As lawn-mowing season kicks into high gear, now’s a good time to ask yourself: are you actually mowing your yard correctly? According to lawn care experts, even seasoned homeowners get a few things wrong — and those mistakes could be doing more harm than good.
Here are four common mowing errors, and how to correct them for a healthier, better-looking lawn.
It’s easy to fall into the habit of mowing in straight lines, back and forth, the same way each week. But if you’re always following the same pattern, you’re training your grass to lean — and grow — in one direction. Over time, this can compact the soil and weaken your lawn’s overall health.
The fix: Vary your mowing direction every time. If you mowed north-to-south last week, go east-to-west next time. It may feel weird at first, but your grass (and soil) will thank you.
Beginning your mow in the center might feel strategic, but it usually means you’ll double back across areas you’ve already covered. That’s not just inefficient — it also adds unnecessary wear and tear to your grass.
The fix: Start on one side of your yard and work your way across methodically. Aim to make a single pass over each section and avoid trampling freshly cut grass with heavy mower wheels.
A riding mower may look like a fun upgrade, but unless your yard is huge, it might be doing more harm than good. Riding mowers are harder to maneuver in tight spaces and can create uneven cuts if your lawn isn’t level.
The fix: For yards smaller than half an acre, stick to a push mower. You’ll get better precision, less fuel consumption, and potentially even a mini workout.
Dull blades don’t slice your grass cleanly — they tear it, leaving ragged edges that can turn brown and make your lawn more susceptible to disease.
The fix: Sharpen your blades at least once per season. You can grab a blade sharpener online for around $10. Just don’t overdo it — blades should be about as sharp as a kitchen knife, not razor-sharp, which can increase the risk of chipping if you hit a rock.
A well-manicured lawn isn’t just about aesthetics. Cutting your grass the right way keeps it healthy, helps it grow stronger, and reduces the need for extra maintenance. So before you fire up the mower this weekend, take a minute to rethink your routine. Your grass deserves better.
