Taller turf grass promotes deeper root growth which tends to allow for a healthier, more durable plant. A longer grass blade can store more moisture which helps the plant through periods of less rain or hotter temperatures. The benefits of keeping your grass taller include: watering and fertilizing less frequently, a greater absorption of nutrients by the plant, and an increase in photosynthesis due to larger blade surface area. A thicker, longer turf makes it very tough for weed seeds to penetrate down to the soil and is better at reducing soil loss due to rain and/or wind erosion. Also, the turf is far more tolerant to traffic and wear-and-tear from pets and playing kids.
An appropriately set mower height reduces damage to grass plant crowns. This avoids damaging the grass which in turn prevents a thinning lawn. By using a ruler or tape measure you can check the height of your lawn after cutting to determine if your mower is set for the correct cutting height. The changing seasons also dictate correct mowing height. In the spring, set the mowing height at 2 to 2.5 inches, at 3 inches for summer, and back to 2.5 inches when fall arrives. Other considerations for summer mowing height include turf that grows quickly (set the mower height at 2 to 3 inches) and if you have shady or sandy soil (set the height at 3+ inches).
It is best to not cut more than 1/3 of the plant height when mowing. Cutting more than 1/3 of the grass plant forces it to expend its limited resources to quickly reestablish longer grass blades. This causes an imbalance in proper growth as the grass plant will sacrifice root growth to achieve needed blade growth. Carefully manage your mowing schedule to maintain a "mower-friendly" environment to protect and preserve your turf as best as possible. For more information please visit us at Maier Tree & Lawn.
