You might have let the garden take care of itself over the winter months but as the weather starts to warm up, it is time to keep on top of your grass again. Last week, we looked at the different types of mower available. This week, it is time to get mowing! Check out our Mowing 101 guide, where we start with the basics: what type of mower is best for you.
How often should you mow?
Mowing frequency depends on the rate of grass growth, which in turn depends on several factors including temperature, water, drainage and shade.
March – June – mow once a week, more if needed.
June – August – mow twice a week, dropping to once a week if there is a drought.
August – October – drop back to once a week, unless the weather is unseasonably warm and you need to mow more often.
October – March – Unless the winter is very mild and the grass continues to grow, you are unlikely to need to mow over winter. If you do need to mow, keep your cut setting as long as possible and don’t attempt to mow if the ground is either very soft from rain, or frozen solid.
Mowing Length
It is important that you reduce your lawn length gradually! You can’t just jump in, cutting your grass low after 6 months of growth as it could damage the grass and leave you with a messy finish. These tips will help you to get your lawn looking great and the right height.
- For the first mow of the year, mow at the highest setting. Each mow after that, reduce the height until your grass is at a length that you like and find manageable.
- Don’t mow your grass too short. It may look good, but it can weaken the grass and make it more vulnerable to moss, weeds and drought.
- Stick to the third rule: never remove more than a third of the length in one mow.
Avoid Scalping
It is frustratingly easy to scalp your lawn, and those bald patches of earth look worse than an unmown lawn! To avoid scalping:
- Don’t mow soft ground.
- Don’t turn too fast.
- Don’t always cut in the same direction and pattern as this can cause ruts in the lawn.
- Don’t cut too low.
- Don’t leave your lawn uneven; level out bumps and hollows.
- Don’t neglect your mower! Keep your blades sharp to avoid uneven, damaged the grass.
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If the thought of regularly mowing your lawn is a daunting one, why not consider hiring a regular gardener? Just an hour or two a week can help to maintain your garden, leaving you free to relax and enjoy.