Mow High

Mowing height is important, especially during the hottest months of the summer. As a general rule, mow high and mow often. The grass should be at least 3-4 inches tall when you go to mow, as it enables the grass to establish and maintain a healthier root system, and you should not mow off more than one-third of the grass blade length.

Mowing grass too close to the ground increases the vulnerability of grass to the hot sun, exposes delectable parts to insects, and weakens the root system. The growth of new green grass is hindered because the plant directs its energy towards the struggling roots.

Mowing higher also helps control weeds like crabgrass by "shading" them out. For every eighth-inch that a lawnmower blade is raised, there is a 30% increase in the leaf surface area. That means a relative increase in photosynthesis, which feeds a larger, healthier root system.

Keep mower blades sharp. Consider buying an extra set to use while the other set is being sharpened. Grass cut with dull blades is jagged and irregular, which promotes moisture loss and increases recovery time. Sharpened blades make a clean cut that allows for faster recovery.