A Good Lawn Equals Good Health
A properly mowed lawn not only looks great, but it is also more likely to resist weeds, insects and disease. Contrary to criticism from some that residential lawns waste water and introduce harmful levels of pesticides to the environment, a properly maintained lawn is actually beneficial for the environment.
A healthy lawn contributes to cooler temperatures during the hot months of summer, as well as cleaner air and water. Hearty grass lawns require minimal chemical intervention (pesticides, fertilizers) and use water effectively. One way to ensure that you are only requiring the proper amount of irrigation for your lawn is to maintain it at the recommended height.
Turfgrass Mowing Guidelines
By establishing effective mowing habits, you can ensure that your lawn will use minimal water and maintain the proper density to compete with weeds. Conversely, failure to mow properly will result in thin, weedy lawns.
For the most common types of turfgrass in Texas, here are the recommended heights and mowing frequencies:
St. Augustine – 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches high, mowing once a week
Bermuda grass – 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches high, mowing once a week or every five days if possible
Fescue and most other grasses – 2 to 3 inches high, mowing once a week
Other General Mowing Tips
Avoid mowing grass when it’s wet – When wet grass is mowed, it cuts unevenly and the clippings form clumps that create a barrier, preventing your lawn from receiving sunlight.
Always maintain a sharp blade on your mower – Sharply-cut leaf blades increase turf health by improving recovery, decreasing water loss and increasing photosynthesis. Lawns mown with a dull mower blade have poor aesthetics, heal more slowly and have greater water loss.
Fran Phalin is a homeowner and freelance writer on things that work and is based in Austin, Texas.
For information on how to properly maintain a healthy lawn for your family’s health and enjoyment, visit the Anteater website at the following URL: http://www.goanteater.net.
