How to Mow High to Shade Weeds

How high you mow your grass and the amount of weeds you have growing in your lawn are directly related. Mowing grass at higher heights shades out the bare areas between the grass blades, which hinders many weeds that require sunlight to germinate from ever growing. In addition, many grasses prefer to be mowed at higher heights rather than close to the ground, so you'll also grow a healthier lawn which is likely to fill in those bare spots, leaving little room for any weeds to grow.

Instructions

- 1
  Determine at what height you should set your lawn mower to mow your particular grass. This varies greatly among varieties. For example, common Bermuda grass should be mowed between 1 to 2 inches high and St. Augustine grass between 2 1/2 and 4 inches.
- 2
  Set your mower near the higher end of the recommended height. This will help shade out weeds. How to set the mowing height differs with lawn mowers. There may be a lever you adjust or you may have to adjust each wheel. Refer to the mower's manual for instructions.
- 3
  Mow your grass frequently, removing no more than one-third of its height at each mowing. This means that if your mower height is set to 2 inches, you should mow your lawn when its height reaches 3 inches. This will help keep your grass healthy so it will quickly spread and fill in the any gaps and become dense and lush.

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