5 Common Lawn Mowing Problems

Mowing your lawn in spring is one of those timeless Canadian traditions that just can't be beat. Especially when you can enjoy a cool glass of lemonade right after! 

Proper mowing can make a big difference in maintaining the condition of a healthy lawn. Mowing is often viewed as one of the most important and beneficial practices that you, as a home owner, can do for your grass. That's why it's important to follow along with the proper rules and regulations. 

Here at Nutri-Lawn Ottawa, we know that poor mowing practices and techniques can affect the condition of a lawn and cause unwanted problems. Here’s a list of things to avoid or eliminate from your mowing routine, starting this spring!

Dull Blades

Dull mower blades rip and tear the blades of grass making the plant weak and susceptible to disease and other stresses. The aesthetic appearance can also be affected, leaving the turf looking brown and unhealthy. 

Don't let this happen, folks! Make sure your blades are sharp and ready for spring. It is  recommended to sharpen your mower blades at least 2 times each season in anticipation for the busy period.

Excessive Clippings

Excessive clippings resulting in clumps of grass is a common problem when the lawn is mowed when its wet or if the mowing frequency is left to long in between mowings. This generally occurs when there are too many clippings for the blades to mulch evenly and clumps cover the lawn is a result. These clumps must be raked out or collected in a bagger to eliminate damage to the grass it is covering.

Scalping

Scalping generally occurs when the mowing height adjustment on the mower is set below the desired height of cut for the turfgrass. The grass blades are mowed off very short at the base exposing the stems and crowns of the plant. Accidental scalping can also occur when the lawn is very uneven or bumpy with low and high spots.

Trees 

Take special care and avoid running into the base of trees when mowing or trimming around them, as this can cause major damage to the health of the tree. Creating a small mulch tree ring around the base can help ensure a safe distance is kept around the tree.

Unwanted Mess 

Always mow along the bordering edges in a clockwise direction. This will ensure clippings are not dispersed directly into flower beds, landscape areas, or all over driveways and sidewalks.

Our lawn care blog is a great resource to find solutions for all these mowing problems. The lawn care experts at Nutri-Lawn Ottawa are always available for a free quote to address these common problems, or better yet, prevent them from happening in the first place. This summer, instead of fixing problems, why not just enjoy your lawn! Contact us today!