Lawn mowing may sound simple and easy for most of you. When it comes to mowing, people believe that you just need to start a mower and go through your lawn a couple of times. But, that’s not enough to groom a lawn that is drought tolerant and block out weeds.
If you are not experienced in lawn mowing, then you may face problems like uneven cut, step cut, streaking, scalping, and stingers. If you find sharp left on the surface of the lawn then it is more commonly known as stepped cutting. In the case of streaking, you will find thin strips of uncut grass left by the mower. You can also find wavy troughs after mowing that is an uneven cut. Another common problem like scalping means the mowers deck strikes the ground. Last but not least you may face problems like stingers where you will find patches left behind by the mowers.
How do you overcome these problems and give your lawn the most aesthetic look for your residence? To find more about lawn mowing art, let’s take a look at some of the tricks no one ever told you about.
1. Sharpen Mower’s Blade
To get the best results from each mowing, you must sharpen your mower’s blade. A dull blade can create jagged, uneven edges, and tear grass badly. This will give the pests a chance to invade your lawn and spread diseases. Furthermore, it can pile brown or whitish hue on your lawn quickly.
Make sure you sharpen the mower’s blade at least a couple of times during spring, summer, and monsoon. Sharp cuttings do not allow weeds to grow and get over the grasses. So, your lawn looks healthy and fresh. Make sure to avoid mowing over stones that often reduce the sharpness of the blade.
2. Cautions on Hills
It is better not to mow straight up and down the steep yards or hills. That can potentially slip the mower and it may injure you badly. While Mowing on a hill or slope you need to follow a different strategy. Most experts believe you should mow side to side on hill or slope areas.
Other than that, do not rush while mowing on slopes. Make sure you have a good grip on your mower and run it slow and safe to cover steep areas.
3. Mow in Shade Areas
Mowing can create enormous stresses on the grasses of your lawn. If you mow in the daytime during summer then the grass will lose moisture that can be difficult to balance. Besides, if you mow in the shade areas then grass loses less moisture. So, they survive better and you don’t have to see patches of dead grass all over your lawn.
What happens if your lawn does not have enough shades from the surrounding. In that case, it is better to mow in the early morning or late afternoon. It is advisable to spray your lawn with water after mowing so that grass can absorb it for survival.
4. Adjust Mowers Height
Adjust mower height to cut the grass in the standard. If it is cut too deep it can risk your grass and long height does not keep the lawn in good shape. As per the Experts, cutting grass to one-third of the blade is the standard.
If you keep grass taller to that limit, then it will develop deep roots to withstand drought challenges. Also, it prevents weeds from sprouting in the middle of the grasses. So, the equation is simple- you need to cut it frequently but don’t cut too deep or leave it too tall. Also, lower the cutting deck for the last cut of autumn. That will help prevent snow molding on grasses in winter.
5. Frequency Of Lawn Mowing
The frequency of lawn mowing depends on desired length and also growth rates of grass in your lawn. Grass grows better in the spring and summer seasons. Mowing once a week during a fast-growing period is enough to keep your lawn in good condition.
Spring lawn feed is a vital component of lawn care, providing essential nutrients to kickstart growth after the winter months. Formulated specifically for grass needs during the spring season, this feed contains a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to promote healthy root development, vibrant color, and lush growth. By applying spring lawn feed early in the season, typically around March or April, homeowners can help their lawns recover from winter dormancy and prepare for the demands of the upcoming growing season. With regular applications, spring lawn feed ensures a thick, resilient turf that withstands stress and thrives throughout the year.
In a slow-growing period like autumn, you can reduce the frequency of mowing. Mowing twice or thrice a month would do better for your lawn. In winter, grasses are clogged with heavy moisture and snow. So, trimming under such conditions is not beneficial at all.
6. Grasscycling
Grasscycling is nothing but leaving grass clippings on your lawn. These leftover grass clippings can provide one-third of the fertilizer needed for your lawn. It also helps you to save both money and time as you don’t need to buy waste bags and collect clipping after mowing.
For better grasscycling, you can try mulching blades over regular blades to cut grass into small pieces. That will help to decompose it quickly. Make sure to spread the clippings evenly all over the lawn or else, only a portion of grass will get the fertilizer’s nutrients. Grasscycling also helps to retain moisture in hot summer days.
7. Change Mowing Pattern
Sometimes people overlook the fact of mowing the same pattern and direction. That can possibly impact the soil and create ruts in your lawn. The groove areas can risk some grasses and weeds that thrive better in such conditions.
Mowing not only keeps your lawn clean but also an opportunity to present a lawn with different outlooks. By changing patterns you can make your lawn more attractive in your residence.
8. Mowing New Grasses in Lawn
Newly germinated grass needs at least three to four weeks to get established in the ground. Also, their roots are not deep enough, besides you will find moist soils in newly born grass areas. Do not mow them too soon or else they won’t survive.
Keep patience and let the new grass grow at least one inches in height before you mow. Make sure you water new grasses to help them survive in the scorching heat of summer.
9. Other Tips
Other than these above-listed tips you can follow some more tips to help lawn mowing smooth.. These are-
- Stop refueling a hot engine
- It is better not to carry passengers in a riding mower
- Clean debris after mowing
- Do not remove any chutes or safety attachments
- Keep children and pets away while mowing
- Read all the manufacturer’s instructions before you start your mower
Final Verdict
Lawn mowing is no rocket science but if you are not cautious, you can damage your lawn without knowing it. It is important to know the basics of keeping your lawn safe and sound. A clean and fresh lawn is a treasure to your residence. Follow the tips and make it count big time.