Will Cutting Grass Short Kill Weeds?

While maintaining a well-manicured lawn is a common pursuit, many homeowners wonder if cutting grass too short can help eliminate weeds. Essentially, cutting grass short can help manage weeds but it won’t necessarily kill them. There are several key factors to consider when trying to suppress weed growth through mowing practices.

Competition and Grass Health

Keeping your grass at a healthy height helps it outcompete weeds for sunlight, water, and nutrients. When grass is short, it can become weaker and more vulnerable, allowing weeds to thrive more easily. A balance should be maintained to promote strong, healthy grass that can compete effectively with weeds.

Understanding Different Weed Types

It’s crucial to recognize that not all weeds respond to mowing height the same way. Some perennial weeds, like dandelions, can survive mowing and may even become more vigorous. These types of weeds are resilient and can quickly regain their strength and spread.

Optimal Mowing Strategy

A more effective approach is to set your mower to the recommended height for your specific grass type, typically between 2.5 to 4 inches. This height promotes healthy grass growth and can help suppress weed growth. Regularly mowing your lawn at the proper height can contribute significantly to weed management, but combining this with other lawn care practices is key to preventing weed infestations permanently.

Integrated Lawn Care Practices

For effective weed management, it’s essential to combine proper mowing with other practices such as regular fertilization, watering, using mulch, or pre-emergent herbicides. These methods can create a protective layer that deters weed growth and fosters a healthy lawn environment.

Arguments For and Against Short Mowing

Some yards benefit from a more clipped appearance, while others prefer a thicker, more robust lawn. Maintaining a taller grass height can reduce the visibility of weeds and minimize the need for frequent mowing. However, a higher cut may require more frequent maintenance and can present challenges in areas with significant weed pressure.

My personal approach is to use the low-cut method, which, while effective in managing weeds, can sometimes hide them from being too obvious on the lawn. A higher cut, on the other hand, demands more frequent maintenance, and while many admire the lush, thick lawns of their neighbors, I am mindful of the time and resources such maintenance demands.

Conclusion

While mowing your grass too short can help manage some weeds temporarily, it is not a foolproof method for killing them. Proper lawn care practices, including mowing at the appropriate height, are essential for long-term weed control. By adopting a comprehensive, integrated approach to lawn care, you can effectively manage and prevent weed proliferation in your yard.

References:
Home Guides, SF Gate - Control or Kill Weeds by Mowing
The Spruce - Make Your Best Home - The Biggest Lawn-Care Mistake Is Cutting Grass Too Short