Are You Cutting Your Grass Too Short?

Not all grasses are designed to look like golf course turf. In fact, if you are trying to attain that look by repeatedly cutting your grass below the minimum mowing height, you may be doing more harm than good. Some species of grass can even die if you are cutting them too short.

Mowing mistakes are common. It is important that you understand the specifics about your grass structure in order to learn if it can tolerate a shorter cut.

Did you know there is a science behind the form and structure of grass? It’s called “grass morphology”. The source of life for each blade of grass is found in the crown. The grass crown grows just at ground level and is more white than green in color. The blades extend upward from the crown and the roots descend downwards into the soil to reach nutrients. When the blades or roots are cut, the crown is able to replace them. However, if the crown itself is cut or damaged, the grass may not recover or be slow to do so. When the grass is weakened like this, it is even more susceptible to weed invasion and disease. Therefore, to determine the best mowing height for your grass, you must learn its crown height.

Determining Mowing Height

A professional landscaper can help you determine the ideal mowing height for your personal lawn. You’ll first need to know what type of grass you have in your landscape. Here are some general guidelines:

Cool Season Grasses

Fescue is an example of a cool season grass. While 1.5 inches is considered a minimum mowing height, your fescue should be maintained at a standard 3 inches for optimal health.

Warm Season Grasses

Cutting heights for warm season grasses can vary from species to species. Some can be mowed quite short. Both Common Bermuda grass and Zoysia can be cut at around 1 to 2 inches.

When it comes to mowing your lawn, it is best to consult with an expert. Better yet, let a professional do it for you. Pannone’s Landscaping and Lawn Pros offer a full menu of options for lawn maintenance. We can simply come out on a one-time basis to consult with you about your lawn needs, or we can schedule a weekly or monthly maintenance plan. Call today to learn more!