Mowing lawns can be difficult when your grass is too tall. With some species, like Kentucky Bluegrass, a height of 4” triggers the need for a more vigorous regrowth strategy to prevent damage from constant mowing.
Height is essential for optimizing turf quality, reducing weed pressure, and improving stress tolerance. But if left unchecked, grass will start to thin out or turn yellow due to increased competition between neighbors over limited resources.
The ideal mowing height depends on the type of grass you’re growing. Most cool-season lawns prefer heights between 2,” and 3.5” and warm-season turf up to 4”. Cutting less than recommended causes strain on the root system as well as shallow crown formation leading to turf death in extreme cases.
On the other hand, leaving it too high reduces light penetration, keeps soil temperature higher, and increases disease rates – particularly in home lawns subject to foot traffic and shade issues.
Overall, it’s important not to exceed 4” when mowing your lawn average since excessive stem growth allows weeds to compete with desirable grasses – thereby eroding beauty and posing public health hazards due to excessive pests or potential toxins.