MOWING GUIDE
Mowing can significantly influence the overall quality and health of your lawn.
THE WHY & HOW
Mowing can significantly influence the overall quality and health of your lawn. Certain mowing mistakes, whether made by you or your professional mowing service, can adversely affect the appearance of your lawn. Below, you will find some of our essential tips and tricks to ensure that your mowing practices not only benefit your lawn but also prevent any unnecessary damage.
What’s the ideal cut height for your tall fescue lawn?
The key phrase in this question is "tall fescue." This particular type of turf, commonly used in the Richmond area, prefers to be cut at a taller height. Generally, we recommend maintaining your lawn between 3.5" and 4" tall. During the summer months, you might even consider going as high as 4.5", but keep in mind that cutting this high may require a commercial mower. We suggest setting your mower deck to its highest position throughout the growing season.
How often should you mow?
The mowing frequency for a tall fescue lawn in Richmond depends on the grass's growth rate, which is influenced by various factors like weather conditions and fertilization. As a general rule, it is recommended to mow your lawn at least once a week, ensuring you never remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade in a single mowing session. During the summer, when your lawn may experience stress from heat or drought, it becomes crucial to provide your lawn with some respite and only mow when necessary.
Why should you vary your mowing pattern?
Varying your mowing pattern is vital for tall fescue lawns to promote even growth and prevent soil compaction. Mowing in the same direction each time can lead to compacted soil and ruts, limiting the flow of air, water, and nutrients to the grass roots. By changing the mowing direction regularly, you encourage the grass blades to grow upright and maintain a more uniform appearance across the entire lawn.
Should you bag your grass clippings?
Well, the answer is that while mulching is the preferred method for tall fescue lawns, there may be situations where bagging the clippings is necessary. If you have fallen behind on your mowing schedule and the grass has grown too long, mulching may cause clumps that can smother the grass underneath. In such cases, bagging the clippings can help restore the lawn's appearance and health. However, it's essential to remember that this should only be done when needed, as mulching is generally the better practice for the long-term health of your lawn.
Why is it important to carefully select a lawn mowing service?
Not everyone has the time or inclination to mow their own lawn, and the choice of the right contractor holds significant importance for several reasons. One crucial factor to consider is how they maintain their equipment. While some professional lawn mowing services change their mower blades daily, others let them become incredibly dull before maintenance is performed..
Another aspect to ponder is their insistence on mowing your lawn every single week, even during the summer when your lawn needs a break. Excessive mowing can lead to further damage, and it's essential to find a service that understands the optimal mowing schedule for your lawn's health.
Furthermore, it is vital to take into account the types of properties they typically service. Did they previously cut a lawn full of weeds, inadvertently planting these invasive plants in your lawn now?
In conclusion, it is crucial not to take the choice of a lawn mowing service lightly. By carefully considering factors such as equipment maintenance, mowing frequency, and the types of properties they typically service, you can make an informed decision and ensure the well-being of your lawn.