Table of contents
- time of sowing
- weather
- lawn type
- One-Thirds Rule
- mowing
- care and protection
From when you are allowed to walk on and mow a freshly sown lawn depends on various factors. These include, for example, the time of sowing and the weather as well as the length of the stalk. We will show you what you have to be aware of.
time of sowing
The best time for sowing is between April and May. Depending on the temperature, germination can be expected after seven to 28 days. If sowing was not possible in spring, you can do so between August and September. However, germination may then take longer.
Accordingly, mowing can only take place later. Again, this can prove difficult in colder regions when frost is already occurring. Because then the lawn can be damaged.
weather
Of course, the current weather contributes significantly to the germination time and growth of the plants. Temperatures of around 20 °C and light precipitation are ideal. In prolonged or heavy rain, the seeds can be washed away, leaving bare patches in the lawn.
This makes it necessary to overseed again. However, this should only be done after mowing. Otherwise, the shortening will be delayed and the result will be uneven.
lawn type
There are mainly three different types of lawn plants. The division is made into:
- resilience
- Location
- Purpose of use
There are varieties especially for the shade and others that are particularly suitable for frequent use. The most common are:
- shadow lawn
- Sports and play turf
- ornamental lawn
Depending on the species, you should also pay attention to the stalk height. This is a crucial indication of the cutting time. Shady lawns require more chlorophyll due to the lower light and therefore a stalk height of between nine and ten centimeters.
For ornamental breeds, 8.0 to 8.5 centimeters are sufficient for the first cut. Sports and play breeds for heavier loads can even be blended when the stalks are seven to eight centimeters high.
One-Thirds Rule
The one-third rule states that only the top third of the stalks may be cut off. With grass that is nine centimeters long, this means cutting it down to six centimetres. If the lawn has grown taller, measure the length with a ruler and divide by three. The calculated length may be cut off.
A notice:
This rule achieves a compaction of the lawn without taking too much strength from it. Therefore, if the grass is very long, it is better to cut it in stages.
mowing
Not only the timing of mowing is crucial. Other factors also play a role. These include, among others:
- soil condition
- the right cutting tool
- Weather
Prepare the surface accordingly by leveling and smoothing it. Cut on dry days when the sun is not shining and the lawn is not damp. Also make sure that the cutting blades of the lawnmower are freshly sharpened. Otherwise, the cutting tools can pull the lawn plants out of the ground.
This is the case when the stalks are not yet properly rooted. Therefore, always wait for the correct length before stepping on and cutting the lawn. Also check the wire, knife or string beforehand and keep them clean and functional.
Another disadvantage is that a blunt cutting tool will not straighten the cut surfaces. Instead, they fray and are therefore a target for diseases and parasites.
Tip:
If possible, the lawn should not be walked on for a day before mowing. Through use, stalks bend and the mowing result is not even.
care and protection
After the first mowing, you should continue to be careful with the lawn. If possible, you should not enter it immediately after cutting. It is also important to water it sufficiently and, if the soil has not been prepared beforehand, to fertilize it.
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