Proper mowing can mean the difference between a nice looking lawn and a healthy one. There are a few simple decisions to make when mowing that make a difference in your lawn.
How high to mow?
Grass generally performs best when mowed between its recommended mowing heights.
- Follow the 1/3 rule. Never cut off more than 1/3 of the length of the grass blades in a single mowing. If lawn growth gets ahead of you, mow it at a higher length, then lower blade and mow again a few days later.
Recommended mowing heights by grass type:
| Grass |
Minimum Height |
Maximum Height |
| Fine Fescue |
1½" |
2½" |
| Kentucky Bluegrass |
1½" |
2½" |
| Ryegrass |
1½" |
2½" |
| Tall Fescue |
2" |
4" |
| Common Bermudagrass |
1½" |
2" |
| Buffalograss |
2" |
3" |
| Zoysiagrass |
¾" |
2" |
| Hybrid Bermudagrass |
¾" |
1¼" |
How often to mow?
Once a week is usually sufficient. In spring, when grass is growing more rapidly, mowing twice a week may be necessary to avoid removing more than 1/3 the length of the grass blades. Also, when mulching the lawn it is necessary to mow more frequently to reduce the size of clippings.
Blade sharpness:
Keep mower blade sharp. Mowing with a dull blade tears the ends of grass blades, leaving ragged ends which later turn brown, giving the lawn a dried-out look. Such grass blade damage also encourages the spread of unwanted disease.
Other tips:
Mow in different directions (diagonal, horizontal, vertical patterns) each time you mow to prevent wheel ruts in your lawn.
Avoid mowing a wet lawn, as this can lead to uneven cuts and can invite disease into your lawn.
Mowing A New Lawn:
Newly planted lawns are more delicate than established ones, and you need to be more careful when mowing them. The soil is soft and the young grass plants usually are not deeply rooted by the first mowing. The good news is that mowing encourages plants to spread and form a thicker lawn, especially when you've planted plugs or sprigs.