the height again; it’s best to do this gradually rather than all at once.
  • Leave the grass clippings on your lawn. They will naturally decompose and return nutrients to the soil. Just be sure the organic material is no thicker than about a 1/2 inch. Dense grass clippings will block out essential sunlight & harbor excessive moisture, encouraging lawn diseases. 
  • Go over each part of the lawn only once; don’t overlap pathways.
  • Change directions each time you mow to ensure an even surface.  

If you have any questions or are looking for some new grass, don’t hesitate to contact The Grass Outlet today.