One of the questions that homeowners ask time and time again is how often to mow a lawn. The answer to that can actually vary depending on the weather, the grass type, and the lawn care program.
Proper Mowing Practices
When mowing, a good rule of thumb is to never remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade. Cutting more than 1/3 of the blade off can stress the plant by reducing root growth that is essential for summer drought months. Unfortunately, during the spring rains, this means that the grass may need mowed every 3-4 days depending on how quickly it is growing.
Grass Type Affects Mowing Practices
Different grass types grow at different times during the year and should be cut at different recommended heights. Fescue, which is a cool season grass, will grow in the spring and the fall but will be dormant during the summer and winter. When there are frequent spring rains, a fescue lawn will need more mowing sometimes as much as a couple times per week. Zoysia or Bermuda are warm season grasses and will grow more rapidly during the late spring and summer months.
Lawn Care Affects Mowing Practices
When following the proper lawn care program, different nutrients are applied to the lawn, including nitrogen. Nitrogen helps the lawn grow and may result in the lawn needing more frequent mowing. Proper water schedules also affect the rate the grass grows and the amount of mowing required. The more water a lawn receives, without being excessive, the quicker that lawn will grow.
Sum it up
Following the proper mowing schedule and mowing the lawn as needed depending on the weather conditions, mowing the lawn with sharp mower blades, and following the proper lawn care program will greatly benefit the health and appearance of the lawn.
It is always a good idea to consult with a lawn care professional and ask any questions you may have. Look around, ask friends or family, and research companies on the Better Business Bureau to find a company that you can trust.