Have you ever been in a neighbor’s yard and heard the question, “How short should I cut my grass?” This question has been asked and debated at backyard barbecues dating back to the first lawns.
Although everyone has an opinion, there is fact-based knowledge to back the length you cut your lawn to keep it at its healthiest.
Most people set the blade on the mower height, start it up, and mow their lawn without another thought. Then there’s the die-hard, my lawn has to be perfect, type of person. They will likely have an opinion on the proper height of a freshly cut lawn.
If you are unsure what kind of grass you have, call 410 Lawn Guy. We can let you know what type of grass you have and how high to cut your lawn. Because multiple grass varieties thrive differently depending on the height of the cut, it’s essential to know your grass type.
Why Does It Matter How Short I Cut My Grass
A healthy lawn needs mowing regularly. Unfortunately, for the healthiest lawn, the mowing schedule will vary based on weather and the type of grass.
Suppose you cut your grass too short in anticipation of the upcoming week of vacation. In that case, you’re not doing your grass any favors. Pay a neighbor to cut it on the appropriate day when you’re gone. Your grass will thank you. Grass cut too short will suffer, and you’ll see the damage.
How Short You Cut Your Grass Depends On The Grass Type
The grass type, time of year, and temperature determine how short to cut your grass.
Most people who mow their grass have schedules that put that chore onto a weekend day. Hire 410 Lawn Guy, and we will consider your lawn’s health first when we schedule our professional crew to keep your property in pristine shape. We understand your lawn’s needs and the changes necessary to ensure the healthiest lawn possible.
The Model Cutting Height for Grass Types
For Spring and Fall, when the temperatures are cooler:
- Turf-Type Tall Fescue cut to 2-3 inches
- Kentucky Bluegrass cut to 2.5-3.5 inches
- Creeping Red Fescues cut to 3-3.5 inches
- Perennial Ryegrass cut to 1.5-2.5 inches
For the warm Summer season:
- Centipede Grass cut to 1-2 inches
- St. Augustine cut to 2-3 inches
- Common Bermuda Grass cut to 1-2 inches
- Zoysia Grass cut to 1-2 inches
- Hybrid Bermuda cut to 1-1.5 inches
It’s important to remember that these are recommendations, and keeping tabs on the absolute best time to mow your lawn can be best left up to the professionals.
In general, don’t cut your lawn too short because it will compromise the health of your grass and encourage weeds to propagate. Err on the side of caution for a happier lawn. If you have a week, you just can’t fit in mowing your lawn? Don’t sweat it.
Other Tips For A Healthy Lawn
If you walk across your lawn and see your footprints, that’s a sign that your grass needs water. The well-watered grass blades will spring back faster than dry grass blades.
At the beginning of the lawn mowing season, ensure you get the blades on your lawn mower professionally sharpened. The precision cut will keep your lawn healthier than a dull blade that does more damage than good.
Cut down on garbage, make your lawn healthier, and quit gathering the grass clippings. This nitrogen-rich, free fertilizer is best left to decompose at the root base. This saves you time and money and makes your lawn happy.
Having a beautiful lawn is a badge of honor for many homeowners. Keeping your yard in pristine shape takes time. If you want some tips from a licensed, professional company, or you’re tired of trying to keep your lawn in tip-top shape, call 410 Lawn Guy. We’ll take care of your lawn, so you don’t have to.
