If you want a lush, green lawn, maintaining your lawn through proper mowing is the key to your success. Here are some tips to help you:
First of all, it is important to understand how to cut the grass correctly. Make sure to always use a higher setting, especially during the hot summer months. Never cut grass too low, as this can cause scalp, which is the number one reason grass grows unevenly.
Never remove too much grass when mowing; This is another big mistake that many people make. Never cut more than a third of the length of the grass blades. However, if you think your lawn is growing fast and cutting 1/3 of the blade doesn’t seem to have the desired effect, you can wait a few days and then mow again. Sometimes you need to mow your lawn twice a week to keep your lawn looking beautiful.
It is also important to keep the cutting blades very sharp. Cutting the grass with a dull blade will rip the ends of the grass instead of cutting them. This creates ragged edges that tend to turn brown and make your lawn appear dry. You can also cause fungal problems and lawn diseases if you cut with a dull blade.
Always cut in different directions. For example, one week cut diagonally, the next week cut horizontally, and the next week cut in a vertical pattern. Changing the direction in which you mow is an effective method of mowing because it prevents blades of grass from tipping over your lawn.
Never make sharp turns when mowing. If you avoid turning the mower sharply, you will get better results. The easiest way to make a smooth turn is to use a walkway, patio, or driveway to turn the mower. Another option is to make header strips that rotate the mower at the end of each row upon reaching the header. Doing this will give you a nice even cut – the quickest twists always end up creating a bumpy look.
Do not cut the grass while it is still wet. If it has rained outside or the grass is damp from the morning dew, wait until the grass has completely dried and then mow it. Never mow in the early morning or after a rain. And of course, never mow after you’ve watered your lawn. This will only cause uneven cuts and encourage fungal growth.
When mowing a new lawn, you will need to be a little more careful. Wait until the blades have grown to about 1/3 taller than the recommended height to cut the type of grass you have planted. Mowing the lawn before the blades have reached a certain height will only put stress on the lawn. Use a light mower until the grass grows stronger. Use very sharp blades, not only to ensure a good cut, but because in young grass a dull blade will pull the leaves from the roots.