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Some people just hate to get the lawn mower out. The general rule to follow is not to cut more than one third of the leaf surface off at once. By mowing the lawn once a week you will usually comply with this guideline. However, at times of peak growth you may need to cut every four or five days.
How High, How Short?
There is no one mowing height for all grasses. But each has its own optimal range. If they are routinely cut lower than that, they will not be as healthy and may begin to thin out and die. If your lawn is a mixture of grasses (most are), you will need to average out the height. It is better to cut some of it too tall than to scalp portions of your lawn.
The chances are that you cut your lawn too short.
Here are some recommended heights:
Types |
Height |
Bahia |
2-3 inches |
Common Bermuda Grass |
1-2 inches |
Hybrid Bermuda Grass |
1 inch |
Centipede Grass |
1 1/2-2 inches |
Fine Fescue |
1 1/2-2 1/2 inches |
Tall Fescue |
2 1/2-3 1/2 inches |
Kentucky Bluegrass |
2-2 1/2 inches |
St. Augustine |
1 1/2-2 1/2 inches |
Zoysia |
1-2 inches |
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Ranges are given because, frankly, experts do not agree on a best height. Begin with the above heights, then observe how your lawn is doing and adjust ac-cording to your lawn's specific needs.
Note: The mowing height should be increased by one-half inch for shady areas and immediately following a weakening of the lawn due to insect or disease injury or from high traffic.
Mowing Tips
- Do not mow wet grass. The ideal time to mow is when the grass is dry, but the weather is not excessively hot.
 The optimal height for grass is 2-1/2 to 3 inches. Mow at the maximum height during the summer and at the minimum height at the end of the mowing season. - Change mowing patterns periodically to ensure your grass grows upright.
- Mow often enough not to cut more than one third of the blade of grass off.
Sharpening Blades
- To prevent damage to your lawn or mower, check your mower's blade every two weeks for damage or dullness during mowing season.
- Disconnect spark plug wire.
- Turn mower carburetor side up and remove blade.
- Clamp blade in a vise.
- Use a flat mill file to file toward the sharp edge.
- Reinstall blade and reconnect spark plug wire.
For more information go to www.lawncarebook.com to download your FREE copy of the complete book, "Secrets to a Great Lawn" (a $6.95 value) |
