Is it time to mow your lawn yet?
For many new homeowners across Illinois, this may not be common knowledge. Especially as spring passes through the region in full force, bringing with it lush grass and rapid growth.
So here’s a basic guide on lawn maintenance for Illinois homeowners, including how often, when and how short you should cut your grass.
How often should you mow your lawn in Illinois?
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign recommends mowing at the rate of your grass growth, being sure to avoid cutting more than one-third of your grass’ length in what’s known as the “one-third rule.”
The university also notes that this frequency should increase to more than once a week in the spring.
When is the best time to mow?
LawnStarter says the best time to mow is mid-morning, between 8-10 a.m.
This is to avoid conditions that are too hot or too moist and to give your lawn enough time to “rest” before nightfall.
The second-best time is late afternoon or early evening, between 4-6 p.m., for the same reasons.
The worst times are early morning, between 6-8 a.m., and midday, between noon and 3 p.m. Early morning brings heavy moisture from dew, which can cause compacted soil and ruts and a clogged mower (it’s also disruptive for your sleeping neighbors).
Midday, meanwhile, can bring unsafe heat in certain areas with extreme temperatures and slow grass recovery.
When should you start mowing your lawn in Illinois? When should you stop?
LawnStarter generally recommends Illinois residents start lawncare and mowing between mid-April and mid-May, when air temperatures are above 55 degrees and soil temperatures are above 32.
Residents should generally stop mowing their lawns around November, when temperatures cool down and the grass is no longer growing.
How short should you keep your grass?
Regulations vary depending on the type of grass and where you live. Wheaton, for example, requires residents to keep their grass and weeds below eight inches.
Generally, the following guidelines are recommended, according to LawnStarter:
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: How often should you mow your lawn in Illinois? When to start, stop
Reporting by Hannah Hudnall, Peoria Journal Star / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
