Tips on Mowing Fescue Lawn

Frequency

• Mow fescue at least once each week during most of the year. Cutting it too short can cause the grass to develop a shallow root system and dry out, making it more difficult to keep healthy. Grass that is too short also allows sunlight to reach the soil area and encourages weeds. Mowing it frequently keeps it in healthy condition. For best results, mow one-third of the grass height during a single mowing. When fescue is actively growing during the spring it may be necessary to mow it every three or four days. During extreme heat, cold or drought conditions, mowing every seven to 10 days may suffice.

Height

• In March through May, keep fescue at a height of 3 inches. During the months of June through August, raise the mowing blades to a height of 3 1/2 inches. In September through November, mow the grass so it is 2 1/2 to 3 inches in height. Three inches is the best height for December through February. During the later part of February, remove all the grass clippings for the new spring growth. If the grass gets too high while you are out of town or some other reason, it is better to raise the mowing blades a bit when you return then cut the grass to the proper height three days later. Cutting the grass too short can encourage weeds or dry out the lawn.

Grasscycling

• Grasscyling simply means leaving grass clipping on the lawn after you mow. The clippings decompose quickly and provide nutrients that help fertilize the lawn. If situations prevent you from mowing the lawn frequently, making the clippings too plentiful, use them as mulch in other areas of the yard.

Mower Maintenance

• Sharp blades make clean cuts on the grass instead of leaving it shredded or frayed. Inspect the mower blades regularly and sharpen when necessary. Rotary mowers need their blades sharpened every fourth mowing to obtain a clean cut. This prevents brown, unattractive lawns due to dull blades. Check the blade-to-bedknife adjustments on your reel-type mower before mowing to prevent tattered grass blades.