Tips, Tidbits & Tricks: Cutting the Grass

This weekend, I cut my grass for the first time this season. Fun! I actually really like cutting my grass. Anyway…



For this Monday’s Tips, Tidbits & Tricks, I thought I’d share some tips for lawnmower maintenance and how to create a beautiful yard.

• Lawnmowing should not be done when the grass is wet. It can lead to uneven cuts and invite fungus into your yard.

• When should you cut? The best time is evening, when there’s no dew (see above note about wet grass) and the sun isn’t beating down (which creates more stress on your lawn).



• You should only remove 1/3 of the grass blade at each mowing.

• Wondering if you should bag or leave clippings? You never want to leave big piles of cut grass (which can kill the grass underneath it), but clippings are good for your yard! They contain vital nutrients - nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium - that help your yard become even more beautiful. Note: grass clippings are great addition to your compost pile.

• Mix it up! Change the direction you mow – one week horizontal, the next vertical or zig zag (the neighbors will love that!) to prevent the “leaning” of your grass in one direction.


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• Before breaking out that lawnmower, make sure that all nuts and bolts are tightened.

• Clean out grass clippings and debris when you get done mowing for optimal cutting performance.


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• Sharp blades are essential for an even cut. Check your owner’s manual for advice on sharpening or changing out the blades.


Now pull out that John Deere. You’re ready for spring!