In the pursuit of the perfect lawn, many of us may set lawn mower height settings to the absolute minimum. This is not always the right approach.
Why Mower Height Settings Matter
Mower height settings should be made in such a way that the grass has some margin left for sun protection. Height settings up to a maximum of 3.25 to 4 inches are optimal in certain cases.
Factors Affecting the Best Lawn Mower Height Setting
There are many factors that affect the mower height. Ideally, additional adjustment should be made even for areas of lawn that are in the shade. By lowering the mower half an inch in height, such areas can absorb more sunlight.
Grass type
But the height settings on lawn mower must firstly be set according to the type of grass you have. You can easily find detailed information on the web. If your grass type is recommended to be maintained at a height of 2 inches, wait until it has grown to at least three inches and mow at the appropriate height setting.
Season and weather conditions
You should closely monitor weather conditions and adjust the lawn mower cutting height. If you have an abnormally hot summer, raise the setting by half an inch to protect the grass.
Lawn use
Think about the foot traffic on your lawn and whether you intend to do any sports activities on it. High grass will make any of that difficult. To be honest, you should think about this at the grass type selection phase, but you can also adjust the lawnmower height settings.
When to Use a Higher Mower Setting
Hot weather, drought, planting a new lawn, and dealing with weeds are appropriate occasions for high lawn mower settings.
During Hot, Dry Weather
A height of 3–4 inches will help you shade the soil, and the grass itself will retain moisture better. Also, try to mow less frequently: this encourages deeper root growth and the lawn will be less stressed.
In Shady Areas
In addition to having the right lawn mower height settings in inches, watering regimen is also critical for shaded areas. Water infrequently, as these areas retain moisture much longer.
During the Fall Season
Reduce the mowing height to an average of 2–3 inches during this period. Fall is also an ideal time to aerate the lawn, add fertilizer, and overseed bare or thin areas. Do this before the first frost.
To Combat Crabgrass
Keeping the grass taller and using a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring should help.
The "one-third rule" of mowing
It's a simple rule, never cut more than one-third of the grass in one mowing. More drastic changes can lead to a loss of balance between roots and blades of grass.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Never mistake the graduations/numbers on your lawn mower for inches. The ratio between the numbers on the equipment and inches can be found in the owner's manual.
Cutting Too Short
Remember the school course and photosynthesis in detail: in order to convert sunlight into energy, the grass must have sufficient blade length. Keep this in mind when selecting the best height setting for lawn mowers.
Inconsistent Height Settings
This can lead to a variety of bad effects. Among the most critical: abnormal root development as well as weed growth.
Ignoring Seasonal Adjustments
You should learn more about the growing patterns of your grass species. They all behave differently depending on the season. Understand which are the best lawn mower height settings for you.
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Conclusion
Be attentive to your lawn, feel it, understand its needs. And then it will give you a fresh and cool look in return.
