The Basics to Mowing Your Lawn

1. Mow Regularly

One of the most important aspects of lawn care is mowing regularly. Aim to mow your lawn once a week (or as needed) during the growing season. Regular mowing helps to keep your grass healthy and promotes even growth.

A good rule of thumb is to follow “The ⅓ Rule” - Simply put, this means that no more than ⅓ of the grass blade will be taken off in a single mow.  

While this isn’t always achievable, the frequency in which you need to mow will change throughout based on this rule as growth habits change.  

2. Set the Right Mowing Height

The height at which you mow your lawn can have a big impact on its health. For most grass types, a mowing height of around 2.5 to 3.5 inches is ideal. Adjust your mower height accordingly to ensure you're not cutting your grass too short.

3. Maintain Your Mower

A well-maintained mower is essential for a healthy lawn. Keep your mower blades sharp and balanced to ensure a clean cut. Dull blades can tear grass, leading to a dull appearance and increased susceptibility to disease.

To sharpen your blades, you can do this yourself using a flap disk and/or proper equipment - Or, have your blades taken into get sharped at a local authorized dealer.  

When mowing in normal conditions, a good rule of thumb to follow is to sharpen your blades with every 10-20 hours of mowing.  

4. Change Your Mowing Pattern

Changing your mowing pattern regularly can help prevent soil compaction and promote even growth. Instead of mowing in the same direction every time, try mowing horizontally one week and vertically the next.

Added bonus, this will help create some cool patterns in your lawn leaving your neighbors jealous! 

5. Leave Grass Clippings on the Lawn (Where Possible)

Grass clippings can provide valuable nutrients for your lawn and help retain moisture. Consider leaving them on the lawn instead of bagging them. This process, known as grasscycling, can save you time and effort while benefiting your lawn.

Note: There will be mows where this is not ideal.  If you’re mowing your lawn and have to break “The ⅓ Rule”, it is best to bag these clippings to avoid any damage from the clippings sitting on the turf.  

6. Avoid Mowing When Wet

Mowing wet grass can lead to an uneven cut and increase the risk of lawn diseases. Wait until your lawn is dry before mowing to achieve the best results.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your lawn remains healthy and beautiful throughout the year. With a little bit of effort and the right approach to lawn care, you can enjoy a lush, green lawn that you can be proud of.