Introduction
Keeping a lush, green lawn is not just about aesthetics; it reflects the care and attention you give to your outdoor space. At GaraFraxa, we recognize the significance of a well-maintained lawn, particularly during the summer months. In Guelph, grass cutting is a vital part of lawn care that ensures your lawn stays healthy, vibrant, and free from weeds. This guide will offer you detailed tips on how to effectively cut your grass during the summer, ensuring your lawn flourishes all season long.
Importance of Regular Grass Cutting
Regular grass cutting is essential for a healthy lawn. Each trim encourages the growth of thick, sturdy grass blades, giving your lawn a lush look. Additionally, consistent mowing helps prevent weeds and boosts the grass’s resistance to diseases. By mowing regularly and employing proper techniques, you can enhance the grass’s resistance to fungal infections and other common lawn problems.
Choosing the Right Equipment
Using the appropriate equipment is key to effective grass cutting. Here are some tips for selecting and maintaining your lawn mower:
- Sharp Blades: Ensure your lawnmower blades are sharp for clean cuts. Sharp blades reduce trauma to the grass, allowing it to heal quickly and remain less vulnerable to diseases.
- Type of Lawnmower: Depending on your lawn’s size and your personal preference, you can choose from battery-powered, petrol engine, push-type, or self-propelled lawn mowers. Select a mower with a width that matches the area you are working on for maximum efficiency.
- Avoid Wet Grass: Never cut wet grass. Wet grass can clog the mower blades and lead to an uneven cut. Always mow when the grass is dry.
How Much Should You Cut?
The amount of grass you cut is crucial for its health. Generally, you should never cut more than one-third of the grass blade’s height at a time. During the summer, it’s advisable to keep the grass slightly taller to help it withstand the heat and drought conditions typical of Guelph summers. Here are the recommended heights for different grass species:
- Festuca: 10-15 cm
- Lolium: 8 cm
- Poa: 7 cm
- Cynodon dactylon: 6 cm
Taller grass offers better protection against heat, drought, and diseases. It also helps retain soil moisture and protects the growth point of the grass blades.
When to Cut Your Grass
The frequency of grass cutting is influenced by various factors, such as the type of grass, the purpose of the lawn, the season, and the amount of irrigation and fertilization it receives. From June to September, it is advisable to let the grass grow a little taller and reduce the mowing frequency. A general guideline is to mow every 10-20 days during these months. The best time to cut your grass in hot weather is in the late afternoon, after 5 pm, when temperatures are lower.
After Mowing Care
Post-mowing care is essential to maintaining a neat and healthy lawn. After mowing, trim the edges along walls, paths, and around trees and flower beds using traditional grass shears or a brush cutter. Regularly cleaning and servicing your lawnmower is also crucial to keep it in optimal working condition.
Tips to Help Your Lawn Beat the Heat
To keep your lawn healthy and vibrant during Guelph’s hot summer months, consider the following tips:
- Watering: Deep, infrequent watering encourages deep root growth. According to local recommendations, water your lawn once a week, applying about 1 inch of water. Use a sprinkler and place a measuring cup at a distance to measure the water. Typically, it takes 45 minutes to an hour to provide 1 inch of water.
- Feeding: Feed your lawn regularly to maintain soil nutrient levels. Apply fertilizer every 6 to 8 weeks, but avoid doing so during drought conditions or when the lawn is dormant.
Professional Grass Cutting Services
If you want to have the best results, hiring a professional grass-cutting service is a good choice. At GaraFraxa, we offer expert grass-cutting services in Guelph to ensure your lawn receives the best care. We are experienced professionals equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to handle all your lawn care needs. We provide customized lawn care programs tailored to your property’s requirements, including weeding, pruning, trimming, and nurturing.