Lawn Care/Basics for Homeowners-Lawn Care/Fertilization/Mowing Equipment
Most lawns are mowed too short, not often enough, and/or with a dull mower blade. Recommended mowing height depends on the grass species:
Shaded areas should be mowed 0.5 to 1.0 inch higher than sunny areas. Mowing too short restricts root growth and increases the potential for damage from insects, disease, drought, and traffic. Mowing lawns too short also favors weed infestations.
Mowing frequency depends on how fast the grass is growing. Some lawns need
mowing 
twice
a week during spring and fall but only every other week during summer months.
Mow frequently so that not more than 1/3 of the leaf blade is removed in a mowing.
For example, if you are mowing at 3 inches, mow when the grass reaches 4 inches.
If the grass has grown too tall, raise the mowing height and gradually lower
it back to the original height over a several mowings. Avoid mowing when temperatures
are above 90 degrees or when the soil is dry. Wait until temperatures moderate
in the early morning or late evening, if mowing is done during a hot, dry period.
Sharp mower blades give a cleaner cut, and result in a more attractive lawn. Blades should be sharpened four to six times a year. Reel-type mowers perform best, especially at lower heights, but are more difficult to maintain than rotary mowers.
Grass clippings do not cause thatch and their removal is not recommended for most turfgrasses. Leaving clippings on the lawn recycles valuable nutrients and reduces fertilizer needs. Clippings should be spread evenly by the mower and should not be so thick that they shade the grass below. Mulching mowers perform best, but probably increase breakdown of cool season turfgrasses clippings only slightly faster than conventional rotary side-discharge mowers. Lawn clippings should only be removed if they are to be used for mulch or compost. Most landfills will not accept clippings or other yard waste.
Mowing wet grass should be avoided if possible, but if required because of an extended wet weather, the following can help:
More Mowing equipment topics:
 Mulching
Mowers |
| Conventional
Mowers |
| Reel
Mowers |
| Electric
Mowers |