Improper lawn mowing methods can diminish the appearance of a lush yard, but not many people know the proper tricks and techniques. Most homeowners know not to cut their grass when it’s wet because it can spread fungus and disease, but there are other mistakes beyond that. Study these common mowing errors for the next time you do some yard work.

What to Avoid When Mowing Your Lawn

1. Cutting Your Grass Too Much

Some inexperienced homeowners believe that mowing the lawn should be done at least once a week or more. Cutting your grass too often can wreak havoc on the health of your lawn’s root system and leave your garden susceptible to weeds. Warm-season grasses common to the Texas climate should only be mowed when they reach 1-2 inches in height.

2. Cutting Your Grass Too Short

Chopping your grass too short is just as damaging as cutting it too often. When mowing, don’t cut more than one-third of the height of the grass. Cutting it shorter can cause stress on your lawn and inhibit healthy growth. Check the setting of the blade each time you mow and adjust its height as needed.

3. Removing the Clippings

Many homeowners bag grass clippings after they mow their lawns because they mistakenly believe leaving the cut grass will smother the yard. On the contrary, clippings act as mulch and return much-needed nutrients into the soil. The scraps also help your garden retain moisture for healthy growth.

4. Mowing in the Same Patterns

Lawn mowing in the same direction each time can mat down grass and inhibit growth. It also causes ruts in your lawn caused by the mower’s wheels. By changing direction or mowing in different patterns, you reduce wear on the turf and encourage a healthier, lusher lawn.

5. Using a Mower With Blunt Blades

If your lawn has brown spots or looks unhealthy, your mower’s blades are probably too dull for the job. Dull blades tend to shred grass and allow diseases to take root. Blades should be replaced or sharpened at least once a year to produce a clean, healthy cut. 

Many homeowners realize that lawn mowing is a time-consuming and challenging task best left to the professionals. If you need lawn maintenance services, Jake’s Lawn Care in Fort Worth, TX, has helped residents keep their yards looking healthy and beautiful for more than 30 years. Their specialists offer mowing, seeding, mulching, and landscaping services. Call (817) 292-2711 to request a free consultation or visit them online to learn more about their services.