What's the optimal mowing routine?

The best mowing is mowing that follows the one-third rule, keeping your lawn healthy and beautiful in mind. Do not mow more than one-third of the grass blade height at each mowing, thus allowing it to rest and recover from the shock that occurs from cutting. Instead of mowing on arbitrary days of the week, mow based on growth. If you really want to keep track, monitor the quick growth over the peak weeks and give yourself an off day or two. I typically monitor every week during peak seasons.

Seasonal adjustments make for excellent stress mitigation for the grass. Raise your cutting height by a half-inch during summer heat, which provides shade to the grass. Gradually reduce the height by half an inch at a time in the fall to help the grass prepare for winter. During peak growing months, use a new or sharpened blade at least once per month. Dull blades will tear the grass blades, inviting disease. I sharpen mine every three weeks.

Mowing in alternate directions will help prevent soil compaction. For example, mow north-south one week, then east-west the following week. Alternating mowing directions will help eliminate ruts in your turf or lawn area, allowing your turf or lawn to grow upright and healthy. Be sure to clean the mower decks after each mowing session, as this prevents the transfer of disease pathogens. This simple habit has greatly improved my lawn situation.

Mowing your grass properly helps to naturally create denser turf, which best resists weeds. Taller, uncut grass shades the surface of the soil, helping to reduce the amount of moisture evaporation into the air. If each person follows these methods consistently, their own lawns will grow healthier and require fewer interventions. Don't wait until the next time you mow the lawn to adjust the blade height. Start today!

Read the full article: How to Care for Lawn: Beginner's Guide