How To Mow Your Lawn Correctly

Proper mowing will have a tremendous effect on the appearance of your lawn. Height of cut, frequency of cut, and type of mower used are all important factors to consider when mowing a lawn. For the best appearance, turf should be maintained at its proper height.

The General Rule

Your turf should be mowed often enough that you are not removing more than 1/4 to 1/3  of the plant material. Example: If you are keeping your Bermuda grass at 1″, it will need to be cut at or before it reaches 1-1/2″. Removal of too much of the leaf blade can shock the turf.

In fact, the most damaging mowing practice is a sudden reduction in mowing height. This will upset the balance between the grass, leaves, and roots. It can also give a scalped appearance and usually injures the turf. If the turf becomes too tall between mowings, gradually reduce the height until the recommended height is reached.

Drought / Heat Stress

During stressful periods, such as drought or severe heat, it is a good idea to raise the cutting height slightly. For example, this is especially helpful in Tall Fescue in the summer months because it will reduce the stress on the turf by shading the root system from the damaging heat. Once the stress is passed (ex.: when temperatures drop as summer fades into autumn) lower the cutting height gradually. Turf in shaded areas should be cut higher than normal for better results. Raising the mowing height of warm-season grasses as Fall approaches will help the turf survive the winter months.

If you have any questions about mowing please ask your Lawn Technician or call our office and we will be glad to help.

Recommended Mowing Heights

Cool Season Turf 

Tall Fescue
3" to 4"

Warm Season Turf

Bermuda Grass
1" to 1.5"

Zoysia Grass
1" to 1.5"

 In partial shade, mow zoysiagrass at 2 to 2½ inches.

St. Augustine
2.5" to 4"

In partial shade, St. Augustine performs better mowed at 3" to 4" in height.