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How Often and How High Should You Mow Your Lawn?
A great-looking lawn is less about how often you mow and more about mowing at the right height, at the right time. Get these basics right and your grass will grow thicker, greener and more resistant to weeds and drought.
Follow the One-Third Rule
The most important mowing rule is simple: never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing. Cutting too much at once stresses the grass, weakens the roots and leaves your lawn open to weeds, pests and browning.
If you want your lawn at 3 inches, mow when it reaches about 4.5 inches.
What Is the Best Mowing Height?
Taller grass shades the soil, holds moisture and crowds out weeds. Most home lawns do best when kept on the higher side.
| Grass Type | Examples | Recommended Height |
|---|---|---|
| Cool-season grasses | Tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass | 2.5–4 inches |
| Warm-season grasses | Bermuda, zoysia | 1–2 inches |
| Warm-season grasses (broad-leaf) | St. Augustine | 2.5–4 inches |
Not sure what grass you have? Your local garden center or extension service can help you identify it. Use your mower's height adjustment to dial in the right setting. The GreenGlide 21-Inch Mower offers 7 cutting positions.
How Often Should You Mow?
There is no fixed schedule, because grass grows at different speeds through the year. As a general guide:
- Peak growing season: about once a week, sometimes every 4–5 days in spring.
- Slower growth (summer heat or drought): every 10–14 days.
- Late fall: as needed until growth stops.
Let the one-third rule, not the calendar, decide when it is time to mow.
Mowing Through the Seasons
Spring
Start mowing once grass actively grows. Make the first cut with a sharp blade and avoid scalping the lawn.
Summer
Raise your cutting height during hot, dry weather. Longer grass protects roots and reduces watering needs.
Fall
Keep mowing until growth stops, gradually lowering the height for the final cuts. Mulching fallen leaves into the lawn adds organic matter.
Pro Mowing Tips for a Better Lawn
- Keep the blade sharp. Dull blades tear grass, leaving ragged brown tips.
- Mow when the grass is dry for a clean, even cut without clumping.
- Change your mowing pattern each time to prevent ruts and help grass grow upright.
- Leave the clippings. Grasscycling returns nutrients to the soil.
- Avoid mowing in the midday heat to reduce stress on the lawn.
Upgrade Your Mowing
Lawn mowers with easy height adjustment and clean, precise cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to cut grass short or long?
For most lawns, longer is better. Taller grass develops deeper roots, holds moisture and crowds out weeds.
Can I mow my lawn twice a week?
Yes, during fast spring growth mowing twice a week can help you follow the one-third rule and keep the lawn even.
Should I bag or mulch grass clippings?
Mulching is usually best because clippings return nutrients to the soil. Bag them if the grass is very long or wet, or if you see lawn disease.
What time of day is best to mow?
Mid-morning or early evening, when the grass is dry and temperatures are milder, is ideal.