Mow Better, Not Harder: How to Keep Your Lawn and Mower in Top Shape
Summer is here, and it’s time to get your lawn in shape for the season. One of the most important aspects of lawn care is proper mowing—a well-maintained lawn not only looks great but also provides a safe place for your family to play and relax. However, mowing improperly or infrequently can lead to a variety of issues, from uneven growth to pest infestations. That’s why it’s important to understand the basics of summer lawn care, including how to mow your lawn correctly, how frequently to mow it, and how to maintain your mower.
We’ll cover the fundamentals of summer lawn care and provide you with the information you need to keep your lawn healthy and thriving throughout the season. By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and tools necessary to achieve a well-manicured lawn that will be the envy of your neighborhood. So, let’s get started!
How Frequently Should You Be Mowing Your Lawn?
When it comes to mowing your lawn during the summer months, the frequency and timing of your mowing sessions are crucial for maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn.
So how often should you mow your lawn?
The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the type of grass you have, the current weather conditions, and the amount of rainfall your lawn has received.
In general, most lawns should be mowed at least once a week during the summer months. However, if your lawn is experiencing a period of rapid growth due to heavy rainfall or excessive heat, you may need to mow it more frequently. On the other hand, if you’re experiencing a drought or a period of slow growth, you may be able to reduce the frequency of your mowing sessions.
Timing is another critical factor to consider when mowing your lawn. It’s important to avoid mowing during the hottest part of the day, as this can stress your lawn and cause it to turn brown. Instead, try to mow your lawn during the cooler parts of the day, such as early in the morning or in the late afternoon.
By adjusting your mowing frequency and timing based on the needs of your lawn, you can help ensure that your lawn stays healthy and attractive all summer long.
Before you jump into mowing, we need to talk about proper mower maintenance…
Regularly Perform Maintenance On Your Mower
Mower maintenance is an essential aspect of summer lawn care. Regular maintenance will not only help keep your mower running smoothly, but it will also extend its lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
Here are a few key tips to help you keep your mower in tip-top shape this summer:
- Check the oil regularly. The engine oil in your mower is just as important as the oil in your car; its what keeps the engine lubricated and running smoothly. Check the oil level before each use, changing it as needed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Keep the air filter clean. A dirty air filter can reduce your mower’s performance and even cause it to stall. Clean or replace the air filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. While it may differ between manufacturers, standard practice is typically every 3 months.
- Make sure your blades are sharp. A dull blade can tear and damage your grass, leaving it vulnerable to disease and pests. Check the blade regularly and sharpen it as needed.
- Clean the deck. Grass clippings and other debris can accumulate under the deck, reducing airflow and causing your mower to overheat. Clean the deck after each use to prevent this from happening.
- Store your mower properly. When you’re not using your mower, store it in a dry, covered area to protect it from the elements. Drain the fuel if you’re storing it for an extended period.
By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your mower running smoothly and ensure that your lawn looks its best all season long. Now we get to the final element: proper mowing technique.
There’s A Right Way To Mow Your Lawn
Mowing your lawn is not just about cutting the grass—it’s also about maintaining the health and appearance of your lawn. Proper mowing technique is essential for achieving this goal. Here are some tips for mowing your lawn like a pro!
- Adjust the mower height. Adjust the cutting height of your mower according to the type of grass you have and the current weather conditions. In general, taller grass is healthier and more resistant to weeds and pests. Set the height to remove no more than one-third of the grass blade at each mowing.
- Keep the blades sharp. (Which is something you should be looking at if you’re performing maintenance regularly on your mower!) Dull blades can damage your grass and leave it vulnerable to disease and pests. Sharpen your blades at least once a season, or more often if you have a large lawn.
- Follow the “one-third” rule. s mentioned earlier, you should never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at each mowing. This will ensure that your lawn stays healthy and green.
- Mow in a different pattern. Mowing in the same pattern every time can cause the grass to lean in one direction, giving your lawn a striped appearance. Instead, mow in a different pattern each time to encourage the grass to stand upright.
- Avoid scalping the lawn. Scalping your lawn by cutting the grass too short can cause it to turn brown and become more susceptible to disease and pests. Keep the cutting height consistent and avoid cutting too short.
By following these proper mowing techniques, you can keep your lawn healthy, attractive, and free of pests and diseases. Remember to adjust your mowing frequency and timing based on the needs of your lawn, and keep your mower properly maintained for optimal performance. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a beautiful, well-manicured lawn that will be the envy of your neighborhood.
June Steele
