How to mow a lawn properly

Teach: How to mow a lawn properly

What to say

To mow a lawn properly, walk the yard first to pick up sticks and stones, set the deck so you never remove more than a third of the grass height in one cut, and mow when the grass is dry. Change direction each time, leave the clippings to feed the soil, and keep the blade sharp so it cuts cleanly instead of tearing.

What to show, in order

1. Walk the lawn and pick up sticks, stones, toys and dog waste the blade could throw.
2. Make sure children and pets are indoors, and wear closed shoes, long pants, eye and ear protection.
3. Set the cutting height so you take off no more than a third of the blade of grass; most lawns do well at about three inches.
4. Mow when the grass is dry, in the cooler part of the day.
5. Mow in straight, slightly overlapping rows, and change direction each time you mow.
6. On slopes, mow across the slope with a push mower, and follow the maker's slope rules for a riding mower.
7. Leave clippings on the lawn unless they clump, and sweep them off paths and the street.
8. Stop the engine and wait for the blade to stop before clearing a clog or crossing gravel.

When to stop and call a professional

• The slope is steep enough that you feel unstable standing on it: have it landscaped or use a service with the right equipment.
• The mower vibrates hard, the blade hits something solid, or fuel leaks.
• Any blade injury: press on the wound and call your local emergency number, 911 in the US.

The check question

Ask: How much of the grass height should one mow remove at most? Answer: About a third

From EveryManKnows. General information, not professional advice.