7 Steps to Mow a Lawn Properly
If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a right way to mow your lawn… the answer is yes! Mowing may seem simple—start the mower, push it around—but to mow a lawn properly can make a big difference in how your lawn looks and how healthy it stays.
At GrowsMows, we’ve learned that the best-looking lawns come from following a few basic rules. Whether you’re trying to keep up with your neighbors or just want a yard you enjoy looking at, here’s your step-by-step guide to mowing like a pro.
Step 1: Start with the Right Mower Height
One of the most common mistakes we see is cutting grass too short. It might feel like you can wait longer before the next mow, but it’s actually not great for your lawn. Grass that’s cut too low becomes stressed, dries out faster, and makes it easier for weeds to take over.
Best Practice: Set your mower to cut at about 3 to 3.5 inches high. This keeps your grass strong, green, and better at fighting off weeds.
Step 2: Mow When the Grass Is Dry
We get it—sometimes you just want to check mowing off your to-do list, even if it rained that morning. But mowing wet grass can lead to clumping, uneven cuts, and even damage to your lawn.
Best Practice: Wait until the lawn is dry. A dry lawn allows for cleaner cuts and easier cleanup.
Step 3: Keep Your Mower Blades Sharp
Dull blades don’t cut—they tear. That’s why grass starts looking brown or frayed after mowing with worn-down blades. Sharp blades give you a crisp, clean cut that keeps your lawn looking fresh and tidy.
Best Practice: Sharpen your blades at the start of each mowing season, and again mid-season if you mow frequently.
Step 4: Change Up Your Mowing Pattern
Always mowing in the same direction? That’s totally normal… but it can lead to compacted soil and ruts in your lawn. Switching things up helps grass grow more evenly and prevents long-term damage.
Best Practice: Alternate mowing directions each time—go horizontal one week, vertical the next. You’ll get a cleaner, more uniform look.
Step 5: Don’t Cut More Than 1/3 of the Grass Height
This is one of those lawn care “golden rules.” Cutting too much at once can shock your grass and weaken its roots.
Best Practice: If your grass is super tall, mow a little off now and then again in a couple days. It’s better for your lawn—and easier on your mower, too.
Step 6: Mulch Your Clippings (Don’t Bag Them)
Unless your lawn is overgrown, you don’t need to bag up those clippings! Mulched clippings return valuable nutrients to the soil, which helps your lawn grow greener and healthier.
Best Practice: Use a mulching mower or just leave the clippings if they’re small. Your lawn will thank you.
Step 7: Finish with Clean Edges
Edging makes all the difference—it’s like the final touch that takes a yard from “pretty good” to “wow!” Clean edges around driveways, sidewalks, and garden beds give your lawn a professional, polished look.
Best Practice: Use a string trimmer or edging tool every few mows to keep things sharp and tidy.
Want a Great-Looking Lawn Without the Work? Call GrowsMows!
Let’s be honest—mowing your lawn properly takes time, attention to detail, and the right tools. If that’s not how you want to spend your weekend, GrowsMows is here to help.
We’re a local, teen-owned business right here in Lock Haven, offering affordable and reliable lawn care services with friendly, hard-working service you can count on.
From routine mowing to edging, mulching, leaf cleanup, snow removal, and more—we’ve got your yard covered.
👉 Ready to hand off the hassle and enjoy a beautiful yard?
Contact Cole at GrowsMows today to get on our schedule or request a free estimate.
📧 Email: Cole@GrowsMows.com
đź“Ť Serving: Lock Haven, PA and nearby neighborhoods
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