Landscapers Advise Against Cutting Lawns Too Short

Homeowners aiming to reduce mowing frequency by cutting their grass very short are advised by lawn care professionals that this practice, known as "scalping," can negatively impact turf health. This method stresses the grass, encourages weed proliferation, and can attract pests. Instead, landscapers recommend maintaining a slightly taller grass height, proper mowing timing, and well-maintained equipment to achieve a healthier lawn.

The ideal grass height varies based on geographic region and grass type. For cool-season grasses like fescue and Kentucky bluegrass found in Northern regions, lawn expert Garrett Lang of Lex Lawn & Irrigation suggests cutting no lower than 3.5 inches, with an ideal height of 4 inches, and even up to 4.75 inches for his own lawn. Warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda and St. Augustine, common in Southern areas, thrive between 1.5 to 2.5 inches. These grasses can tolerate shorter cuts but still benefit from moderate height during dry periods.

Regardless of grass type or region, a crucial rule of thumb is to never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing session. Lang explains that grass blades are essential for photosynthesis, acting like "solar panels" that generate energy for the plant. Cutting more than a third deprives the grass of necessary surface area, hindering its ability to create energy and maintain health. This practice also prevents sunlight from reaching the soil, creating a shaded environment similar to a dense forest canopy, which limits the grass's access to sunlight for photosynthesis.