There are several factors to consider when trying to determine the right cutting height of your grass: type, season, and conditions. By following these guidelines, you could enjoy a healthier, low-maintenance, drought-tolerant lawn.

Cutting Height by Grass Type

The type of grass needs to be considered when determining cutting height. Some grasses, like bentgrass, can be mowed short—under half an inch. Taller types of grasses, such as fescues, should be mowed high and kept at around three to four inches.

Cutting Height by Season

You’ll find the rate at which you need to cut your lawn will change with the seasons. While some grass grows more rapidly in the spring and summer, you can cut low to remove dead blades in the spring and cut high in the dry summer heat. You’ll also want to cut as high as possible in the cooler seasons.

Cool-season turf, like fescues and Kentucky bluegrass, thrives in cool temperatures during spring and fall. The typical height range for these grasses is between one and four inches high. You can mow them shorter toward the end of fall in snow-prone regions to help prevent mold.

Cutting Height by Conditions

Depending on the conditions the grass is growing in will help determine how low or high to cut. Grasses in shady areas will grow better if mowed higher. If there’s a drought, you also want to cut your grass at the highest range to reduce stress on your lawn.

General Cutting Height Facts

Proper mowing not only keeps your lawn looking neat, but it also helps prevent weeds, pests, and disease. If grass is too long, it’s an ideal spot for mosquitoes, mice, and snakes to hide. Plus, the longer it is, the harder it is to mow.

Cutting your grass short all the time doesn’t necessarily mean it will need less cutting. In fact, if it’s too short, you’re inviting weeds and heat damage to your lawn. Keep at least one-third of the grass blade length at a single cutting, and expect to mow about once every week at most during peak season.

Every type of grass has an ideal mowing height, no matter when or where it’s growing. Maintain this ideal height, and you’ll be rewarded with a lush, healthy lawn that easily fends off weeds, drought, and disease. If you have any questions about the type of grass in your lawn and specific height recommendations, contact the Cardinal Lawns experts at 614-808-4446.

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