Mowing has a major influence on the turf density, uniformity and aesthetic quality of your lawn.
Your lawn can be mowed frequently, provided no more than one-third of the grass blade is removed in a single cut. Mow high leaving your grass at a height of 2 ½” – 3” if possible. Grass this height helps the soil maintain its moisture better and encourages the development of a deep, extensive root system. Lower mowing on the other hand produces a shallow root system. Shallow grass roots cannot take up enough water and nutrients, making the lawn susceptible to drought stress. Low mowing also encourages broadleaf weed invasion and invasion from grassy weeds such as creeping bentgrass and annual blue-grass. It is best to mow a lawn when the leaves are dry as dry grass cuts cleanly, and clippings distribute more evenly.
Leave clippings on the lawn. If they are excessively thick (0.5 cms or more), rake them up to avoid smothering the grass. Otherwise, clippings contain nutrients and water, breakdown rapidly and do not contribute significantly to thatch. You can reduce the amount of fertilizer you use (especially nitrogen) by 20%-35% by leaving them on the lawn!
All mower blades should be sharpened in the Spring and thereafter regularly sharpened to ensure a good quality cut. Grass recovers more quickly and easily from a clean cut than when it is torn. Also, the use of a mulching-type of mower is recommended as it recycles grass clippings.
