How Often You Should Mow in the Treasure Valley and Why It Matters
Published: May 15, 2024 | By: Lawn Care Kuna Team | Category: Lawn Maintenance
Tags: lawn mowing, mowing frequency, lawn maintenance, idaho lawn care
Why Mowing Frequency Matters for Idaho Lawns
Mowing frequency affects nearly every aspect of lawn health - from root depth and density to weed control and disease resistance. In the Treasure Valley, where we grow cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass, proper mowing frequency changes dramatically throughout the growing season based on temperature, moisture, and growth rates.
The common approach of mowing "every weekend" regardless of actual growth creates problems. Grass grows at different rates through the season, and rigid schedules lead to either scalping during peak growth or waiting too long during slower periods.
The One-Third Rule: Foundation of Proper Mowing
What the One-Third Rule Means
The single most important mowing principle is never removing more than one-third of grass blade height in a single mowing.
Here's how it works:
- If you maintain grass at 3 inches, mow when it reaches 4.5 inches (removing 1.5 inches)
- If you maintain grass at 2.5 inches, mow when it reaches 3.75 inches (removing 1.25 inches)
- Never let grass grow so tall that removing one-third still leaves it too long
Why This Rule Matters
Removing more than one-third of blade height at once stresses grass significantly:
- Photosynthesis disruption: Grass uses blade surface area to produce energy
- Root system damage: Severe mowing shocks grass into slowing root growth
- Weed opportunity: Scalped grass allows more sunlight to reach soil, promoting weed seeds
- Disease susceptibility: Stressed grass is vulnerable to disease and pest problems
Our professional mowing service adjusts visit frequency through spring to maintain perfect height without stressing your lawn.
Seasonal Mowing Frequency Guide
Spring (April-May): Peak Growth Period
Recommended frequency: Every 4-7 days
Spring brings rapid growth as grass emerges from dormancy into ideal growing conditions. This is when Treasure Valley lawns require the most frequent mowing.
Mid-Late Summer (July-August): Slowest Growth
Recommended frequency: Every 7-14 days (sometimes longer)
Peak summer heat slows cool-season grass growth dramatically. When temperatures regularly exceed 90-100°F, grass enters semi-dormancy or grows very slowly.
Fall (September-October): Second Growth Peak
Recommended frequency: Every 5-8 days
As temperatures moderate back into the 70s and 80s, grass enters a second growth surge. Fall growth requires increased mowing frequency compared to summer.
Optimal Mowing Height Throughout the Season
| Season | Ideal Height | Growth Rate | Mowing Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Spring (April) | 2.5-3 inches | Moderate and increasing | Every 5-7 days |
| Late Spring (May) | 2.5-3 inches | Peak growth | Every 4-5 days |
| Peak Summer (July-Aug) | 3.5-4 inches | Very slow or dormant | Every 7-14 days |
| Fall (Sept-Oct) | 2.5-3 inches | Moderate | Every 5-8 days |
Common Mowing Frequency Mistakes
The "Weekly" Schedule Regardless of Growth
Many homeowners mow every Saturday whether grass needs it or not. This rigid schedule results in removing too little during peak growth or too much during slow periods. Mow based on grass height and growth, not calendar dates.
Scalping to Reduce Mowing Frequency
Some people cut grass very short hoping to extend time between mowings. This severely damages grass through multiple mechanisms and creates problems that require more work to fix.
Get on the Right Mowing Schedule
Proper mowing frequency is one of the most important factors in lawn health. Adjusting frequency based on seasonal growth patterns creates healthier, more attractive lawns that resist weeds and tolerate stress.
Need help maintaining the perfect mowing schedule? Get a free quote for our professional mowing service. We serve homeowners throughout Kuna, Meridian, Boise, Eagle, Star, Nampa, and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I mow my lawn in Idaho during summer?
During peak summer heat (July-August), grass grows slowly and typically needs mowing every 7-14 days. Some weeks during extreme heat, grass may not need mowing at all. Always follow the one-third rule.
What is the one-third rule for mowing?
The one-third rule means never removing more than one-third of grass blade height in a single mowing. For example, if you maintain 3-inch grass, mow when it reaches 4.5 inches. This prevents stress and promotes healthy growth.
Can I mow less often by cutting grass shorter?
No, cutting grass shorter (scalping) creates more problems than it solves. Short grass has poor drought tolerance, shallow roots, increased weed pressure, and higher disease risk.
When should I do my last mow of fall?
Continue mowing through October and into November until grass stops growing. Your final mowing should leave grass at 2-2.5 inches - not too short (winter damage) and not too long (snow mold risk).
Is it better to mow in morning or evening?
Morning is generally best, especially during summer. Early morning provides comfortable conditions and allows grass to recover during cooler parts of the day. Avoid mowing wet grass or during peak afternoon heat.
How does mowing frequency affect weed control?
Proper mowing frequency creates thick, dense turf that naturally resists weeds by shading soil and preventing weed seed germination. Infrequent mowing stresses grass, creating thin spots where weeds establish.