Devin Jacobs
One thing the HOA always notices is the look of your lawn. Some neighbors have figured it out, but plenty still fall into the same trapācutting the grass way too short.
Frank Rossi, horticulture professor at Cornell, explains that grass blades work like solar panels, storing up energy for the roots. Chop them too short, and your lawn runs out of power fast, and this leaves the lawn weak, patchy, and stressed.
Why Go Taller?
A thicker lawn is natureās best defense against weeds. Rossi explains that taller grass blades shade the soil and make it difficult for dandelions and other intruders to sprout. The more cover your grass provides, the less open space weeds have to spread. That means fewer hours bent over pulling them out later.
Shaded Soil Holds Onto Water
You see the shade the soil gets from the taller grass? That helps with summer watering. Grass cut a little higher forms a canopy over the soil and holds shade where it matters most.
Rossi points out that this slows down evaporation to allow moisture to last longer between waterings. As you can see, such a simple change in mowing height helps lawns stay cooler and more resilient during hot stretches.
The 1/3rd Rule Keeps Mowing Simple
One of Rossiās clearest recommendations is the 1/3rd rule. Trim no more than one-third of the bladeās height at a time.
This habit keeps grass energy reserves steady, helps moisture stay put, and builds stronger roots. An added bonus? Following this rule often means mowing less oftenāsometimes a third less work each season.
Now, here comes the strategy to keep the grass taller:
How To Set Your Mower Height
Getting the proper cut starts with your mower settings. Many mowers, like those tested in the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, use a notched lever to adjust height in small increments.
So, to be precise, measure the bladeās distance from the ground on a flat surface. Take note that settings can be slightly off, so a ā4-inchā notch might give you a cleaner 3.5-inch cut.
While you are at it, be sure to avoid the following errors people still make;
- Using A Dull Blade
A blunt mower blade rips instead of slicing. That leaves ragged tips that dry out faster and attract disease. Experts recommend sharpening every 10 hours of mowing. Keep a spare blade handy so one can stay sharp while the other is being serviced.
- Bagging Clippings Instead Of Mulching
Those cuttings are free fertilizer. Experts note mulched clippings can reduce the need for added nutrients by up to 25%. Mulching also saves timeāno bagging, no hauling.
- Pulling Every Single Weed
Some weeds actually help your yard. Clover, for instance, feeds nitrogen back into the soil and supports turf health. A perfectly weed-free lawn often requires heavy chemicals, which may do more harm than good.
- Watering Too Often
A quick daily sprinkle doesnāt reach the roots. For this reason, it is recommended to do a deep soak once a week, or every few days in high summer. One inch of water is the target. Try using an empty tuna can as a simple gauge to know when youāve given enough.
Tying It All Together
Each pass of the mower is more than a choreāitās a choice that shapes the health of the yard. Rossiās advice offers a simple formula: mow a little higher, cut a little less, and enjoy a lawn that thrives without the extra effort.