As summer heats up, you may be looking for a bit of a break from outdoor yard work. Well, so is your lawn. Good news is, it may not need as much mowing this season. But that doesn’t mean it should get ignored altogether. Use these summer lawn mowing tips to help you and your lawn get through the season unscathed.

Summer Lawn Mowing Tips

Achieving a lush, green lawn in the height of summer is not an easy task. You may notice that the grass isn’t growing as fast, and what’s there may start to look a little brown. Not to worry, it may just be dormant, but it could still use some mowing. Here are some tips to keep in mind before, during, and after your mow to help ensure your yard is in the best shape it can be this season.

1. Sharpen blades. Dull mower blades tear the grass, leading to an unhealthy lawn. Sharp blades help ensure a clean cut to prevent disease.
2. Clean debris. Remove clumps of grass and other debris from underneath your mower to help improve performance.
3. Check power levels. Keep an eye on your mower’s battery, fuel, and oil levels. Running out mid-mow may damage the mower.
4. Mow in the morning or late afternoon. Give yourself and your grass a break from the hottest parts of the day and mow when the sun isn’t as intense to limit stress.
5. Only mow dry grass. Wet grass blades can be slippery and lead to uneven cuts and clumping, which can suffocate the lawn.
6. Only mow when needed. Forget the regular mowing schedule and only cut the grass if it needs it. Since a lot of lawns go dormant in the summer, you may not need to mow as much.
7. Mow higher. Keep your grass a bit longer in the summer to help shade the soil and keep roots cool.
8. Alternate mowing patterns. Going in the same direction every time can cause soil compaction. Go in the opposite direction to help encourage upright grass growth. No matter which way you go, slightly overlap each pass to ensure you don’t leave any uncut strips.
9. Water properly. Deep, infrequent watering sessions in the morning are better for disease prevention and deep root growth, which helps make your lawn more drought-resistant. However, follow any current drought restrictions, and keep yourself hydrated during the process.
10. Control weeds. Invasive plants seem to thrive in summer’s hot and humid conditions. Regular mowing helps control weeds by preventing them from going to seed.
11. Manage pests. Those brown patches of grass may also be signs of certain pests. Also look for chewed grass blades and act early to help save your lawn from severe damage.
12. Protect yourself. Shield yourself from the sun with glasses, a hat, and sunscreen and wear closed-toe shoes to prevent mower injuries.
13. Take breaks. Be kind to yourself if you start to feel too hot or tired. Enjoy the view from under a shady tree or patio umbrella.

Remember summer is the season for vacations, so don’t be afraid to take a break from mowing. Your grass may actually grow better because of it. If you do find your grass is stressed, diseased, infested, or mostly weeds, there’s still a way to help.

Contact Cardinal Lawns for Lawn Restoration

If you’re worried your grass is not getting the right care this season, call 614-808-4446 for help. Our lawn care specialists can help restore your lawn with aeration, seeding, and fertilizing this fall. We can also help treat certain pests—including mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks—to give you the comfortable summer break you deserve.

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