Factors That Affect How Often You Mow

1. Grass Type: The same grass type will have the same growth type upon growth but based on they're fast they can germinate. The cool-season grass grows the fastest in spring and fall, and the warm-season grass grows best in summer. This is vital because how often you mow will ultimately depend on your grass type.

2. Grass Growth Rate: The increment in grass growth is affected by weather parameters, the type of soil, fertilization, etc. In optimal growing conditions, you may need to mow weekly or even biweekly. When the growth of grass is slow, such as during dry seasons or winter, it is best not to mow.

3. Mowing Height: Always follow the “one third rule”, which means, never remove more than one third of the grass height while mowing. Mowing too low puts the grass under stress, leaving it in a more precarious position against disease and weeds.

4. Season: The season of the year influences the frequency of mowing. Grass grows faster in spring and summer and therefore requires more frequent cutting. Growth slows in fall, and you may not need to mow at all in winter, depending on where you live.

Recommended Mowing Frequency

1. Spring and Summer: In the active growing season, mow once a week or every 5-7 days. You may have to mow twice a week if your grass grows really fast.

2. Fall: Grass growth slows as the temperatures cool. Mow every 10–14 days for a lawn that is typically more than adequate.

3. Winter: In most areas, grass goes dormant in winter and does not need mowing. In warmer climes where grass grows year round, however, you will want to mow periodically.

Tips of Lawn Mowing

1. Sharpen Your Mower Blades: Dull blades pull the grass apart, instead of cutting them cleanly, making the grass ragged. And you need to replace your blades at least once a season.

2. Alternate Directions: This will keep the soil from compacting and it will allow the grass to grow better.

3. Leave Grass Clippings: The grass you mow, the green organic matter can serve as a natural fertilizer, which proponents call “grass cycling” and can reduce the need and demand of supplemental fertilization.

4. Do Not Mow Grass in Wet Condition: Wet grass tends to clog your mower and results in an uneven cutting surface. For best results, wait until the grass is dry.

5. Set Mower Height: Set your mower to the height needed for the type of grass you have. Cut too short and you can damage the grass, and if too high the lawn looks shaggy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Infrequent Mowing: There will be a point at which you wait too long to mow, overgrown grass is much more difficult to cut and your mower will not thank you for it.

2. Neglecting Lawn Health: Lawn care goes beyond mowing. Skipping watering, fertilization and aeration can all undermine your hard work to keep a healthy lawn.

Ultimately, how often you mow your backyard lawn will vary based on many factors including grass type, growth rate, and seasonal changes. Maintaining a healthy, attractive lawn with the one-third rule can be done if you alter the way you mow based on these differences. By regularly mowing and maintaining your lawn with seasonal grass care, you can enjoy your yard all year long.