Mowing Tips

• Mowing is necessary for a quality turfgrass. Mow frequently and at the proper height. The frequency and height of cut depend on the type of turfgrass, fertilization program, and the amount of rainfall.
• Don't cut your grass too short, this is especially true for cool season grasses. Higher heights encourage a deeper root system, makes the lawn fuller and healthier, and discourages weeds like crabgrass.
• It is a mistake to allow the turf to become overgrown before mowing; this stresses the grass by removing too much of the foliage at one time. If the grass gets too tall, break it down into several mowings to get caught up with 3 or so days between cuttings. Avoid mowing when the grass is wet.
• Don't remove any more than 1/3 of the grass leaf at any one cutting. When you do this it is not necessary to remove clippings for the health of the lawn.  Clippings are an excellent source of slow-release nutrients to the turf. They will quickly decompose and add nutrients back into the soil. Grass clippings do not add to thatch buildup because they are made up of about 75% water. If you remove clippings for aesthetic purposes, place them in a compost pile rather than the trash.
• If possible, mow your lawn in a different direction with each mowing, especially with lawns of shorter grass types. This will help grass blades will grow more erect and allow a more even cut.
• Sharpen the blades several times during mowing season and keep several blades around so you'll always have a sharp one on hand.
• Don't forget to change your mower's oil at least once during the mowing season.
•  You should have drained your gas tank in the fall. If you didn't, use a fuel stabilizer, don't use that old gas in the spring, as it can cause several problems.