How to Easily Mow a Lawn | Lowe's (2024)

FAQs

What is the easiest mowing pattern? ›

Circular Mowing Pattern

Concentric circles use the same time-saving technique as mowing in stripes: it's all about the turns. Mowing in concentric circles reduces turns and makes the turns wider, so you spend less time maneuvering the mower.

Mow up and down in straight lines

Overlap each row slightly so you don't miss bits. With an irregularly shaped lawn, start with a line across the middle, then mow one side at a time.

It's generally accepted that the best speed for effective mowing is in the 3-6 mph range. Going too fast can actually result in an uneven cut. How? As the leading edge of the deck pushes the grass forward, the grass doesn't have time to stand back up before being cut because the mower is moving so fast.

Mow First

By mowing first, you know how short to trim grass along edges and will be less likely to scalp those areas, giving rise to bare or weedy patches.

For the straightest lawn striping, find a straight driveway or path to follow. Mow the first stripe parallel to it. When you come to the end of that stripe, make a tight turn with your mower, or raise the mower deck. Mow the next row in the opposite direction.

Never mow wet or frosty grass

This can damage your turf and compact the soil. Wait until later in the day when the lawn has dried out or defrosted, or postpone mowing to another day.

Grass needs the benefit of the day to dry and heal before dusk settles. Since mowing your grass in the early morning can damage it and mowing it during the early afternoon can burn it because of all the high temperatures, the ideal time is mid-morning. That is of course if you're free during that time of day.

Don't remove any more than 20% of the grass in the first cut. You can reduce the length very gradually over several cuts. The leaves are what power the plant, they create food from sunlight. When young plants are growing fast and establishing roots, they need to be well-nourished otherwise they become pale and weak.

How can I make mowing easier? ›

Mowing in rows is one of the fastest, most efficient way to cut your lawn. The size and shape of your yard plays a part in what direction the rows should go. If your yard is more wide, mow in horizontal rows to cover the longest part of your lawn with the least amount of turns.

While there is no definitive answer, it is often found that doing the edges first can be easier and leave a cleaner appearance. Doing the edges first will mean that the excess clippings from the edges will then get cleaned up when the mower goes over the top of them, making the clean up a lot easier and quicker.

Great: Mowing during mid-morning (8 a.m. to 10 a.m.)

Mid-morning mowing is the healthiest for your grass. It meets all the conditions we mentioned earlier: dry grass, cooler temperatures, and enough time to recover.