How to set the right mowing height
The difference between a lawn that looks sharp and one that always looks stressed is usually half an inch of mowing height.
What you'll learn
- Correct mowing height for each SD grass type
- The one-third rule (and why violating it browns tips)
- Why sharp blades matter more than mower brand
- Seasonal height adjustment (higher in summer, lower in winter)
Step by step
- Identify your grass type (Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, or Fescue).
- Set the deck height to match the range for that grass type.
- Mow when grass is one-third taller than target, never cut more than one-third of the blade.
- Alternate mowing direction each week to prevent ruts and ridges.
- Sharpen the blade every 10-15 mows (or monthly for weekly service).
Safety note
Scalping a lawn in June at 1 inch to buy time before the next mow is the fastest path to a weed-covered lawn in August.
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