Summer Mowing Maintenance & Turf Health
How to get the most out of your mow
Mowing certainly plays a big role in your daily lawn care efforts once warmer weather arrives. Although some see mowing as a straightforward, blue collar task, the best pros in the business have a strategy behind every cut. They work hard and smart to make the lawn look good while keeping the turf healthy.
The following factors make mowing turf more effective, ensuring that your hard work pays off. If you keep a close eye on them and handle them properly, your customers will have healthy and good-looking lawns all year long.
Cutting Height
The height at which you cut your turf will depend on the type of turf variety. Turf that is mowed below or above the recommended cutting height will show signs of wear over time. A good rule of thumb for most turf grasses is a height somewhere between 2.5 to 3 inches. Mowing turf at 3 inches may not increase traffic tolerance but it does help the turf develop a deeper root system and better access to water and nutrients. It’s also a good idea to pick a mowing height and stick with it throughout the growing season. If you feel you need to adjust, do it gradually.
Grass Clippings
If you plan it correctly, grass clippings can actually help your customers turf thrive while also saving time and money. It can be as simple as leaving the grass clippings behind instead of collecting them in the bag or collection system. The key is spreading the piles out across your lawn and not leaving them as clumps, so they can decompose quicker. Not only does this save you time but it also helps reduce waste.
Mowing Frequency
Although mowing frequency will depend on factors such as turf variety, growth rate and season—experts recommend that lawns be mowed every four to seven days. This number may increase in the spring due to heavier amounts of rainfall and it may decrease in dry or drought-like weather. But keeping a consistent schedule plays an important role in turf health.
Blade Tips
A sharp blade provides a clean cut which leaves turf with a much more attractive appearance. Dull blades not only leave a ragged edge behind but can also lead to diseases and increased fuel cost. Sharpening your blades at least twice a season will ensure clean, neat cuts and minimal damage to the turf.
Helping your customers realize and understand the importance of routine maintenance ensures that their turf keeps coming back healthy and beautiful each year. To learn more about our products and technologies or to consult with a LebanonTurf sales rep, please visit our brand-new website here.