28July 2025
Summer heat can take a toll on your lawn—and your mowing habits may be making it worse. While a freshly trimmed yard looks great, over-mowing during hot weather can actually damage your grass and increase the risk of drought stress, discoloration, and weed invasion.
At QuietCare Landscaping, we believe healthy lawns start with informed care. That’s why we’re sharing what every homeowner should know about proper mowing during the summer months.
The Problem With Over-Mowing
Cutting your lawn too frequently—or too short—strips the grass of its ability to photosynthesize effectively. This weakens the root system, making your lawn more vulnerable to pests, heat, and dry conditions. According to the University of California’s Integrated Pest Management program, removing more than one-third of the grass blade at a time causes stress and can lead to thinning or browning.
Mow Smarter, Not Shorter
Here are expert tips to keep your lawn healthy and vibrant through the summer:
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Follow the 1/3 Rule: Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing session.
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Raise the Blade: During hot months, set your mower blades higher to help grass develop deeper roots and better shade the soil.
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Avoid Peak Heat: Mow in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to reduce stress on your lawn—and yourself.
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Keep Your Mower Sharp: Dull blades tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, increasing the risk of disease and stress.
Best Grass Types for Northern New Jersey Lawns
If you live in Northern New Jersey, the following cool-season grasses perform best in our climate and should guide your mowing height and frequency:
✅ Kentucky Bluegrass
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Lush, dark green appearance
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Ideal mowing height: 2.5–3.5 inches
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Widely used for its ability to recover from damage and form dense turf
✅ Tall Fescue
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Drought- and heat-tolerant with a coarser texture
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Ideal mowing height: 3–4 inches
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Great for high-traffic areas and lower maintenance
✅ Fine Fescues (e.g., Creeping Red, Chewings, Hard Fescue)
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Shade-tolerant and low-maintenance
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Ideal mowing height: 2–3 inches
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Excellent for more naturalized or lightly used areas
✅ Perennial Ryegrass
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Quick germination and great for overseeding
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Ideal mowing height: 2–2.5 inches
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Often used in mixes with Kentucky Bluegrass for faster coverage
You can reference this grass height guide by the University of Arkansas Extension to ensure you’re mowing your specific lawn type correctly.
Don’t Let Summer Stress Win
Your mowing habits can make or break your lawn during the heat of summer. Avoid over-mowing and follow best practices to keep your grass green and thriving.
Need help maintaining the perfect cut without stressing your lawn? Trust QuietCare Landscaping for thoughtful, professional lawn care services tailored to your yard’s needs.
Let QuietCare Landscaping Handle It for You
Professional lawn care means less stress for you—and your yard. At QuietCare Landscaping, we specialize in thoughtful, eco-friendly lawn maintenance throughout Bergen County. Let our experienced team keep your yard looking its best, even during the hottest months.
Phone: 201-663-5387
Website: https://quietcarelandscaping.com
Email: quietcarelandscaping@gmail.com
Request a free estimate today and see what the QuietCare difference looks like in your backyard!