Mowing

A lawn should be mowed as soon as it reaches regular mowing height. The mower blade(s) should be sharp because a dull blade might rip young seedlings out of the soil. Then regular mowing, usually weekly, during the growing season is the main task in maintaining a lawn. It is a good idea to vary the mowing pattern. We mow in a north-south pattern one week and then a east-west pattern the next week. This prevents ruts from running the mower wheels in the same track each time. It also results in a healthier better looking lawn.  Mowing height is measured from the mower blade to the ground with the mower sitting on a flat surface. Mowing height for most grasses is 3 inches. For the summer, a mowing height of 3 to 4 inches will reduce water and fertilizer needs. Mowing at 3 inches during the rainy season reduces disease problems. Grass should be mowed as soon as it reaches one and a half times mowing height so only one third of the grass height it mowed off. If grass is allowed to get tall, then cut short, the soft, lush base of the grass will be exposed to hot sun and it will burn and turn brown. For tall grass, set the mowing height higher, then, a few days later, mow the lawn again at the regular height. We recommend mulching the clippings back into the lawn to build up the soil and requires less fertilizer.