Carmel

Why Mowing Height Matters More Than You Think

When it comes to lawn care, most homeowners focus on how often to mow or how to get perfect stripes. But one factor that’s frequently overlooked and makes a bigger difference than you might realize is your mowing height. Cutting your grass too short or letting it grow too tall can dramatically affect the health, appearance, and resilience of your lawn.

At Rooted Lawn & Landscape, we understand that choosing the correct mowing height is crucial. Here’s why it matters and how to get it right.

The One-Third Rule

A key principle for maintaining lawn health is to never remove more than one-third of the grass blades in a single cut. Removing too much can shock the plant, resulting in brown patches, weak roots, and a higher risk of disease.

Example:
If your grass is 4 inches tall, cut it down to a height of no shorter than 2.5–3 inches.

Taller Grass Means Deeper Roots

Mowing grass at the recommended height, usually 3 to 4 inches in summer, encourages the development of deeper roots. Deeper roots enable your lawn to:

Better resist drought and heat stress
Absorb more nutrients and water
Naturally fend off pests and diseases

Conversely, short grass promotes shallow roots that dry out quickly.

Mowing Height as a Weed Barrier

Did you know that your mowing height can serve as a natural weed control? Taller grass shades the soil surface, making it more difficult for weeds like crabgrass or dandelions to germinate and spread.

Enhances Lawn Appearance

A properly mown lawn looks healthier and more attractive. Cutting too short (scalping) often causes grass to turn brown, whereas slightly taller grass remains lush and green longer between mowing sessions.

Adjusting for Seasons

Your mowing height should vary throughout the year:

Spring and Fall: 2.5 to 3 inches for healthy growth.
Summer: 3 to 4 inches to protect against heat and drought.
Final fall mow: A bit lower to prevent snow mold.

Why Choose Rooted Lawn & Landscape?

We prioritize mowing because we know it’s fundamental to a healthy lawn. Our weekly mowing services in Indianapolis, Westfield, Carmel, Zionsville, Noblesville, Fishers, and nearby areas aim to keep your lawn at its best all season: