Mowing with dull blades will have a tendency to “shred” the grass blades. This can make the lawn more susceptible to disease problems, and will give the lawn a brown appearance. It is recommended to sharpen the blades atleast once or twice per season.  You should always periodically check your mower blades (and grass blades!) for signs of dullness. Shredded ends of the grass is a sure sign that the blades should be sharpened.

Mowing Frequency

During the growing season it is recommended that no more than 1/3 of the grass blade be removed at one time. Removal of more than 1/3 of the grass blades at one mowing will tend to cause you to “mow of the green..” And leave you with a brown lawn every time you mow.  Warm season grasses such as bermuda will look the best if they are cut atleast on a weekly schedule, however every 3 to 5 days would be best.  Going every 10 to 14 days or more between mowing the lawn can result in a weaker stand of turf if the lawn is cut back down short again each time. This will generally “stress” the turf out, and can make for more problems down the road, and the lawn will not stay green very much.  Frequent mowing will also help minimize weed problems in the lawn.

Recommended Mowing Height for Georgia Turf

Grass Type                          Height (inches)

Tall Fescue                                    2-3

Common Bermudagrass              1-2

Hybrid Bermudagrass                0.5-1.5

Zoysia                                         0.5-1.5

Centipedegrass                            1-1.5