Mowing height

Proper Mowing Equal's Quality Turf

Mowing frequency is dictated by how fast the grass grows. In most circumstances one time per week is adequate but occasionally more frequent mowing may be necessary. Remember never to remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade at each mowing. The key here is not to fall behind on your mowing schedule.

WARM SEASON TURF

If you didn't scalp this spring you will have poor quality turf this year. Keep your warm season turf cut at 1 ½ " to 2 ½ ". There are exceptions when you may be forced to mow higher or it is expedient to do so. If you have an excessively bumpy lawn and the mower is scuffing the ground then you may have to mow higher until you can level the ground. As the summer temperatures climb, mowing the turf may cause firing at the two and one-half inch height. Firing is that burned or yellowed look that can appear after mowing. This is caused by removing too much grass blade at one time and thrusting the turf into severe desiccation and water loss.

Closely mown warm season turf requires an increased mowing schedule during periods of heavy, rapid growth if it is to be maintained at a very short height.

FESCUE TURF

Do not stress the turf by cutting it too short. Maintain your cutting height at 2½" - 3". Do not cut the turf when wet if at all possible. If you need to mow the turf when wet or if you prefer to mow without a bag (which is acceptable) then blow off the resulting clippings to prevent them from clumping up on the turf. These wads of clippings, if left to rot, can kill spots in your turf and encourage disease.

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