A well-maintained and fertilized lawn can be one of the best ways to increase your home’s curb appeal. In fact, the way you take care of your lawn says a lot about you. Wondering how to give your lawn that extra oomph factor? Well, with a combination of soil additives, fertilizers, tender, loving care, you can change your lawn from scraggly to golf-course green in one season. But one of the most important aspects of taking your lawn to the next level is making sure you cut it to the ideal length. Read on to find out how to achieve the perfect cutting height for your lawn.

What Is the Best Height for Cutting Grass?

Every variety of grass has an ideal cutting height. A common mistake people make with their lawn is thinking they have to mow all the time and stop the grass from getting too tall. A cut that is robbing the grass of its food source: grass blades. Taller grass also shades the ground, slowing weed growth and water loss from the soil.

The ideal length of your lawn depends on your climate, but most experts agree you should keep your grass between 2 1/2 inches to three inches long, with the last cut of the season remaining the same.

Does the Type of Grass Impact Cutting Height?

Most grass cutting heights are between 2-3 inches in length, according to Pennington‘s full list. This stands to be true for most common grass types that are found in our lawns. However, there are always some exceptions.

Grass that should be cut at an inch height or less are Bermuda grass and Zoysia, which are both warm-season grasses that thrive at temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees. These types of grass also need some extra care due to their delicate nature.

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How Do You Measure the Height of Grass?

You can use a tape measure to measure your lawn mower’s base height while adjusting the wheels on a flat surface, like a walkway. It is important to know when to adjust lawn mower blades, how to keep them sharp for clean cutting and to avoid pulling the grass.

lawn mower cutting grass
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How Do You Change Height on a Mower?

How to Change your mower’s cutting height will depend on the type of lawn mower you have, so make sure to check your owner’s manual.

Compact lawn mowers usually have a setting option at the back, making the change easy, while most mainstream lawn mower cut heights are controlled by lowering or raising the wheels with a lever located next to each wheel. Make sure each wheel is set to the same height on either side of the lawn mower.

What Happens if You Cut Grass Too Short?

Cutting grass too short can damage the soil and the lawn mower itself. Short grass will not do as good of a job blocking the sun, which can dry out the soil and create dead patches. This will slowly kill your garden. It also becomes at risk for fungus growth, pests, weeds and weakens root development. The right height helps maintain a healthy, green lawn and promotes the overall aesthetic of your garden.

Mowing Height for Each Season

When it comes to lawn mowing, adjusting the height of your mower is essential. This height requirement also changes according to the weather, climate and season. That is a well-kept secret to a lush and green lawn.

When it comes to spring and fall, it’s very important to cut the grass to about 3 inches. However, you need to give some shade and protection to the soil, so it’s alright to increase the length to 3.5 inches. Remember to reduce the length during the winter to avoid fungal growth.

When Should You Stop Cutting Grass Seasonally?

There is no universal date, time or standard rule for when you should stop mowing your yard for the year. This is because a lot of things differ depending on where you live and the season. How long your grass will continue to grow in the colder months will depend on a lot of variables, especially if you live in a particularly hot or cold region of the country. However, mowing your lawn well into the fall is important, so as long as your grass keeps growing, keep cutting it. Don’t forget to add a good amount of fertilizer and enough moisture to keep it healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cutting Grass

When it comes to lawn mowing, many people tend to make these common mistakes, which could ruin your lawn. .

  • Cutting the grass too much or scalping
  • Mowing grass with dull blades
  • Mowing in the same pattern
  • Cutting or mowing wet grass
  • Ignoring the one-third rule
  • Not changing the grass’ height according to the season

FAQ

Is it better to mow grass when it’s wet or dry?

Never cut the grass when it’s wet. This can be a hazard to your lawn. Always mow when the grass is properly dry and then proceed to water the lawn.

Mowing when your grass is wet can cause unexpected gaps and clumps, leaving your grass vulnerable. It also causes uneven cutting, ruining the look of your lawn. It can also harm your lawn mower by causing clogs.

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