What Height Should Grass Be Cut In Summer?

You should cut grass between 2.5 and 4 inches in the summer; however, knowing how short to cut grass depends heavily on the grass you're mowing. Warm-season grass is generally cut shorter than cool-season grass in summer. Notably, cutting grass at the right height in summer is critical for reducing turf stress and preventing weeds and diseases, according to Ohio State University.

If you've been asking, “How low should I cut my grass?” you've come to the right place. Our team at Mowrator has written this guide to help you know at which height you should mow your grass this summer and tips for precise lawn care. Let's dive right into it.

Key Takeaways

• Grass should be cut between 2 and 4 inches for cool-season grass and between 1 and 3 inches for warm-season grass in summer, depending on the specific turfgrass species.
• Do not cut more than one-third of the grass length at a time. This prevents stress, browning, and weakened root systems.
• Mow early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce heat stress and ensure a cleaner cut.

How Short Should I Cut My Grass in Summer?

You should mow your lawn between 2 and 4 inches if you have cool-season grass in summer, and between 1 and 3 inches for warm-season grass. The exact grass height depends on the turfgrass species, which we've included in a handy table for you to refer to:

How Short Should I Cut My Grass in Fall and Winter?

You should cut your grass shorter in fall and winter than in summer, usually between 1 and 2 inches. We've detailed a grass-cutting height chart below for you to refer to when cutting your lawn off-season.

How do You Mow Your Grass to the Correct Height?

Mowing your grass to the correct height in summer requires adjusting your mower height, carrying out regular maintenance, and sharpening your blades. When mowing lawns, whether in summer or not, never cut more than one-third of the grass's length at a time. Mowing more than a third of the grass at once can stress, which can lead to browning.

Before mowing, ensure your mower's height is set to the length of the grass you are cutting. Your mower height will tend to be higher for cool-season grasses and lower for warm-season grasses. The best strategy for mowing the grass to the correct height also includes regular lawnmower maintenance, blade sharpening, and mower cleaning.

To mow your grass to the correct height, you’ll also need a lawn mower that's up to the task. Mowrator's S1 Remote Control Lawn Mower 4WD offers an adjustable mower height between 1.5 and 4.3 inches — perfect for warm- and cool-season grass cuts. Shop our range of remote-controlled lawnmowers today.

FAQs on What Height Should Grass Be Cut in Summer?

Is it better to have longer or shorter grass?

Longer grass is generally better for lawn health because it allows for increased photosynthesis. This leads to more muscular root systems that enhance drought resistance and nutrient absorption. Additionally, taller grass provides shade for the soil, which reduces evaporation and minimizes weed growth, contributing to a healthier and more resilient lawn.

What is the best time of day to cut grass in hot weather?

The best time to cut grass in hot weather is early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler, ideally between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. Mowing at these times reduces stress on the grass and allows for a cleaner cut, as the blades are drier and less prone to damage.

Does cutting grass low make it thicker?

Yes, cutting grass lower will make it thicker because the blades will have more lateral growth. Never cut more than a third of your grass blades at once, as this can cause patchiness and browning of your grass. Instead, you should cut only a third or less of the blade's length at a time to promote thicker growth over multiple mowing sessions.

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