Grass needs sunlight, water, and nutrients to grow and look its best. It grows fastest when it is well-watered and fed, but its health also depends on factors such as mowing height, weather conditions, and soil type.
During hot or dry periods, grass can become stressed, leading to a thinning appearance and weeds. Some people think that cutting grass short will promote healthy growth, but this is not necessarily true. In fact, mowing too often or cutting the lawn at the wrong length can actually be damaging to grass health and can even lead to its death.
When grass is cut too short, it is unable to manufacture enough energy to fight off diseases and insects, as well as retain moisture. Additionally, reducing the amount of sun that hits the grass reduces its ability to photosynthesize, which means less food for the plant. The short leaf area also increases the chance of weed infestation as it makes it easier for weeds to germinate and thrive in the light-deprived environment.
Generally, cool-season grasses like Fescue and Ryegrass perform better when kept at a higher height. Taller grass helps keep the soil cooler and more even, conserving moisture and reducing the chance of drought. It also helps deter weeds by shading them out, and it provides an additional layer of protection against erosion from wind and rain. When it is cut at the proper height, grass can provide a beautiful and green lawn.
