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How often and how high should I mow my zoysia grass lawn?
How often and how high should I mow my zoysia grass lawn?
Mowing frequency and height are key maintenance practices in keeping grass uniform, attractive, and most importantly healthy. The height and frequency of the cut influences the health and vitality of grasses in many ways.
Warm-season grasses such as zoysia grass, should be mowed a minimum of once a week during the growing season. More frequent mowing may be required when growth is most active or if choosing a shorter cut. Mow frequently enough so that you remove no more than one- third of the total plant height in one mowing.
Mowing the grass when it is dry and changing the direction of mowing each time you cut the grass are good maintenance practices.
When it comes to height, zoysia grass is best mowed at heights of 1 to 2 inches above the soil line. The initial cut in the beginning of the season can be shorter to remove dead leaf tissue and increase the rate of green up.
To adjust your mower to the right height, place it on a hard surface and measure from the blade to the hard surface. In many cases, you will find that the highest setting on your lawn mower is the preferred cutting height.
Zoysia grass is harder to cut than cool-season grasses. It is important to have a sharp mower blade. Dull blades tear and fray the leaf tips rather than cutting them, and will give your lawn a tan or brownish appearance. Dull mower blades also take more power or fuel to operate.
Newly sodded zoysia grass lawns should not be allowed to grow excessively long before beginning mowing. Always follow the one-third rule mentioned above. Mowing at this time aids in the strengthening and thickening of the new grass.
When you cut the grass practice grasscycling and return the clippings to the lawn. For the benefits of grasscycling, see our FAQ on "Should I collect my grass clippings?"