Should you cut Bermuda grass short in summer?
When it comes to cutting Bermuda grass in the summer, it is generally recommended to avoid cutting it too short. Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that thrives in hot weather, and cutting it too short can cause stress and damage to the grass. It is important to maintain a proper cutting height and follow the 1/3 rule, which means that you should not cut more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a time.
Cutting Bermuda grass too short in the summer can lead to a number of problems. One of the main issues is that it can weaken the grass and make it more susceptible to disease and weed infestation. When the grass is cut too short, it has less surface area for photosynthesis, which is essential for the grass to produce energy and grow. This can result in a weaker root system and overall poor health of the grass.
Additionally, cutting Bermuda grass too short in the summer can also increase the risk of scalping the lawn. Scalping occurs when the grass is cut so short that the stems and crowns are exposed, leaving the lawn vulnerable to sunburn and damage. This can lead to patches of dead grass and an unsightly lawn.
To avoid these issues, it is important to set your cutting height to a proper level for Bermuda grass in the summer. The ideal cutting height for Bermuda grass during the summer months is generally around 1.5 to 2 inches. This allows the grass to maintain its health and vigor while still keeping it at a manageable length.
If your Bermuda grass has grown much too high and exceeds the recommended cutting height, it is best to gradually reduce the height over multiple mowing sessions. For example, if the grass has grown to 3 inches, you can set your cutting height to 2 inches and wait a couple of days before mowing again. Then, you can lower the cutting height to 1.5 inches and continue to mow at this height until the grass reaches the desired length.
I have personally experienced the consequences of cutting Bermuda grass too short in the summer. In the past, I made the mistake of cutting my Bermuda grass too low in an attempt to keep it short and neat. However, I soon noticed that the grass started to turn brown and thin out in certain areas. It took some time for the grass to recover and regain its health.
Since then, I have learned the importance of maintaining a proper cutting height for Bermuda grass in the summer. By following the 1/3 rule and gradually reducing the height, I have been able to keep my Bermuda grass healthy and vibrant during the hot summer months.
It is not advisable to cut Bermuda grass too short in the summer. Doing so can weaken the grass, increase the risk of disease and weed infestation, and lead to scalping and sunburn. It is best to set the cutting height to around 1.5 to 2 inches and mow gradually to avoid stress and damage to the grass. Following these guidelines will help ensure a healthy and beautiful lawn throughout the summer season.