Have you just laid down fresh sod or meticulously seeded your lawn? Are you desperate to keep pesky birds and curious critters away from your precious new grass? Lawn netting seems like a perfect solution, but can you mow over it without causing damage to your mower or your lawn? This guide explores the ins and outs of mowing over lawn netting, providing you with the information you need to make the right decision for your lawn.
Short Answer: In most cases, it is not advisable to mow over lawn netting. While some lightweight netting may be thin enough to allow for mowing, heavier, more durable netting poses a significant risk to your mower and can potentially damage your lawn.
Understanding the Risks of Mowing Over Lawn Netting
Mowing over lawn netting presents several potential problems, each with its own set of consequences:
1. Damage to Your Mower
- Blade Dullness and Damage: The netting can easily snag on the mower blades, causing dullness, uneven cuts, and even potential damage to the blades themselves.
- Clogging and Blockage: Heavier netting can create a blockage in the mower’s deck, obstructing the flow of grass clippings and potentially overheating the motor.
- Reduced Efficiency: The netting can hinder the mower’s smooth operation, leading to a less efficient and effective cut.
2. Potential Damage to Your Lawn
- Uneven Cutting: The netting can interfere with the mower’s ability to cut evenly, leading to an uneven appearance and potentially damaging the grass blades.
- Netting Entanglement: The netting may become entangled with the grass, making it difficult to remove and leaving unsightly debris on your lawn.
Types of Lawn Netting and Their Suitability for Mowing
Not all lawn netting is created equal. The type and thickness of the netting can significantly impact its mowability:
1. Lightweight Plastic Netting
This type of netting is often used for short-term protection. It is generally thinner and more flexible, making it slightly more suitable for mowing. However, it is still advisable to use caution and avoid mowing over it if possible.
2. Heavy-Duty Netting
This netting is more durable and designed for long-term protection. It is typically thicker and more resistant to tearing, making it significantly less suitable for mowing. Mowing over heavy-duty netting poses a high risk of damaging your mower and potentially harming your lawn.
Alternatives to Mowing Over Lawn Netting
If you are concerned about the risks of mowing over lawn netting, consider these alternative solutions:
1. Manually Remove the Netting Before Mowing
This is the safest and most efficient method. Carefully remove the netting from the area you need to mow, ensuring no loose pieces remain.
2. Use a String Trimmer
For smaller areas or areas with intricate landscaping, a string trimmer can be a valuable tool. The string trimmer’s flexible string is less likely to damage the netting, and you can carefully maneuver it around the netting.
3. Wait for the Grass to Grow Longer
If your netting is meant for short-term protection, wait until your lawn has grown enough to cover the netting. This will minimize the risk of damaging your mower and may even prevent the netting from being visible.
Tips for Using Lawn Netting Safely
If you must mow over lawn netting, follow these tips to minimize risks:
- Choose the Right Mower: Opt for a rotary mower with a robust deck and sharp blades. Avoid using reel mowers, as they are more prone to entanglement.
- Lower the Mower Deck: Lower the mower deck to its lowest setting to reduce the amount of netting that can be pulled into the deck.
- Inspect the Netting: Check the netting for any tears or loose ends before mowing.
- Mow Slowly: Move the mower slowly and carefully, avoiding sudden changes in direction.
- Stop and Check: Stop mowing periodically to check for any signs of entanglement or damage.
Conclusion
While some types of lightweight lawn netting may be mowable with caution, it is generally best to avoid mowing over any type of netting. The risks to your mower and lawn outweigh the potential benefits. Consider the alternative solutions mentioned above, or plan for a period of lawn protection where you can safely remove the netting before mowing. By taking the necessary precautions and making informed decisions, you can protect your lawn and your mower from the potential hazards of mowing over lawn netting.
FAQs
1. Can I mow over lawn netting?
Short answer: You shouldn’t mow directly over lawn netting.
Longer answer: Mowing over lawn netting can damage your mower’s blades and potentially tear the netting itself. This can lead to uneven mowing and a messy lawn. Additionally, the netting might get tangled in the mower’s blades, causing further damage and potential safety hazards.
2. What happens if I accidentally mow over lawn netting?
Short answer: It’s not ideal, but it’s not the end of the world.
Longer answer: If you accidentally mow over a small piece of netting, it’s unlikely to cause significant damage. However, it’s important to check your mower blades for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any damage, it’s best to replace the blades before using the mower again.
3. What are the benefits of using lawn netting?
Short answer: Lawn netting provides a barrier against pests and protects your lawn from damage.
Longer answer: Lawn netting acts as a barrier against pests like rabbits, squirrels, and birds that may be nibbling on your grass. It also helps prevent damage from heavy foot traffic or erosion. Additionally, it can aid in seed germination and protect young seedlings from being uprooted.
4. Is lawn netting easy to install?
Short answer: Yes, lawn netting is generally easy to install.
Longer answer: Most lawn netting comes with instructions and is straightforward to put in place. You can use stakes or pegs to secure the netting to the ground, ensuring it covers the desired area. It’s important to avoid stretching the netting too tightly, as this could prevent it from effectively protecting your lawn.
5. How long does lawn netting last?
Short answer: Lawn netting can last for several seasons, depending on the quality and the weather conditions.
Longer answer: High-quality lawn netting, made from durable materials like UV-resistant polyethylene, can last for several years. However, weather conditions like strong winds, heavy rain, and sun exposure can impact its lifespan. You may need to replace it sooner if it shows signs of wear and tear.
6. Can I use lawn netting on all types of lawns?
Short answer: Lawn netting can be used on most types of lawns.
Longer answer: Lawn netting is suitable for a variety of lawn types, including grass, clover, and other ground covers. It can be used on slopes, uneven terrain, and even around trees and shrubs.
7. Where can I buy lawn netting?
Short answer: You can buy lawn netting at most garden centers, hardware stores, and online retailers.
Longer answer: Many garden centers and hardware stores carry lawn netting, and you can also find a wide selection online through retailers specializing in garden supplies. When choosing lawn netting, ensure it’s made from durable materials and the appropriate size for your needs.