Ah, lawn mowing—the quintessential Kiwi weekend activity. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly cut grass and the satisfaction of stepping back to admire a perfectly striped lawn. But if your mowing skills have been leaning more toward “chaotic paddock” than “pristine cricket pitch,” don’t worry—I’ve got your back.
Here’s everything you need to know to make your lawn the talk of the neighborhood (in a good way). Grab a cuppa, and let’s dive in.
1. Timing is Everything
Lawn mowing is a bit like baking a pavlova—it’s all about timing. The best time to mow is mid-morning or late afternoon when the grass is dry but not scorched by the sun. Early morning mowing might seem peaceful, but wet grass clumps and sticks to your mower like a toddler to a bag of lollies.
Pro Tip from Dan: Avoid mowing during the heat of the day—it stresses the grass and you. No one wants a lawn that’s frazzled, least of all you.
2. The Right Height Matters
Think of your grass as a hairstyle—it needs the right trim to look its best. Mowing too short (“scalping” in the biz) can weaken the grass, making it more vulnerable to weeds and bare patches. Aim to cut no more than one-third of the grass height in a single mow.
Pro Tip from Dan: If you’ve let things grow a bit wild (no judgment here), ease your lawn back into shape over a couple of mows. Grass thrives on gradual change, not drastic makeovers.
3. Sharpen Up, Mate
A sharp mower blade is your lawn’s best friend. Dull blades tear the grass, leaving it jagged and prone to disease. Not to mention, they make mowing harder than it needs to be. Give those blades a quick check before each mow— your grass (and your arms) will thank you.
Dan’s Anecdote: Once, I used an old mower with blades so dull I might as well have been cutting the lawn with a butter knife. Never again. Lesson learned, and now I carry a sharpener like a true lawn warrior.
4. Mow Like a Pro
Forget random circles or zigzags—mowing in straight, overlapping lines is the way to go. Alternate your mowing pattern each time (horizontal one week, vertical the next) to prevent grass from leaning one way and to reduce soil compaction.
Pro Tip from Dan: For those envy-inducing stripes, mow in opposite directions on each pass. It’s not just for show—it improves airflow and sunlight exposure, keeping your lawn healthy and happy.
5. Clean Up Like a Champ
After mowing, don’t forget to clean your mower. Grass clippings can build up underneath, leading to rust and reducing performance over time. And while you’re at it, make sure your mower’s fuel tank is topped up and ready for the next job.
Pro Tip from Dan: Mulching mowers are a game-changer. They chop up clippings finely and redistribute them as natural fertilizer, saving you cleanup time and giving your lawn a nutrient boost.
6. Don’t Go It Alone
Lawn mowing might be satisfying, but let’s face it—life gets busy. If your schedule’s packed tighter than a rugby match, don’t hesitate to call in the pros (like us!). We’ll tackle your lawn with precision, leaving you more time to enjoy your outdoor space.
Dan’s Promise: “If you can’t, we Candoo.” Whether it’s a quick mow or a full backyard transformation, we’ve got your lawn care sorted.
Let’s Give Your Lawn Some Love
There you have it—mowing tips straight from the heart (and blades) of Candoo. Ready to give your lawn the care it deserves? Whether you’re DIY-ing it or need a hand from your local lawn legends, we’re here to help.
So, next time you’re staring at an overgrown grass jungle, just remember: mow smarter, not harder. And if all else fails, you know who to call. Cheers, mates!
