Secret to a Healthier Lawn!

May 18, 2021

Are You Cutting Your Grass or Shredding It?

healthy-lawn-grass-cutting-tips
Have you ever had your mower blade checked to ensure it is sharp enough to cut your grass correctly? Did you know that a dull mower blade can cause severe damage to grass which can lead to greater turf maintenance costs and requirements?

Hopefully you've answered "Yes!" to the above questions, please, read on!

Regardless of how sharp you keep you mower blade, every time you mow the grass the blade is put through a period of "shock" from the cutting. When a blade of grass is severed, the remaining grass plant must go through a period of healing to seal the cut. A sharp blade cuts cleanly through the grass and leaves a nice, straight slice, which minimizes the shock to the plant and the time required for healing. On the other hand, a dull blade will basically shred the grass. Even though the grass is "cut," it's shredded, ripped, and severely torn, which causes the grass plant to endure an extended period of healing and water loss. Not to mention, a greater risk of becoming infected or infested with microbes or insects. A grass plant that endures a nice, clean slice is far less likely to suffer prolonged damage or disease.

If you're handy with tools and know your way around a mower, sharpening your own blade isn't that difficult. Many retail locations sell a sharpening grinding stone designed specifically for mower blades. You can also purchase a tool that will hold the blade in place when you are removing the bolt that secures the blade to the engine shaft. Use a permanent marker or awl to mark the bottom of the blade before you remove it. And, safety first, which means always removing the spark plug wire from the spark plug before doing anything under or around the mower!

Once you have sharpened the blade, put a touch of oil on the bolt threads and refasten the blade securely to the shaft. After the first mow with the newly sharpened blade, recheck the bolt to ensure it is securely tight. Also, if you've sharpened the blade several times, make sure you check the balance of the blade. An unbalanced blade can cause damage to the mower and possible injury to the user. If a blade can no longer be sharpened and retain balance purchase a new blade - better safe than sorry!

Your owner's manual should have instruction on proper maintenance, and even if you can't find your manual, a quick check of the internet with make and model of your mower in hand will get you to a manufacturer's website. If you don't feel comfortable with sharpening your own blade that's quite okay - the dealer where you purchased your mower may provide this type of service, and there are many professional companies in our area that will perform this work for you. Regardless of which works best for you, a sharp blade always works best for your lawn! By maintaining a sharp blade your blades of grass will benefit tremendously! This will also reduce the amount of maintenance needed for a beautiful lawn.

If you need new mower blades or would prefer to have someone experienced to sharpen yours, visit the Service & Rental Center at Martens Reedsburg True Value store today!






Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7905212
March 9, 2026
When you see a Gravely mowing the grass, you're looking at over 100 years of ingenuity in action. You're seeing a rugged, durable machine professional lawn service companies have relied on for generations.
February 23, 2026
In this video, discover how STIHL chainsaws simplify the daily work of tree care professionals – from the tree canopy to the ground.
February 18, 2026
A well-thought-out garden plan can save you time, money, and prevent the disappointment of a chaotic and struggling garden. Here are some tips to help you create your backyard oasis...
February 9, 2026
Martens Reedsburg True Value February Bargains of the Month - Prices valid until 2/28/2026 - Shop early for best selection, while supplies last!!
February 4, 2026
DIY Home Improvement Projects done right with supplies from Reedsburg True Value Superstore.
January 27, 2026
Be smart and stay warm in a power outage by making alternative heat sources as accessible as possible in case of an emergency.
January 19, 2026
Most of the items needed to supply your emergency car kit can be found at Martens Reedsburg True Value at everyday Great Value pricing. Stop by today and get prepared for your next road trip!
January 14, 2026
This go anywhere, clear anything snow blower by Ariens was designed and built unlike anything anyone has seen before. Watch this short video and you'll quickly see how the Mammoth is wreaking vengeance on snow.
January 5, 2026
Prices good for Reedsburg True Value Bargains of the Month through January 31, 2026 or while supplies last. Shop early for best selection!!
December 29, 2025
Tank water heaters waste a lot of energy every month due to their design. But there is something that homeowners can do to minimize this wasted energy. By installing a timer you can save energy and money.