If there is a "secret" to turf management, it is the more mowing the better.
Golf greens are the epitome of great turf and this is usually because they are mowed daily. Likewise, a sport’s field that is mowed three or more times per week will have a finer looking turf than one that is mowed once a week. And yes, you guessed right, the same can be said for your backyard.
There are several factors that influence the recommended mowing frequency. However, growth rate and mowing height are probably the most influential in maintaining a perfect lawn.
As a rule, Sunshine Coast Mowers recommend you mow often enough so that no more than 30 percent of the grass is removed at any one mowing.
By following that rule, photosynthesis (a process used by plants to convert light energy into chemical energy that can later be released to fuel the organisms' activities, such as growth) is only marginally affected by mowing. However, if 50 percent or more of the leaf is removed by mowing, several days are required to restore photosynthesis to its previous level.
In contrast, if only 10 percent of the leaf is removed by mowing, the effect on photosynthesis is insignificant. Therefore, to maintain optimum growth, frequent mowing is required.
In addition, frequent mowing also helps to maintain a high percentage of the leaf surface-a requirement for healthy root development.
When it comes to growth rate – another key factor in grass health – you must consider environmental factors.
Temperature has the greatest impact on growth rate. When temperatures favour growth, mowing frequency needs to be increased. Equally, when temperature stumps growth, mowing frequency can be reduced.
The day-length also influences mowing frequencies. During summer months (long days) leaf growth is upright; while during spring and autumn (short days) leaf growth is more decumbent. Consequently, mowing frequencies can be reduced during spring and autumn months.