At What Height Should You Mow Your Grass? | A Cut Above

At What Height Should You Mow Your Grass?

The higher the better. Modern turf research consistently shows that mowing your grass too short causes stress, weakens root systems, and creates ideal conditions for weeds and drought.

The Higher The Better!

There are many different reasons why most experts now recommend a longer turf grass. Here’s just a few:

  • Promotes longer root growth
  • Provides shade to soil beneath, which reduces weed germination
  • Reduces chance of drought conditions forming
  • Cutting too short damages its ability to sustain continual growth

Longer Root Growth

More and more evidence has come out directly connecting longer grass blades with their ability to support larger and deeper root systems. The healthier the root system, the healthier the turf grass overall.

Providing Critical Shade to Soil Beneath

If your grass is cut too short, the sun can absolutely scorch the soil. This severely hampers the turf’s ability to thrive and allows weed germination to take off.

Avoiding Drought Conditions

Cutting grass too short dramatically increases the likelihood of drought stress. Short turf loses moisture faster and struggles to recover during hot, dry periods.

Damaging the Grass

Removing too much grass at once damages the plant to the point where it cannot properly sustain new growth.

Rule of Thumb: Never cut more than ⅓ of the grass height at any one mowing.

Ideal Cool Season Length

2.75″ – 4.25″ depending on exact type

Ideal Warm Season Length

1.25″ – 3.25″ depending on exact type