5 Common Lawn Mowing Mistakes

Mowing your lawn might seem simple! Start the mower, make a few passes, and you’re done. But small mistakes in your mowing routine can make a big difference in how your lawn looks and grows. At Blooming Blades Lawn Care in Bloomington, MN, we see it all the time: homeowners doing everything right except for a few key details.

Here are five of the most common mowing mistakes and how to fix them to get that clean, professional cut every time.

1. Cutting Your Grass Too Short

Many homeowners think shorter grass means less mowing. In reality, cutting your lawn too short can stress your grass, expose soil to sunlight, and make it easier for weeds to grow.

The Fix:
Keep cool-season grasses (like Kentucky bluegrass and fescue, common in Minnesota) at about three inches tall. Taller grass develops deeper roots and stays greener longer.

We previously wrote about Mowing Height 101. Check it out to learn more about it!

2. Mowing With Dull Blades

Dull mower blades tear your grass instead of cutting it cleanly. Torn grass tips turn brown, making your lawn look uneven and more vulnerable to disease.

The Fix:
Sharpen your mower blades at least once per season — or more often if you mow frequently. Clean cuts keep your grass healthy and vibrant.

3. Mowing in the Same Direction Every Time

Going over your lawn in the same pattern week after week can lead to soil compaction and ruts, causing uneven growth.

The Fix:
Change your mowing direction each time. Alternate between horizontal, vertical, and diagonal passes to help your grass grow upright and prevent patterns from forming.

4. Mowing When It’s Too Hot or Wet

Mowing in extreme conditions, especially right after rain or during midday heat can harm your lawn. Wet grass clumps up and can clog your mower, while mowing during heat can stress the blades.

The Fix:
Aim to mow in the morning or early evening when grass is dry and temperatures are cooler. This helps reduce stress and gives your lawn a cleaner cut.

5. Bagging Every Single Time

While bagging can keep your lawn tidy, removing clippings every time takes away valuable nutrients that your grass needs.

The Fix:
Leave your clippings when possible. As long as you mow regularly and the grass isn’t too long, clippings will break down naturally and return nitrogen to the soil, acting as a free fertilizer.

Let Blooming Blades Lawn Care Help You Mow Smarter

A beautiful lawn isn’t just about cutting! It’s about cutting the right way. At Blooming Blades Lawn Care, we take the time to mow at the correct height, rotate mowing patterns, and keep blades sharp so your grass stays lush, healthy, and picture-perfect all season long.

Serving Bloomington, MN and nearby areas.
Contact us to schedule your next mow or seasonal maintenance service!