What is the Best Lawn Mowing Height for Summer?
Maintaining the proper mowing height during the summer is crucial for the health and appearance of your lawn. Mowing too short can stress the grass and make it more susceptible to heat, drought, and diseases. On the other hand, mowing too high can result in a thatch build-up and an untidy look. In this blog, we'll explore the best lawn mowing height for summer to keep your grass healthy and green.
Why Mowing Height Matters
Root Development
Taller grass has deeper roots, which helps the lawn access water and nutrients more efficiently.
Moisture Retention
Higher grass shades the soil, reducing evaporation and helping retain moisture throughout summer.
Weed Suppression
Proper mowing height can prevent weed seeds from getting enough sunlight to germinate.
Disease Resistance
Healthy grass is more resilient to diseases and pests when mowed at the correct height.
Recommended Mowing Heights: Cool-Season Grasses
These grasses are common in New Jersey lawns and require higher mowing heights during summer heat.
Kentucky Bluegrass
Recommended Height: 2.5 to 3.5 inches. Taller blades shade the soil, conserving moisture and promoting deep root growth.
Fescue (Tall and Fine)
Tall Fescue: 3 to 4 inches. Fine Fescue: 1.5 to 3 inches. Fescue varieties benefit from higher mowing heights during hot, dry periods.
Perennial Ryegrass
Recommended Height: 2.5 to 3 inches. Ryegrass is resilient but can suffer in extreme heat, so a higher cut helps maintain its health.
Recommended Mowing Heights: Warm-Season Grasses
Warm-season grasses generally tolerate lower cuts but benefit from slightly higher heights during peak summer stress.
Bermuda Grass
Recommended Height: 1 to 2 inches. Bermuda grass thrives with lower mowing heights but should be kept at the higher end during summer to avoid stress.
Zoysia Grass
Recommended Height: 1 to 2 inches. Zoysia grass performs well at lower heights, but keeping it slightly higher in summer can reduce stress.
St. Augustine Grass
Recommended Height: 2.5 to 4 inches. This grass type requires a higher mowing height to stay healthy and green through summer.
Best Practices for Summer Mowing
Follow these best practices to keep your lawn in optimal condition throughout the summer months.
Follow the One-Third Rule
Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade length in a single mowing session. Cutting too much at once can stress the grass and hinder growth.
Mow When Grass is Dry
Mowing wet grass can lead to uneven cuts and clumping, which can smother the grass and promote disease. Always mow when the grass is dry.
Keep Mower Blades Sharp
Sharp blades ensure clean cuts, reducing the risk of disease and improving appearance. Dull blades can tear the grass, leading to brown tips and increased susceptibility to pests.
Mow in the Cooler Parts of the Day
Mow in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. This reduces stress on the grass and helps you avoid the heat.
Adjust Mowing Frequency
Grass growth can slow during the peak summer heat. Adjust your mowing frequency based on the growth rate, but maintain the recommended height.
Benefits of Proper Mowing Height
Enhanced Drought Tolerance
Taller grass shades the soil and conserves moisture, helping the lawn withstand dry conditions.
Improved Lawn Density
Proper mowing promotes thicker grass, which can crowd out weeds and reduce bare spots.
Better Overall Health
Healthy, properly mowed grass is more resistant to pests, diseases, and environmental stressors.
Get a Lush, Green Lawn This Summer with Lawn Buddies
At Lawn Buddies, we provide weekly and monthly suggestions on mowing and watering to keep your lawn in tip-top shape. Our fertilizer, seeding, and surface insect treatments will ensure your lawn looks its best compared to your neighbors in the summer. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve the perfect lawn!
