Grass cutting is a weekly ritual for most lawn owners. Here are some things to remember to help you get the best from your lawn mower and your lawn.
Lawn Mowing Tips
Remember that mowing is pruning. Proper mowing increases the density of the lawn, which in turn decreases weeds. Each type of grass has a recommended mowing height. Find out which type of grass is in your lawn (you may have more than one) and mow at the proper height.
Stick to the 1/3 rule — never remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade length at any one time. A healthy lawn can survive an occasional close cut. Repeated close mowing, or scalping, produces a brown lawn and has several harmful side effects, including:
Injury to the crown, where new growth generates and nutrients are stored.
The surface area of the blade is insufficient to produce food through photosynthesis.
Close mowing makes grass more susceptible to pests and disease.
Weed seeds have enough sunlight to germinate.
The soil may become compacted.
Also remember to:
Mow when the grass is dry. The blades are upright and less likely to clump when cut.
Keep mower blades sharp and balanced. Ragged cuts made by dull blades increase the chance of disease and pests.
Change the mowing pattern each time you mow. Grass develops a grain based on your cutting direction, tending to lean towards the direction you mow. Alternating the pattern causes more upright growth.
Mow moving forward, whether pushing a walk-behind mower or behind the wheel of a lawn tractor.
Discharge the clippings (unless you bag them) towards the area you have already cut.
Mow grass higher in shaded areas under trees where grass has to compete for water and nutrients with tree roots.
Leave clippings on the lawn unless they form clumps or rows. Grass-cycling returns nutrients and nitrogen to the lawn.
Reduce mowing frequency and raise the mowing height of cool-season grasses when hot, dry weather slows their growth rate.
Follow the proper fertilizing schedule for your type of turfgrass.
Mowing new grass
Newly-seeded grass needs 3-4 weeks to get established after germination before it should be mowed for the first time. The leaves are tender and easily damaged and the foot and mower traffic could compact the soil, especially if the soil is moist. Mow when the new grass is 3/4"-1" taller than its recommended regular mowing height.
Lawn Mowers
These tips will help you get the most from your machine.
Always follow the mower's operating and maintenance instructions in the owner's manual. Also read and follow all safety precautions.
Clear debris from the are to be mowed. Children and pets should also be elsewhere.
Do not remove or alter discharge chutes or any other safety attachments.
Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
Protect yourself from the summer heat while working outdoors.
Do not refuel a hot engine.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Mow across slopes when grass is dry if you use a push mower. Mow up and down slopes with a riding mower.
Riding mowers have a few unique safety precautions.
Learn how to operate your riding mower before you take to the lawn, especially if you've purchased a zero-turn-radius (ZTR) model.
Do not carry passengers.
Remove the key when not in use.
Pre-season and post-season mower maintenance will prolong the life of your mowing machines and produce a better looking lawn.
