Spring Low Mow (Scalping)
Properly preparing your lawn as temperatures rise and spring begins can give it a major head start. One of the most effective methods is low mowing (scalping)—removing excess thatch and dormant grass to allow new growth to flourish. While the term scalping is commonly used, it applies differently to various grass types. Here’s why and how you should consider low mowing in early spring.
Why Low Mowing in Spring is Beneficial
🌱 Accelerates Green-Up – Removing dead grass and thatch exposes the green, healthy grass beneath, allowing your lawn to green up 2-4 weeks earlier than untreated lawns.
🌞 Improves Sun & Airflow – Low mowing opens the canopy, allowing sunlight and fresh air to reach the soil and promote stronger growth.
🌾 Reduces Disease & Thatch Build-Up – Overwintered material can harbor fungal diseases like large patch, fairy ring, and spring dead spot. Removing it minimizes the risk of disease and reduces the need for chemical treatments.
🚫 Prevents Grass from Matting Down – If left too tall during dormancy, zoysia, and Bermuda grass can mat down under moisture and foot traffic. This can lead to rotting and a slow, unhealthy start to the growing season.
When & How to Low Mow Your Lawn
⏳ Best Timing – Early March or when temperatures consistently hit 70°F and early signs of growth appear. Avoid scalping too early to prevent weed germination and soil temperature fluctuations.
🔪 Mow Low, But Adjust for Grass Type:
Bermuda Grass – Can be cut very low without harm.
Zoysia Grass – Requires a more cautious approach; mow lower than usual, but avoid cutting too aggressively to prevent stress.
🛠 Keys Effective Low Mowing:
1️⃣ Set Your Mower Lower – Reduce your mower height lower than your usual cutting height. For Zoysia, this may only be ½ to ¾ inches lower than your standard mow. For Bermuda, you can safely set the mower to the lowest setting.
2️⃣ Bag & Remove Clippings – Bagging and collecting dead material prevents thatch buildup and potential disease outbreaks.
⚠️ Caution: Lowering Mow Height Properly to Avoid Stress
While lowering your mowing height can improve your lawn’s health and appearance, a sudden change can put extreme stress on your grass. To ensure a smooth transition without damaging your turf, follow these steps:
How to Safely Lower Your Mowing Height
✅ 1. Choose the Right Conditions
Avoid lowering the mow height during extreme heat. If mid-day temperatures exceed 95°F, hold off until cooler weather.
DO NOT lower the height if your lawn is showing signs of drought stress (e.g., wilting, browning, or slow recovery after mowing).
✅ 2. Lower the Height Gradually
Reduce the mowing height by no more than 0.5 inches per mow.
Space out the transition over multiple mowing sessions rather than all at once.
✅ 3. Increase Mowing Frequency
Mow every 3 days, gradually reducing the height in 0.5-inch increments until the desired level is reached.
Frequent mowing helps prevent excessive stress and encourages a healthier, denser lawn.
✅ 4. Bag the Clippings During Transition
Removing excess clippings prevents thatch buildup and ensures the cut grass doesn’t smother the healthy turf underneath.
Once the final mow height is reached and your lawn has adjusted, you can return to mulching the clippings if desired.
By following these steps, you’ll help your lawn adjust safely to a lower mowing height while minimizing stress and maintaining its overall health.
Final Thoughts
Low mowing in early spring ensures a healthier, faster-greening lawn while reducing the need for chemicals and fungicides. By following these guidelines, your zoysia or Bermuda grass will transition into the growing season stronger, greener, and disease-free. 🌿✨