First cut
The 1/3 Rule
The first time you cut your new lawn, it is important never to mow more than 1/3 of the blade. This rule helps the lawn recover better after installation.
Advice Article
How high should you cut your lawn?
Mowing height directly influences the health of your lawn. For a new lawn, it's important to mow at the right time, avoid periods of high stress like heatwaves, and adjust the height according to the season and weather conditions.
Mowing Time
For a new lawn, the first cut should be done approximately 1 to 2 weeks after the sod installation. During a heatwave, avoid mowing your lawn, as this adds extra stress to the lack of water and heat.
Key takeaways
The first mow is generally done 1 to 2 weeks after sod installation.
Never cut more than 1/3 of the blade during the first mow.
During a prolonged heatwave, it is best to avoid mowing altogether.
Mowing Height
What height should be preferred depending on the period?
A good cutting height helps the lawn remain dense, more resistant, and better adapted to seasonal changes. After the first cut, it is recommended to maintain a regular height while adjusting it according to conditions.
Daily
3 inches
Then, we advise you to maintain a height of 3 inches, except for Sports and Fescue lawn varieties, which may require a different adjustment.
Seasonally
2 to 4 inches
In spring and fall, a 2-inch cut is optimal. During dry periods, a longer 4-inch cut is recommended to better protect the lawn.
Heatwave
During intense heat, it's better to avoid mowing
During prolonged heatwaves, as the lawn goes dormant, it is best to avoid mowing altogether. This prevents adding additional stress to a lawn already suffering from heat and lack of water.
Practical advice
Good habits for successful mowing
Beyond cutting height, a few good habits help achieve a cleaner, more uniform, and healthier result for your lawn.
1
Wait for the right time
Allow about 1 to 2 weeks after sod installation before the first mow, to allow the lawn to settle properly.
2
Keep a sharp blade
Make sure your mower blade is always sharp to get a clean cut and avoid damaging grass blades.
3
Sharpen it annually
Generally, you should have your blade sharpened once a year to maintain optimal cutting quality throughout the season.
Summary
Good habits for mowing your lawn
An appropriate height and mowing at the right time contribute to keeping a stronger and more beautiful lawn.
Start at the right time
The first cut should be done approximately 1 to 2 weeks after sod installation.
Adjust the height
Keep it around 3 inches normally, 2 inches in spring and fall, and 4 inches during dry periods.
Avoid unnecessary stress
During prolonged heatwaves, it's better to avoid mowing altogether and keep the blade sharp all season.
Need help maintaining your lawn?
Our team can help you choose the right sod and adopt the best maintenance practices to keep your lawn dense, healthy, and impeccable throughout the season.