Mowing

Mow High- Set the blade on your mower so that you keep the grass at a height of 3 to 4 inches, especially during the heat of summer.  This is usually either the top setting or second to top setting on your mower.  This shades the soil and prevents both excess drying and evaporation, reducing the need for watering.  This practice also makes your roots dive deeper into the soil making your grass healthier and more water efficient.  Mow On A Regular Basis- It is recommended to mow your lawn often so you are taking no more than one-third of the blade of grass off every time you mow.  Mulch- Mulching when you mow can be beneficial because it can return many nutrients and moisture to your lawn.  If mulching is going to leave piles or strips of dead grass on your lawn it is best to bag. Plan For Snow- Mowing your lawn short on your last mowing of the year (1.5-2 inches) is also recommended for resistance to disease and to prevent mold problems the following spring.  If you notice you have snow mold in the spring, the easiest fix is to lightly rake the grass to get air underneath it which will stop the molds growth and eliminate the problem. Maintenance Your Mower- Sharpen your mower blades often for a nice, clean cut each time you mow your lawn.  If you notice after mowing that all of the tips of your grass are brown and frayed, it is time to sharpen your blades.  Don’t Get Stuck In A Rut- Alternate mowing patterns on your lawn from angles to straight lines to prevent directional matting of grass and tire damage to your lawn.  Not only is rotating patterns good for your lawn, it also gives it that professionally manicured and groomed appearance. Easy On The Edges- Be careful when trimming the edges of your lawn with a string trimmer.  Try to avoid trimming the lawn too short because it weakens the edges and allows weeds to take over easily.  If you have a vertical blade edger this is usually the best method to use along sidewalks, curbs, and driveways, because it leaves the grass long while providing a nice maintained appearance.