Proper Mowing of New Grasses

When to Mow

• Mow seeded grass when seedlings have reached 3 1/2 inches in height, as recommended by the University of Minnesota. It is important to wait for seedlings to grow to this height to allow your grass to establish strong root systems. Grass blades are about as long as their root systems; if you mow short, you will have weak roots. Sod typically needs to be mowed four to seven days after it has been installed, according to the University of Rhode Island.

Mowing Height

• Mowing height depends on the grass types. For example, Kentucky bluegrass should be kept at a height between 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 inches, bermudagrass must be maintained at 1/2 to 1 inch and tall fescue at 2 1/2 to 3 inches in height, according to Ohio State University. Refrain from taking off more than 1/3 of the grass blade at one time. If your bermudagrass has grown to 1 1/3 inches, only take off 1/3 of an inch in one mowing session.

How to Mow

• Mow on dry days. Mowing when the lawn is wet causes grass clippings to clump together on the lawn and reduces air circulation, according to Ohio State University. Also, wet mowing encourages fungal diseases. Check your lawn mower's blades before mowing. Dull blades wound grass. Harmful pathogens enter through these wounds and can damage grass blades. Sharpen lawn mower blades at the beginning of each growing season. You can have them sharpened at gardening supply centers.

Other Factors

• Grass clippings impart important nutrients such as nitrogen to new grass. When grass clippings decompose on the lawn, the grass uses these nutrients to spread and maintain their green color. There should not be a large accumulation of grass clippings on the lawn. A thick layer of grass clippings can shade grass and cause problems. Rake up the grass clippings and distribute a thin layer across the yard. Extra grass clippings can be thrown into the compost, as suggested by Ohio State University.