Mowing new Kentucky Bluegrass (KBG) for the first time is critical for ensuring the grass establishes a strong, healthy foundation.

The right timing for this initial mow primarily hinges on the grass reaching the appropriate height, which plays a pivotal role in its development and overall health.

Ideal Height for the First Cut:

The first mowing should occur when your KBG lawn reaches about 3 inches (about 7.6 cm) in height.

This height is crucial as it indicates the grass has sufficiently established roots strong enough to sustain mowing without causing damage.

Subsequent Mowing Frequency and Height Adjustments:

After the first cut, maintaining your lawn at a consistent height of 2.5 to 3 inches (approximately 6.4 to 7.6 cm) is advisable.

This range supports optimal health, allowing KBG to develop a thick, lush appearance.

Furthermore, it’s essential to adhere to the one-third rule, never removing more than one-third of the blade height at a time to prevent undue stress on the grass.

Key Mowing Guidelines for Kentucky Bluegrass

• Sharp Mower Blades: Utilize sharp blades to ensure clean cuts, reducing the risk of tearing the grass and making it susceptible to disease.
• Clippings Management: Leaving clippings on the lawn can be beneficial as they decompose, returning valuable nutrients to the soil, provided they don’t smother the grass.
• Mower Height Adjustment: Regularly adjust your mower height to correspond with the growth rate of the grass, ensuring the one-third rule is consistently applied.

FAQs on Mowing Kentucky Bluegrass

Q: How soon after planting can I mow new Kentucky Bluegrass?
A: Wait until the grass is about 3 inches tall before the first mow to ensure it has developed a strong root system.

Q: Why is it important to mow KBG at 3 inches tall?
A: Mowing at this height helps the grass establish a deeper root system, contributing to a healthier and more resilient lawn.

Q: What should I do with the grass clippings?
A: Clippings can be left on the lawn to decompose and naturally fertilize your lawn, as long as they’re not thick enough to smother the grass.

Q: How frequently should I mow KBG during peak growing seasons?
A: During peak growth, you may need to mow as often as once a week, ensuring you never remove more than one-third of the blade height with each mow.

Q: Can mowing height affect the health of my KBG lawn?
A: Yes, maintaining the correct mowing height encourages a denser lawn and better weed control, contributing to the overall health of your KBG lawn.

In Summary

• First mow new Kentucky Bluegrass when it reaches 3 inches in height, reducing it to about 2 inches.
• Use sharp mower blades for clean cuts and manage clippings appropriately to benefit the lawn.
• Regular mowing, adhering to the one-third rule, is crucial for maintaining lawn health.

Sources and Further Reading

• For comprehensive insights into Kentucky Bluegrass care, including mowing practices, refer to Pennington’s Complete Guide to Kentucky Bluegrass.
• Additional details on planting and caring for bluegrass seed, particularly mowing tips, can be found at Outsidepride’s Bluegrass Planting Instructions.