I am often fascinated at how many home owners mistreat their lawn in terms of mowing.  This not only covers the obvious cutting height, but the size of the mower used to complete the project such as a tractor.  More often than not, the mower may very well be too heavy for the site and the blade too low.  The result is soil compaction, permanent tire marks, and injured turf resulting in a shallow root system.

University studies clearly show that mowing cool season turf grass between 2.5 and 3 inches is optimum for promoting more roots, deeper roots, and a healthier lawn over time.  Most turf grasses in NH and VT are a combination of grasses such as bluegrass, tall fescue, bentgrass, fine fescue, and rye grass.  Within these types, there are a huge amount of hybrid or improved strains that will hold a deeper green color or have greater drought tolerance.  Regardless of type, the standard for mowing holds true as seen in the picture below depicting what mowing short does to your lawn.

What reason do you have for mowing short?

1.  I won’t have to cut it as often.

2.  I like the short, military look.

3.  It will brown it out and then I know I don’t have to mow my lawn. (summer)

4.  I did not know it caused long term damage.

5.  I don’t know how to adjust my mower deck.

In my next article, I will discuss “mulching thy clippings” and why it is so important.  Give me your feedback.  Remember, I love grass- it should be enjoyable to look at, use, and care for during the growing season.