If you’re a homeowner who cuts the grass short to “get more time between mows,” it may be time to change your strategy.
According to lawn care pros, cutting your lawn too short or “scalping” can stress your turf, encourage weed growth, and even attract pests.
So, what’s the secret to a healthy, lush lawn? Height. Landscapers agree that a slightly taller cut, the right timing, and well-maintained equipment can transform a patchy lawn into a thriving green space.
The ideal height for your grass depends on where you live
The ideal grass height depends on your region and grass type.”
When it comes to warm-season grasses—such as Bermuda and St. Augustine—in Southern regions, the sweet spot is anywhere between 1.5 to 2.5 inches. These grasses tolerate shorter cuts but still benefit from moderate height during droughts.
Regardless of where you live, make sure you don’t cut more than one-third of the grass blade at once.
Your grass uses its blades to create energy via photosynthesis. Think of the blades as solar panels collecting energy. When you cut more than a third of the blade, the plant is now deprived of that surface area that it needs to create energy and stay healthy.
While cutting the grass short might seem like a homeowner hack, it can actually do more harm than good as it creates a barrier from the sun to the soil.
How often should you mow—and when’s the best time of day?
The million dollar question is, “What’s the ideal mowing frequency?
Mowing once a week is fine during the spring and fall—just remember to mow often enough that you are only taking off one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing.
During the hot summer months, you can space out your mowings a little longer, such as every 10 days or so. Whatever you do, don’t mow when the grass is wet or dewy, unless you want to deal with clumping and disease. Also, make sure it’s not too hot when mowing, or you might scorch the grass.
If possible, put your lawn mower to work mid-morning (8 a.m.–10 a.m.) or early evening (4 p.m.–6 p.m.) when the grass is dry but not under peak heat stress.
Don’t forget mower maintenance—it affects your lawn’s health
A well-maintained mower can help you achieve cleaner cuts, reduce lawn disease, and extend mower life. To keep your mower in tip-top shape, sharpen its blades every 20 to 25 hours of use or at least once per season. Also, clean under the deck regularly to avoid grass build-up, and check oil and air filters as part of your monthly maintenance.
Don’t forget to use the right blade height settings for your specific grass type. And remember: Dull mower blades can tear grass instead of cutting it, leading to frayed, brown tips and increased disease risk.
The condition of a lawn mower matters. If you’re longing for a beautiful, lush lawn, give it (and your equipment) the TLC it deserves.
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