Mowing is the most basic yet most important cultural practice to consider when developing a management plan. Mowing practices impact turf density, texture, color, root development, and wear tolerance. Failure to mow properly will result in weakened turf with poor density and quality. Proper mowing height is a function of the cultivar being managed and of the intended use of the site. Other factors influencing mowing height include mowing frequency, shade, mowing equipment, time of year, root growth, and abiotic and biotic stress. For example, mowing frequency affects turfgrass growth habit. Frequent mowing increases tillering and shoot density, but also decreases root and rhizome growth. Therefore, mowing practices should balance these two physiological responses to allow quick turf recovery through decisions related to height of cut, frequency, and mowing patterns. Mowing too infrequently results in alternating cycles of vegetative growth followed by scalping, which further depletes food reserves of the plants.
Next: Height of Cut
