Does Cutting the Grass Promote Growth?

Grass's Response to Mowing

• Mowing reduces grass's ability to produce energy, according to the University of Alabama. Grass produces energy by absorbing sunlight and photosynthesizing. To counteract this loss of energy, grass redirects energy from the roots to grow grass blades. The result is a weakened root system. The more of the grass you remove, the weaker the root system. While mowing encourages blade growth, the practice weakens the plant. Gardeners prevent grass damage by mowing at an appropriate height for the specific grass type and never taking off more than one-third of the grass blade at one time.

Mowing Height

• All grass types need to be maintained at a specific height. For example, Kentucky bluegrass should be kept at 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches while Bermuda grass must be kept at 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 inches in height, according to the University of Alabama. In order to prevent mowing too much of the grass blade, never cut off more than one-third of the blade. For example, grass that is kept at 3 inches is mowed when it reaches 4 1/2 inches, according to the University of Alabama.

Mowing

• Sharpen your mower's blades at the beginning of each growing season. Dull blades wound grass and create an entryway for harmful pathogens to enter. In addition, sharp blades shorten grass's recovery time after mowing, according to the University of Alabama. Mow when your grass is dry. Wait for midmorning, when the morning dew has dried. Mow your lawn in a different direction every time and at a 90-degree angle, suggests Ohio State University.

After Care

• Distribute the grass clippings across the lawn in a thin layer. Clumps of grass clippings reduce the amount of sunlight and air that reach the grass. Contrary to popular belief, grass clippings do not contribute to thatch buildup. In fact, grass clippings contribute nitrogen to the soil to promote growth. If consider grass clippings on the lawn to be unsightly, increase the amount of nitrogen you give to your lawn each year by one pound, as suggested by the University of Alabama.