How to mow your lawn this summer

As your garden enters a season of rapid growth, your lawn will need mowing at least once a week – or twice a week if you live in a particularly sunny region. But remember not to cut more than a third of the grass height at once. This will ensure that the grass retains enough surface area for energy production.

Keep the grass long during early and mid-summer, then gradually reduce the height as autumn approaches. Longer grass creates more shade on the ground, reducing moisture loss and helping your grass stay hydrated during the dry weather. Extra grass height also blocks weeds from receiving essential sunlight, making your lawn prosper while weeds are left in the dark. 

The best time to water your lawn is in the morning, as cooler temperatures allow the grass to absorb essential moisture before it evaporates.

However, you should avoid mowing your lawn at this time, as morning dew weighs the grass down and leads to an uneven, messy cut. Dewy grass also makes clippings clump together, sticking to the underside of your mower and creating extra work after you finish mowing. Mow after sundown when the lawn is dry, the heat is off and your freshly cut lawn has time to replenish overnight before the sun comes up again. 

Make sure your mower’s blades are always kept sharp, especially during the summer when the grass needs mowing more frequently and the blades become dull faster. Sharp blades ensure a smart finish and help your grass recover quickly, making it stronger and less susceptible to disease.