Some people just hate to get the lawn mower
out. The general rule to follow is not to cut more than one third of
the leaf surface off at once. By mowing the lawn once a week you will
usually comply with this guideline. However, at times of peak growth
you may need to cut every four or five days.
How High, How Short?
There is no one mowing height for all grasses.
But each has its own optimal range. If they are routinely cut lower
than that, they will not be as healthy and may begin to thin out and
die. If your lawn is a mix-ture of grasses (most are), you will need
to average out the height. It is better to cut some of it too tall than
to scalp portions of your lawn.
The chances are that you cut your lawn too short.
Here are some recommended heights.
| Bahia |
2-3 inches |
| Common Bermuda Grass |
1-2 inches |
| Hybrid Bermuda Grass |
1 inch |
| Centipede Grass |
1 1/2-2 inches |
| Fine Fescues |
1 1/2-2 1/2 inches |
| Tall Fescue |
2 1/2-3 1/2 inches |
| Kentucky Bluegrass |
2-2 1/2 inches |
| St. Augustine |
1 1/2-2 1/2 inches |
| Zoysia |
1-2 inches |
Ranges are given because, frankly, experts do not
agree on a best height. Begin with the above heights, then observe how
your lawn is doing and adjust ac-cording to your lawn’s specific needs.
The mowing height should be increased by one-half inch for shady
areas and immediately follow-ing a weakening of the lawn due to insect
or disease injury or from high traffic.
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