Guidelines for Mowing Lawns Properly
Piles of clippings and weed invasion indicate this lawn is mowed improperly.
Mowing has a major impact on lawn appearance and health, yet is often overlooked in terms of importance. Homeowners need to follow a few simple guidelines to assure lawns are being mowed properly.
One very common mistake is mowing lawns too short. For most lawns, a mowing height between 2 to 3 inches is suggested; the upper range is best for summer. Lawns mowed at higher heights tend to have deeper roots, less weed problems, and look much better. Mowing too close invites problems such as weed invasions. Simply raising the mowing height can have a major impact on the quality of many home lawns. A height of 2 inches is fine when grasses are rapidly growing, but the height should be raised as growth slows, stress increases, and when the lawn is in shade. The first mowing before green-up could be slightly lower than normal.
Lawns should be mowed according to the rate of grass growth; remember not to remove more than one-third of the grass leaf in any one cutting. Mowing on a regular basis as the lawn needs it is essential. Don't mow when the grass is wet.
Another issue related to mowing is whether clippings should be collected. As long as the lawn is mowed on a regular basis and the clippings readily filter back down into the lawn, clippings do not need to be collected. Returned in this manner, clippings readily decompose (contain 75 - 80 percent water) and do not cause thatch. Clippings also recycle nutrients, in particular nitrogen, so less fertilizer is needed.
Selecting a mower can involve a number of factors, many being personal preference. Rotary mowers are the most widely used type on home lawns. Both conventional rotary mowers with bag attachments and mulching mowers are readily available for homeowners. A study at the University of Illinois showed mulching mowers did not provide any additional benefit over conventional rotary mowers returning clippings assuming proper mowing frequency and lawn fertilizing was followed. Regardless of the type of mower, blades need to be kept sharp.
Mow in the direction that is safest. Periodically change directions if desired, although mowing the same direction each time should not be a problem on taller turf typical of home lawns. The first and last mowing of the year should be at a height of about 2 inches; avoid scalping in spring and allowing the grass to remain excessively high at the end of fall.
