Mowing Tips

In order to maintain a quality healthy lawn it is essential to mow correctly and on a regular basis.

The first thing to remember is that it is the blade of the lawnmower that does the work. It is advisable to have the blade sharpened at least every year and if possible twice per year. Mowing with a dull blade will “rip” the grass and this will cause the tips of the grass to bruise and turn brown, giving the lawn a brownish tinge.

The mowing season normally starts in March. It is important not to cut too much off the grass at this time. Try to remove no more than one quarter to one third of the grass length initially, otherwise the grass will become stressed. A little and often approach is better during the early months of the year. In Spring you should be mowing to a height of at least one and a half inches on normal domestic lawns.

As we move into Summer and the temperatures increase the growth of your lawn will slow down. Mow as needed but again be careful not to remove more than one third of the grass leaf at any time. If temperatures become very high it may be necessary to reduce the frequency of mowing. During the Summer months you should be mowing to a height of two inches on normal domestic lawns.

During Autumn the growth rate will increase. Towards the end of Autumn mow to a cutting height to at least one and a half inches.  Mowing can continue into the Winter months as needed. If mowing is required try to ensure that it is done when the grass is dry.

Throughout the year try to resist the temptation to cut the lawn too short, it is sometimes tempting to cut a domestic lawn as short as those seen on golf courses but resist this temptation at all costs. The grasses used on golf greens are specialist cultivars that can thrive whilst cut short. Cutting a domestic lawn too short provides an ideal environment for lawn weeds and can lead to the development of lawn moss.

Finally, avoid mowing when your grass is wet, this will tend to rip the grass as opposed to cutting it.

Lawnscience supports the RHS by annual charitable donations