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Wednesday, 12 April 2023
What is the ideal height for mowing the lawn?

What is the ideal height for mowing the lawn?

A beautiful lawn requires regular and effective maintenance. In order to be satisfied with a healthy, green lawn that makes all the neighbors envious, you need to master proper mowing techniques. This lawn mowing guide contains all the important details you need to know about mowing heights and times for optimal growth of your lawn.

Why should you not mow short?

Mowing too short can damage your lawn and make it more vulnerable to disease and pests. When you cut the grass too short, you remove a significant portion of the blade, which can weaken the plant and make it more vulnerable to stress. Cutting too short exposes the soil to the sun, which promotes evaporation and prevents the grass from retaining moisture.

This can cause your lawn to become dry and brown, especially in times of drought. To maintain a healthy lawn, it is important to mow at the proper height for the type of grass and avoid cutting more than one third of the blade at a time.

Is it better to cut the grass short or long?

How high should you cut the lawn during the summer?

The recommended mowing height during the summer months is about 3 inches. This allows for a healthy balance between grass blade length and root system, which promotes healthy growth and reduces the need for watering. Cutting too short can weaken the root system, making the lawn more susceptible to pests and disease.

On the other hand, cutting the grass too high can also be problematic, as it can create a breeding ground for pests and make it difficult to maintain a neat and tidy appearance. Ultimately, the ideal height for your lawn depends on a variety of factors, including grass type, weather conditions and personal preference.

What height should my grass be?

How high should you cut the lawn during the fall?

In the fall, it is recommended to cut the lawn to a height of about 2 to 2 ½ inches. This is because grass grows more slowly in the cooler months, and a shorter cut can expose the roots to cold temperatures and leave them vulnerable to damage.

A slightly longer cut will keep the grass healthy and strong during the winter months. It is also important to avoid cutting the grass too short at any time of the year, as this can damage the grass and make it more susceptible to disease and pests.

How do I measure the height of the grass?

To manually measure the cutting height of your lawn, simply place the mower on a solid surface such as a sidewalk to get a clear mark. You can then open the deck of the mower, which is used to protect the cutting edges, to measure

the distance between the ground and the cutting blades. You can use a tape measure, a ruler or a piece of wood to mark the calculated distance.


Some lawn mowers have advanced settings with number or letter coding. Check your mower's manual to understand what these numbers mean, so you know what height of cut they designate. Another simple method is to simply run the mower and then measure the height of the grass.

Sustainable lawn maintenance tips that you should know

How do I set the cutting height?

To adjust the cutting height, you must first locate the adjustment levers on either side of the mower. Move the levers up or down to adjust the height. It is important to adjust the height gradually and test the mower after each adjustment to make sure it is not cutting too low or too high.

Make sure the mower is turned off and the blades are not rotating before making any adjustments. It is also recommended that the cutting height be adjusted according to the season and condition of the lawn. A higher cutting height is recommended during hot, dry weather, while a lower cutting height is recommended during cooler months.

Why and when you should aerate your lawn?

When should I mow my lawn, so it doesn't grow back too quickly?

The first mowing should be done in the spring, ideally in March, after winter. In order to maintain a good height of the lawn, it is recommended to cut about a third of the length to avoid damaging the grass. The period between March and October requires regular lawn maintenance.

Ideally, you should mow your lawn regularly for about seven to ten days in the spring. This will ensure a healthy lawn, optimal growth and effective prevention of weeds. When summer begins, you can space the mowing about two weeks apart, as growth is slower during hot weather.

Be aware that the length and timing of mowing depend on :

  • Lawn use. The more the lawn is trampled and worn, the longer the grass should be to avoid uprooting;
  • Humidity as it decreases the efficiency of mowing;
  • The quality of the blade, as it may tear the grass if it is not well sharpened.

How to tell what's wrong with my lawn?

How do I mow my lawn properly?

Lawn mowing is an important step in maintaining your lawn. It can be a daunting task, but understanding and mastering the right technique can make it a pleasurable activity and ensure a beautiful lawn all year round.

Here are some tips to help you mow your lawn properly:

  • The choice of a lawn mower is essential and must be adapted to the land you have and to your budget. Choose, among the various models of lawn mowers, the one that is practical and that allows you to make an adequate grass cut according to the type of lawn you have.
  • Depending on the weather conditions in your area, mow your lawn as soon as the weather is good to facilitate future maintenance in the spring.
  • Lawn mowing should be a regular practice during the spring to ensure a long-lasting, healthy
    lawn throughout the year.
  • The height of the cut varies according to the season to protect the grass from dryness during the summer and from humidity during the winter.
  • Always start with the main part of the lawn and work your way to the edges where you can use a trimmer. If your lawn is on a slope, start with the straight lines from side to side.
  • Trampling of the unmowed areas of your lawn should be avoided so as not to crush the grass that can no longer be cut.
  • The use of a mulching mower is effective for mowing and fertilizing at the same time, as the clippings are effective fertilizers and provide the lawn with the nutrients it needs.

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