I have heard a number of people talking about how fast the grass is growing this year. Some farms are getting a jump on making hay already and by now most of those “no mow May” folks have trimmed up the lawn by now. The big question I have always wondered… How often should you mow your lawn?
Apparently the answer is more about how long the grass is when you start as the biggest concern when mowing your lawn is to not cut away too much height at one time.
Follow the 1/3 rule of lawn mowing
Forget the calendar. The best way to know when to mow is to follow the one-third rule:
Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade at a time.
For example, if your grass is 3 inches tall, don’t remove more than 1 inch in a single mowing. This approach helps prevent stress on your lawn and keeps it healthier overall.
In practice, that usually means:
– About 1-2 weeks during peak growing season
– Less often during drought or extreme heat
Stop over-mowing: This 1/3 rule shows exactly when to cut your grass
There is another important thing to think about when it comes to mowing and lawn health during the summer, the condition of your mower. A sharp blade is very important for lawn health:
A sharp blade slices grass cleanly, almost like scissors. A dull blade tears and shreds the grass. Those ragged edges can turn brown, lose moisture faster, and leave your lawn stressed, especially in the summer heat.
Sharpen Your Mower Blade Now for a Healthier Lawn This Summer
If you want to mow like a true pro this summer, here are a few tips in this video to keep in mind. Happy mowing.
