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Maintaining a lush, green lawn during a drought can be challenging. However, with the right mower techniques, you can help conserve water while keeping your lawn healthy. This article explores effective mowing strategies to help your grass withstand dry conditions.
Understanding Your Lawn’s Needs During Drought
During a drought, grass becomes stressed due to lack of water. It is essential to adjust your mowing practices to reduce stress and promote resilience. Proper mowing can help retain soil moisture and prevent unnecessary water loss.
Optimal Mowing Height
Raising the mower height is one of the most effective techniques during drought conditions. Cutting grass taller provides shade to the soil, reducing evaporation and keeping the roots cooler. Aim to set your mower to at least 3 inches for most grass types.
Benefits of Taller Mowing
- Protects soil moisture
- Encourages deeper root growth
- Reduces weed invasion
Frequency of Mowing
During drought, avoid cutting grass too frequently. Allow the grass to grow slightly longer between mowings, which helps maintain shade and moisture. Mow only when necessary, typically once every 7-10 days depending on growth.
Blade Sharpness and Cutting Technique
Using sharp blades ensures a clean cut, reducing stress on the grass. Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting it, making it more susceptible to disease and dehydration. Always check and sharpen your mower blades regularly.
Proper Cutting Technique
- Set mower to the appropriate height
- Cut in dry conditions to prevent clumping
- Avoid removing more than one-third of the grass height at a time
Additional Tips for Drought Conditions
Combine mowing techniques with other drought-tolerant practices for best results. These include watering early in the morning, using drought-resistant grass varieties, and reducing foot traffic on the lawn.
Watering Tips
- Water deeply but infrequently
- Apply water early in the morning
- Use mulch to retain soil moisture
By adopting these mower techniques and complementary practices, you can help your lawn survive and even thrive during periods of drought. Proper care not only conserves water but also promotes a healthy, resilient lawn.