As temperatures start rising, it’s time to get the lawn care equipment out of storage and start thinking about mowing the lawn. Mowers generally offer a variety of settings that control the length to which you cut the grass. This doesn’t just come down to aesthetic preference, though. The right length can help your lawn stay healthy and vibrant all year. Here's a closer look at how to approach the first few cuts.

The Importance of Leaving Grass Long

Property owners should avoid mowing their lawn too low, especially in the spring. Longer grass creates a canopy over the soil, shading it and preventing water from evaporating too quickly. Not only does this keep the roots hydrated, but it also provides less sunlight for weeds to germinate. 

Additionally, cutting grass too short leaves the crown of each blade exposed. This is the part that produces new growth. Since temperatures can still fluctuate in the spring, an unexpected frost after mowing the lawn may injure the crowns. This makes it difficult for the blades to recover, which can stunt growth throughout the rest of spring and summer. 

The “One-Third Rule”

If you’re looking for a specific guideline for mowing your lawn, follow the “one-third rule.” This means you should only remove one-third of the length of your grass at a time, which protects the soil and crown against too much exposure. 

If your lawn is especially long, you should still follow this rule, but you may mow every few days to get the blades down to a manageable level. Additionally, if there’s thatch or organic debris around your lawn after winter, rake it through the lawn to provide a layer of mulch to protect the soil. 

If you’re looking for new lawn care equipment to maintain your property this spring, contact Stanly Tractor Company in New London, NC. The power equipment dealer provides tractors, riding mowers, and lawn care equipment from top brands like Kubota®. With more than 50 years in business, the team also offers a full service department to handle repairs and maintenance year after year. Visit the website to browse current specials. To speak with a team member, call (704) 983-1106.