Mowing Patterns Make Perfect

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Sure, cutting grass is practical: it keeps your clients’ lawns looking picture perfect, turf growing strong and, best of all, keeps you in business.

But mowing can also be an art form. The perfectly shaped cut can create patterns that draw the eye inward, highlighting the house and its surroundings. This can make a big impact on home value.

Turn your clients’ lawns into masterpieces with a few surprisingly simple mowing tricks from The Grounds Guys, a franchise business specializing in commercial and residential landscape management services.

The warmer weather means landscape contractors need to mow lawns more frequently, so it’s the perfect time to experiment with some creative mowing patterns to make their work stand out.

Proper mowing plays an essential role in maintaining a healthy lawn. Before choosing to enhance customers’ lawns with patterns, consider these basic mowing tips to keep grass in the best possible shape:

Mowing can be an art form, as seen in this easy stripe pattern.
  • Mow when grass is dry. Wet grass is more difficult to cut, and dry grass will help keep mowers running smoothly.
  • Keep mower blades sharp to ensure a crisp, even cut.
  • When mowing, try to maintain a consistent speed for the most even lines.

While there are many different patterns to try, consider these four ideas to get started:

PATTERN #1: STRIPES

  • Mow a straight, even first stripe while keeping in mind a “line of sight” to use to guide the rest of the stripes.
  • Mow in slow Y-turns rather than making sharp turns, which can damage grass, then start on the next stripe.
  • Mow the perimeter of the lawn to create a smooth border.

PATTERN #2: DIAMONDS

  • Start by mowing the first diagonal stripe down the center of the lawn, then mow another stripe right next to it.
  • Drive around the edge of the lawn and mow a second stripe in the same direction, which creates one light stripe with two dark stripes next to it.
  • Continue this pattern until both sides of the lawn are striped.
  • Make the crossing stripes by making a diagonal first stripe in the opposite direction and making a return pass right next to it, just like the first time.
  • Continue the same pattern, one stripe then two stripes back, until the lawn is completely cut.

PATTERN #3: CIRCLES

  • Starting in the innermost point, mow in a circle shape.
  • Alternate directions mowing for each circle thereafter.
  • This pattern is a good option for mowing around trees, flagpoles, etc.

PATTERN #4: WAVES

  • Mow a first stripe. For a smooth wave pattern, keep turns subtle and consistent throughout the design.
  • Use the first wave as a guide to align the rest of the waves.

Mowing patterns are a unique way to transform any property from ordinary to extraordinary, boosting curb appeal and property value along the way.

COVER PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO