The feeling of freshly cut grass is one of summer’s greatest joys. But what happens when your lawn mower is cutting too high, leaving your yard looking shaggy and uneven? Maybe you’re just starting out with a new mower, or maybe your current one needs a little adjustment. Whatever the reason, learning how to lower your lawn mower is a valuable skill that can help you achieve that perfectly manicured lawn. This article will guide you through the process, covering everything from understanding your mower’s settings to troubleshooting common problems.
Essentially, lowering your lawn mower involves adjusting the cutting height. Most mowers utilize a simple lever or dial system to change the deck height. This article will break down the steps involved in this adjustment for both rotary and reel mowers. We’ll also explore different factors to consider when deciding on the appropriate height for your lawn and provide tips for troubleshooting any problems you might encounter.
Understanding Your Lawn Mower’s Deck Height
Before you start lowering your lawn mower, it’s essential to understand how the deck height adjustment works on your specific model. Most modern lawnmowers have a clear indication of the cutting height, usually marked on a lever, dial, or a series of notches.
Rotary Mowers: The Most Common Type
Rotary mowers are the most prevalent type of lawn mower, featuring a spinning blade that cuts the grass. They are generally easy to adjust, and the process typically involves:
1. Identifying the Deck Height Control
- Most rotary mowers have a single lever or a dial on the side of the deck.
- The lever or dial often has markings indicating the different height settings.
2. Adjusting the Deck Height
- To raise the deck, simply move the lever or dial upwards.
- To lower the deck, move the lever or dial downwards.
Reel Mowers: For a Precise Cut
Reel mowers use a rotating cylinder with blades to cut the grass. They are known for providing a clean and precise cut, but they can be more challenging to adjust.
1. Adjusting the Reel Height
- Reel mowers typically have a series of screws that control the height of the reel.
- To raise the reel, loosen the screws and turn the reel upwards.
- To lower the reel, loosen the screws and turn the reel downwards.
2. Checking for Evenness
- It’s crucial to ensure that all screws are adjusted evenly to maintain a consistent cut height across the entire reel.
Choosing the Right Cutting Height
The ideal cutting height for your lawn depends on several factors:
- Grass Type: Different types of grass have varying growth habits. For example, fine fescue lawns typically require a lower cut than tall fescue lawns.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the desired look of your lawn is a matter of personal preference.
- Climate: A lower cut might be desirable in hot climates to reduce shade and promote aeration, while a higher cut can be beneficial in cooler climates to conserve moisture.
- Mower Type: Reel mowers typically offer a lower cut than rotary mowers.
Tips for Selecting the Ideal Cutting Height:
- Start with a higher cut: If you’re unsure about the best height, start with a higher setting and gradually lower it until you achieve the desired look.
- Consider the season: You might need to adjust the cutting height based on the time of year. For example, a higher cut during the hot summer months can help the grass stay healthy.
Lowering Your Lawn Mower: Step-by-Step
Now that you understand the basics, let’s break down the process of lowering your lawn mower:
1. Prepare the Mower
- Turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire for safety.
- Remove the key from the ignition.
- Ensure the mower is resting on a level surface.
2. Identify the Deck Height Adjustment Mechanism
- Locate the lever, dial, or screws that control the deck height.
3. Lower the Deck
- Refer to the markings on the lever, dial, or screws to determine the desired cutting height.
- If using a lever or dial, move it downwards to lower the deck.
- If using screws, loosen them and turn the reel downwards.
4. Double-Check the Adjustment
- Ensure that the deck is lowered to the desired height.
- If using a lever or dial, check that it’s secure in place.
- If using screws, tighten them back down to secure the reel.
5. Re-Connect the Spark Plug Wire
- Re-connect the spark plug wire after you have finished adjusting the deck height.
6. Start the Mower and Test the Cut
- Start the mower and carefully test the cut on a small area of your lawn.
- If necessary, make further adjustments to the deck height until you achieve the desired results.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
While lowering your lawn mower is generally a straightforward process, you might encounter some problems along the way. Here are some common issues and solutions:
- The deck doesn’t move: Check that the lever or dial is not stuck or jammed. If necessary, use a lubricant to free up the mechanism.
- The screws are too tight: If you’re having trouble adjusting the screws on a reel mower, try using a wrench or pliers to loosen them.
- The blades are dull: Dull blades can affect the cut height. Replace or sharpen your blades regularly.
- The mower is uneven: Ensure that the deck is level before you start mowing. If necessary, adjust the wheels to compensate for any unevenness.
Beyond Lowering Your Lawn Mower: Additional Tips
- Mow regularly: Mowing your lawn regularly at the correct height will help you maintain a healthy and attractive lawn.
- Avoid scalping: Scalping occurs when you cut the grass too low, which can damage the roots and leave your lawn vulnerable to pests and diseases.
- Mulch your clippings: Mulching mowers chop the grass clippings into fine particles that return to the lawn as fertilizer.
Conclusion
Lowering your lawn mower is a simple yet essential skill that can help you achieve a perfectly manicured lawn. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can adjust the cutting height to suit your needs and preferences. Remember to always prioritize safety by disconnecting the spark plug wire before making any adjustments. With a little practice and attention to detail, you’ll be able to achieve a pristine lawn that you’ll be proud of.
FAQ
Q1: Why would I want to lower my lawn mower?
Lowering your lawn mower deck is a simple adjustment that can have a significant impact on the appearance and health of your lawn. A lower cut height promotes a denser, more uniform lawn by encouraging the growth of new shoots. This can help to prevent weeds from taking root and make your lawn look healthier and more vibrant. Additionally, a lower cut height can help to keep the grass from getting too long, which can make it difficult to mow and can also lead to scalping.
Keep in mind that lowering the deck height too much can stress your lawn and make it more susceptible to damage. It’s crucial to choose a cutting height that’s appropriate for your grass type and the time of year.
Q2: How do I know what the right cutting height is?
The ideal cutting height for your lawn will vary depending on the type of grass you have and your personal preference. In general, it’s best to leave at least one-third of the grass blade after mowing. For example, if your grass is 4 inches tall, you should cut it to 2.5-3 inches.
You can experiment with different cutting heights to see what works best for your lawn. If you’re not sure where to start, consult with your local lawn care professional or a knowledgeable garden center.
Q3: What kind of lawn mower can I adjust the cutting height on?
Most modern rotary lawn mowers have a lever or knob that allows you to adjust the cutting height. This is a standard feature on both gas-powered and electric mowers. Reel mowers, while not as common, also typically have adjustable cutting heights.
However, some older lawn mowers or budget-friendly models may not have this feature. If your mower doesn’t have an adjustable height setting, you may need to consider upgrading to a newer model.
Q4: What happens if I lower the deck too much?
Lowering your lawn mower deck too much can lead to several problems. Your lawn may become stressed and less healthy, as the grass will be cut too short, making it vulnerable to disease and insects. You may also experience scalping, where the blades are cut too low, damaging the grass roots and leaving bare patches in your lawn.
Additionally, a lower cut height can make your lawn more susceptible to damage from foot traffic and other wear and tear. It is important to choose the appropriate cutting height for your lawn type and to avoid lowering the deck too much.
Q5: How often should I lower the cutting height?
It is not recommended to lower the cutting height of your lawn mower too often. It’s generally best to keep the cut height consistent throughout the growing season. However, you may need to adjust the height slightly as the weather changes or your lawn grows faster.
If you do decide to lower the cut height, do it gradually over several mowings. Lowering the deck by 1/4 inch each time will minimize stress on your lawn and give it a chance to adapt.
Q6: Can lowering the cutting height affect how often I need to mow?
Yes, lowering the cutting height can affect how often you need to mow. Since you’re cutting the grass shorter, it will grow back more slowly. This means you may be able to go longer between mowings. However, you still need to monitor your lawn’s growth and mow when necessary. If you let the grass get too long, it will be more challenging to cut and can also damage your lawnmower.
Ultimately, the frequency of mowing will depend on factors such as your grass type, the time of year, and the current growth rate.
Q7: How do I actually lower the cutting height on my lawnmower?
The process for lowering the cutting height on a lawnmower varies depending on the specific model. However, it is typically a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. Most lawn mowers have a lever or knob that controls the height of the cutting deck.
Locate the lever or knob and adjust it according to your desired cut height. The markings on the lever or knob will indicate the different cutting height options. Once you have adjusted the lever or knob, you can then start mowing your lawn. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your model.