Better grass starts with better mowing. How to get your lawn in tip-top shape this spring
Mowing is simple. Maintaining your yard so it looks like it’s the 18th fairway is a different story.
But if the ‘so-good-you-could-eat-off-of-it’ look sounds like too much work for you, you can still aim for that neighborhood “Lawn of the Month” award with only a little bit of extra effort.
It all starts with mowing, because better mowing equals better grass. Watch this short video for a few simple tips:
Top Ten
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Sharpen or replace blades every season
Without sharp blades, your cuts are more likely to leave jagged edges which can increase the chance of disease and pests.
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Wait 3-4 weeks before mowing freshly seeded grass
This gives it time to get established after germination. Plus, any new blades of grass are more easily damaged by foot or mower traffic.
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Mow when your grass is dry
If the grass is dry, the blades will be standing upright and are less likely to clump when cut.
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Remove only about 1/3 of the grass height per cut
Repeated close mowing is more likely to lead to a brown lawn, increase vulnerability to pests and disease, allow sunlight to reach weeds, and make it harder for the grass to produce its own food through photosynthesis.
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Discharge clippings toward the side you have already cut
Leaving the clippings on top of the grass you’ve already cut creates instant fertilizer.
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Turn clippings into fertilizer with mulching blades
Mulching blades help chop up the grass you’re leaving behind as fertilizer so it doesn’t lay in thick clumps or rows, which could harm your lawn.
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Change your mowing pattern each time you mow
Over time, grass will lean in the direction you mow. If you change direction every time, it will help the grass grow straight up versus leaning in one direction.
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Cut straighter lines by keeping your eyes 10 feet ahead
It helps if you start by mowing parallel to a straight sidewalk or driveway.
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Create a checkerboard pattern with perpendicular passes
Don’t forget – always clear your yard of debris before mowing, and wear appropriate shoes, clothing and safety gear. Not sure if you need a riding mower or a push mower? Lowe’s can help!