The Right Mowing Height

Height is a factor often not taken into account while mowing the grass. Many lawn care enthusiasts and homeowners alike are not aware of the heights that each type of grass should be cut to – here is a guide that will assist you in mowing your lawn to its optimal stature.

There are ten different types of common grass and each of those grasses has a different recommended mowing height. Some are longer, some are shorter but each guideline should be adhered to while growing and maintaining your lawn.

Kentucky bluegrass is a grass that excels within the northern United States as it has a high cool tolerance and a nice blue-green hue. It is finely textured and best cut at the height of 1 ½ to 2 ½ inches.

Ryegrass should be mowed at a height of 1 ½ to 2 ½ inches and is a perennial grass that favours well in the sun but will tolerate shaded areas. Annual ryegrass is available at lower costs as the grass will last only one year. Ryegrass is a choice for backyards and playgrounds alike as it as high traffic tolerance. Ryegrass is identified by the fine green blades that give the appearance of a glossy finish.

Buffalograss is one of the lowest maintenance grasses. It should be mowed to a level of 2 to 3 inches but will withstand not being mowed at all. It is one of the two native grasses in North America used for lawns – and can be found naturally in the prairies.

St. Augustine is one of the thicker genuses of grass. It should be mowed or cut to a height of 1 to 3 inches and fares well in large amounts of shade, or sun making St. Augustine a versatile choice. It grows thick and course and is proficient in the southern and coastal states. There are no seeds produced therefore the grass will be required to be planted in sods.

Bentgrass should be mowed at a height of ¼ to ¾ inches and is often used on putting greens. It is available in two forms; creeping and colonial. Colonial is a traditional choice for lawns as it can grow taller and although still requires a high level of maintenance it continues to be a popular choice.

Bermuda grass should be kept mowed at a level of ½ to 1 inch. Bermuda grass has deep roots which enable the grass to be tolerable to dry and drought conditions. Bermuda grass may be able to pull moisture from deep in the soil but if the conditions are less than ideal the grass will become dormant and turn an undesirable shade of yellow or brown. Conditions which may cause the Bermuda grass to become dormant are lack of water, and excessive amounts of shade and a constant temperature less than fifty degrees.

Centipede grass should be mowed at a level of 1 to 2 inches and is a grass that may become intolerable to drought due to its short roots. It is a sensitive grass which will not tolerate many environments including; salt, shade, heavy traffic or excessive sun. Centipede grass has an extended recovery time but is low maintenance if in the correct environment.

Fescue and Tall Fescue grass are resilient – although do not excel in areas of heavy traffic. Fescue grass should be mowed at a height of 1 ½ to 2 ½ inches and Tall Fescue at a level of up to 3 inches. A tall Fescue fare better in the sun than the latter and is popular in the Southwest. Fescue grass has become more of a cool season grass – and fares will in low levels of shade.

Zoysia is the most tolerant, and versatile of the grasses. It is tolerant to heavy traffic but will wear in the places of the traffic and may take longer to grow in those areas. A very fine bladed grass, it should be cut at a height as low of a ¼ inch. It is proficient in dry areas, as the grass is one of the most tolerant to drought.

Each grass requires different levels of care and it is important to take this into account when choosing and planting your lawn. Grass may be available in seeds, sod or sprigs and it is important to choose accordingly to the care you are able to provide in conjunction with the climate that you live. Follow the tips for mowing to keep the lawn manicured and the grass will gleam green in no time.

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