Mowing the lawn is a common task during the warm summer months. It boosts curb appeal and preserves the health of the grass. Since it all comes down to the condition of your outdoor equipment and the techniques that you use, it’s important to understand the best approach. Take a closer look at the following do's and don'ts to ensure a quality level of care. 

Do: 

Sharpen your mower blades.

The blades tend to become dull after regular use. It could be that the grass was excessively thick or that random rocks and sticks kept getting stuck. Whatever the case, making time to sharpen your outdoor equipment will increase the ease of cutting grass. Otherwise, the blades might skip over certain sections and leave it looking like a patchwork quilt. Rough, hacked-off grass is also unhealthy for the lawn.

Wait until it’s dry.

Attempting to mow when the grass is still wet will only serve to clog the mower. This could increase the time it takes to complete the task, jeopardizing the evenness of your cut. Wait at least a day after a storm before starting up the equipment. This will give the grass a chance to dry out. 

Don’t:

Cut the grass too low.

If the lawn is cut close to the roots, then there’s no protection from the sun. This will prevent the soil from soaking up the water before it evaporates and may cause the grass to turn brown and die. Cutting no more than a third off the top is enough to maintain appearances. It’ll keep the roots shaded without letting the yard get out of control. 

Overlook grasscycling.

Grasscycling is when you leave the clippings on the lawn instead of bagging them up. It’s a natural form of composting and will allow them to break down directly into the soil. The additional nutrients will increase the health of the roots and ensure the property continues to flourish.

Ensure your outdoor equipment is ready for the season by working with Ernst Irrigation in St. Paul, OR. Their small engine repair department is fully staffed and equipped to handle a variety of services. From engine tuneups to lawn mower parts replacements, these professionals are trained to diagnose the issue and provide cost-effective upgrades. They also work with tractors and stock an assortment of hardware for general use. Call (503) 633-1111 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for additional information on their expertise.