Proper Mowining Practices for Your Lawn
Proper mowing is a critical factor in your lawn’s health and appearance. To mow properly, several issues must be considered – height, frequency, clipping removal, and blade sharpness.
· MOWING HEIGHT: Under most circumstances, lawns in this area should be mown at 2 ½ -3”. This generally is the highest or next-to-highest setting on your mower.
Mowing height is critical. If you mow too short the root system will be limited and shallow. Your lawn will be more prone to summer drought and disease stress. The higher you mow, the deeper your lawn’s root system will develop. Your lawn will stay greener longer into the summer and require less water.
Some people like to mow lower at the time of the last fall mowing. If you do, do not wait to raise your mower. Raise it back to 2 ½ - 3” in early spring to encourage a deep root system before summer.
· MOWING FREQUENCY: Most people mow once a week, which is fine. However, mowing more frequently, especially in the spring, will improve your lawn appearance. If you mow less frequently (i.e. every other week), lawn quality will suffer.
In general, do not remove more than 1/3 of the height of the grass each time you mow. For example, if you’re mowing at 2”, mow before your lawn reaches 3” in height.
Lawns go through a natural growth surge in the early spring. Ideally, you should mow every 4-5 days during this period, although this is not practical for most people.
· CLIPPINGS: Under most circumstances, do NOT remove clippings. University research repeatedly has shown that clippings do not contribute to thatch. Furthermore, clippings contain nitrogen, which becomes available to your lawn as clippings decompose. When you remove clippings you’re removing a source of this important nutrient. In addition, mowing without the catcher will reduce mowing time.
You should remove clippings under some circumstances. If you observe “clumps” of clippings on the lawn after mowing they should be removed. This occurs when the lawn grows too long between mowing, and it is common during periods of high rainfall and in early spring. Clumps of clippings repeatedly left on your lawn will lead to lawn deterioration.
· BLADE SHARPNESS: Mower blades should be sharpened professionally at least once per year. Between professional sharpening, touch-up the blade yourself with a file every month or two. A dull blade will tear the grass, not cut it, making your lawn appear brown after mowing.