Having a great-looking lawn is easier than you might think. Experts agree that mowing, fertilisation and watering must work together.
A well-cared-for lawn tolerates Australian heat and drought far better than poorly cared grass. It’s also less prone to weed and bug problems. Leaving the grass a little longer in summer helps reduce evaporation and shading the soil so weeds can’t grow. For professional Adelaide lawn mowing services, check this out!
How often should I mow my lawn?
Mowing your lawn regularly is critical to maintaining healthy, vibrant and beautiful grounds. If you don’t prune often enough, your grass will become long and rambling, which invites disease and pests and makes your property unattractive. Mowing at the right height is also important, as cutting your lawn too short can damage it. Ideally, you should aim for between 2.5 cm and 6 cm in height. Leaving your grass a little longer than this in the cooler months or under-shaded areas can help to prevent it from becoming overgrown and encourage the growth of weeds.
If you don’t have time to mow your lawn regularly, many professional lawn mowing services can take care of it. These professionals can keep your property looking great all year round and will ensure that your grass is at the right length to encourage healthy growth.
The best time to mow your lawn is in the morning, which will allow the grass to dry up after the dew evaporates. However, some communities have laws against mowing before 8 am due to the noise factor, so it’s best to check local regulations before starting your mower.
In Adelaide, the best mowing frequency will depend on your climate and the type of grass. For example, Kikuyu grass must be mowed between 2cm and 5cm in full sun or light shade, while Buffalo grass can be cut at 3cm to 7cm. Both types of lawns need to be watered regularly to remain strong and healthy. To promote healthy lawns, you should use a complete lawn fertiliser such as OxaFert in early April (Autumn) or September (Spring).
What type of grass should I mow my lawn with?
When it comes to lawns, the type of turf you use is essential. Many varieties of grass are available, each with its specific qualities. Some are better suited to particular environments and soil types, while others can struggle in more challenging conditions. In ensuring your lawn looks its best, choosing a grass that’s right for your needs and the requirements in which you live is essential.
McKays has a wide range of lawn options to suit Adelaide homes. Our most popular choice is Sir Walter Buffalo, a warm-season variety perfectly adapted to the Australian climate. It’s easy to grow and has excellent wear, shade and drought tolerance, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like family yards. Sir Walter is also salt tolerant, meaning it can survive the harsh salty conditions in some coastal areas.
Regardless of your chosen grass, avoiding growing your lawn from seed is always best. It is because a purely seed-based property is much harder to maintain long-term. It’s also more susceptible to weeds, pests and diseases.
If you decide to go with a seed-based lawn, you must break up your mowing pattern and change the direction you mow regularly. It will help prevent the grass from becoming accustomed to one cutting direction and encourage a more even growth pattern.
Keeping your mower blades sharp is another critical factor in maintaining a healthy lawn. It will prevent ragged cuts and reduce the risk of scalping, where you cut too much off your property. It is also essential to practice mowing etiquette, such as being courteous to your neighbours. It will help avoid potential disputes, which can lead to your neighbour filing a noise complaint with the local council.
Changing the direction you mow in regularly is also a good idea. It will minimise ‘monotony’ and promote a healthier lawn by encouraging the grass to grow straight, making spotting weeds or pests easier.