How High Should You Mow Your Lawn?

Mowing seems simple, but how you do it affects how thick and healthy your lawn looks. Here are a few basics.

Don't cut too short

Taller grass shades the soil, helps the lawn hold moisture and keeps weeds from taking over. For most cool-season lawns, a mowing height of about three inches is a good starting point.

The one-third rule

Try not to remove more than about one third of the grass blade at a time. If the lawn gets too tall, bring it down in steps instead of all at once.

How often?

Mow based on how fast the grass is growing, not on a fixed day. In spring, that may mean weekly or more. In hot, dry weather, the lawn grows slower and needs less.

Common mistakes

• Mowing wet grass, which clumps and cuts unevenly.
• Dull blades, which tear grass and leave brown tips.
• Cutting the same direction every time.
• Bagging or blowing clippings onto the street.

If you'd like a regular mowing schedule handled for you, get a free estimate.

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