Lawn Mowing and Maintenance in Cincinnati

If you have a yard, you know having a good-looking expanse of green lawn takes planning and effort. There’s more to lawn mowing and maintenance in Cincinnati than simply dragging out the mower once a week. It’s important to mow correctly to help your lawn thrive.

Mowing Height

One of the best ways to maintain a healthy lawn is to mow your grass at the proper height. Cutting the grass too short puts stress on the root system and the grass blades. Strong, healthy roots help fend off weeds and disease. Longer grass also holds more moisture and protects roots from the summer sun.

Mowing height will depend on your type of grass. Kentucky bluegrass — either by itself or with a mixture of other grasses in supporting roles — is the most common in Cincinnati. Bluegrass shouldn’t be mowed any shorter than 2 ½ to 3 inches. Tall and fine fescue is also popular. These grasses shouldn’t be mowed any shorter than 3 or 3 ½ inches. Virtually all lawn mowers have adjustable blades to help you achieve the proper height for your lawn.

Keep in mind the one-third principle: Don’t mow any more than one-third of your lawn in any one mow. If your grass is too tall or you’re behind on lawn mowing chores, cut your lawn in increments to stay within the one-third rule.

Mowing Frequency

Wait until the grass is at least 3 inches tall before mowing for the first time in the spring. You should mow your lawn weekly, especially during the early growing season. In the heat of summer, when grass growth tends to slow, you may only need to mow every other week. Put the mower away when the grass stops growing in the fall. This is usually in early to mid-November in Cincinnati, when temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Mulch grass clippings instead of bagging them. The cut blades of grass help fertilize your lawn. They also add extra moisture and protect the soil from the summer heat.

Fertilize

Fertilizing is an integral part of maintaining a healthy lawn. Fertilize in the spring and the fall for best results. Spread the first application in the spring when the temperature reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This can happen in March or April, depending on the year, so be ready! It’s too hot to use fertilizer in the summer, and doing so can damage your grass.

Fall is the most important time to fertilize your lawn. Late-fall fertilization will help your grass survive the winter with strong roots. Some of the fertilizer will still be active when spring rolls around again, and your lawn will wake up healthy and green.

Water

The best time to water your lawn is early morning. This gives the soil a chance to absorb the water before it evaporates in the afternoon heat. Your grass will also have enough time to dry by nightfall. Leaving too much water on the grass overnight can lead to fungal disease and rot. 

Unlike many U.S. cities, the plentiful water of the Ohio River means Cincinnati has no permanent watering restrictions.

Your lawn needs at least an inch of water each week. Water deeply twice a week, rather than shorter waterings each day. This allows the soil and roots to soak up the much-needed moisture. If it rains, cut back on how much you run your sprinklers.

Lawn mowing and maintenance in Cincinnati is an ongoing process, but it doesn’t need to be complicated. Using these tips will give you a healthy and thriving lawn to enjoy all season long.

Still have questions about your lawn? Visit our Cincinnati, OH, lawn care page.