Mowing Height

I have read where you recommend people keep their grass 2 1/2 to 3 or 3 to 3 1/2 inches tall. Which is correct?

The taller mowing height, 3 to 3 1/2 even 4 inches, is better for the grass but often difficult for homeowners. Taller grass has more leaf area to produce energy resulting in a healthier lawn. The healthier grass is better able to tolerate drought, resist pests and crowd out weeds. Gardeners used to a short sheared lawn may have trouble adjusting to the taller grass. This is why I often recommend 2 1/2 to 3 inches. After that adjustment an increase to 3 1/2 or 4 inches is no big deal. Still having trouble raising the mowing height? A grass expert out of Canada recommends raising the mowing height a 1/4" per season. You won't even notice the difference.

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