Mowing the lawn seems fairly straightforward. Just mow when the grass gets long. Right?
Unfortunately, that is not the case. It’s important to follow a few general lawnmowing guidelines – if you don’t, you could be causing significant damage to your grass.

So what should you not do when mowing the lawn? We’ll share a few tips from Family Handyman below.
Don’t Cut Too Much At Once
If your grass has grown long, don’t try to cut off a large length in one shot. Mow some of the length, wait a few days, then finish the job. This is less stressful for grass.
Don’t Cut Wet Grass
Putting it simply: mowing a wet lawn makes a huge mess. Not only will the wet grass stick to everything, but the mower wheels may leave ruts. Further, the clippings can more easily clump together, smothering the grass underneath.
Don’t Mow in the Same Direction Each Time
Mowing in the same direction every time you cut the lawn can cause lasting damage. Your lawn may develop permanent tracks from the mower wheels, and grass may start to grow at an angle. Change up your path every time you mow.
Don’t Mow With a Dull Blade
When mower blades are dull, they rip through grass instead of cleanly slicing the blades. This causes stress and damage to the lawn. Sharpen your blades regularly – or let Broadway Rental sharpen them for you!
Don’t Cut the Grass Too Short
There are many benefits to keeping grass a little bit longer. Long blades shade and cool the soil, which prevent weeds and keeps soil from drying out. Longer grass also provides more nutrients for the soil and the grass itself.
Don’t Remove Grass Clippings
Many people remove grass clippings for less mess and a better appearance. But clippings are highly beneficial for grass by providing high amounts of nitrogen and microorganisms.
Don’t Forget to Dethatch
We explain dethatching and its importance in a recent blog post.
Broadway Rental is here to help with all your lawn and garden needs! We rent lawnmowers and sharpen blades, and have the right equipment to solve any lawn issue. Visit our rental catalog to learn more!
From trailers to scaffolding, trimmers and mowers, saws, skid steers and more, Broadway Rental has the affordable rental tools and equipment you need for your next lawn and garden or remodeling project. Check out our full Minneapolis rental equipment catalog to find the right tools, and get in touch to get started today.