Mowing is the most vital task for maintaining a flawless lawn. Grass is incredibly dynamic and acclimates to the height and frequency with which it’s cut. Drastically changing your mowing regime can distress your turf, resulting in yellowing, stunted growth, or even plant death. The green leaves tolerate sunlight, but the shaded bases are sensitive. Exposing those tender tissues to sun through severe cutting can scorch the lawn. Scorched areas slowly recover, if at all. Though deeper roots require taller grass, depths beyond 20mm provide no additional benefit.

When to First Mow New Sod

Most homeowners wait too long before that first mow. Cutting when the new turf first reaches 25mm—the ideal mowing height for lush density—is best.

You might need to mow only 2-3 days after installation. Before using a rotary mower, ensure roots securely anchor the fresh sod since blade airflow could shift the turf. Ideally, trim your lawn whenever it surpasses 30mm.

Optimal Mowing Height

Your preferred height is personal. However, cutting below 25mm stresses grass, allowing more weeds and necessitating more maintenance. Initially mow new growth at 25mm for superb appearance. If desired, gradually increase height over time.

Conversely, if you allow the lawn to overgrow, incrementally lower the blades over several mows back to your target length. Never remove more than one third of blade length in one session.

Mowing Frequency

Mowing frequency varies with seasons, fertility, irrigation, and more. The amount of clippings indicates proper timing: few cuttings means you’re mowing sufficiently often.

No harm comes from cuts every few days in the growing season. In fact, you can mow twice a week with no ill effects! Trim whenever your turf exceeds 30mm for lush, even coverage and a healthy lawn.

To Bag or Not to Bag

Bagging clippings is only required if they completely coat the grass, blocking sunlight. Small amounts of trimmings quickly decompose, enriching the soil. You’ll actually boost your turf’s health by leaving them. Clippings don’t create thatch buildup.

On the contrary, they generate a fine organic layer, slowing thatch development. However, you can remove clippings without significantly impacting nutrient levels or growth. Only overgrown lawns result in troublesome cuttings.

Choosing the Best Mower

Cordless, battery-powered mowers are ideal. Without power cords or noisy, smelly gas engines, cordless models provide maximum freedom and environmental benefit.

Battery life ranges from 30 to 70 minutes, enough time to trim average-sized gardens with juice to spare. Many include removable batteries you can conveniently swap on the go. Cordless mowers match the quality and performance of gas, making them the top pick for pristine turf.

In Conclusion

Follow these best practices when mowing new sod and you’ll enjoy a flawless, emerald lawn all season. Resist cutting too soon while roots establish or letting your grass overgrow. Mow frequently, removing just the top third of blade length.

Feel free to leave small clippings that nourish your turf or collect them without affecting nutrient levels. And cut with a quiet, fume-free cordless mower for unmatched convenience. Stick to these simple rules and you’ll love the lush carpet of green thriving right in your own backyard.