Crystal Greens Landscape – Portland, Oregon
Crystal Greens Landscape offers a comprehensive year-round maintenance service that is customized to each property’s goals and budgets. Mowing practices are an important part of what we do. These are best practices for mowing in the PNW on commercial properties.
Safety
1. Inspect the mower before each use to ensure that all safety features are in place and functioning properly.
2. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye and ear protection, boots, and gloves.
3. Clear the mowing area of debris, rocks, and other hazards before beginning.
4. Avoid operating the mower on overly wet grass or saturated soil (easier said than done in the crazy PNW weather.)
5. Turn off the mower and wait for the blades to stop completely before removing debris or making adjustments.
Quality
1. Adjust the mower blades to the appropriate height for the type of grass being mowed.
2. Mow in a different direction each time to avoid creating ruts or uneven wear on the grass.
3. Use sharp blades to ensure a clean cut and prevent tearing of the grass.
4. Edge around the borders of the lawn to give it a clean, finished look.
5. Remove excessive grass clippings from the lawn to prevent thatch buildup and allow the grass to breathe. Avoid wet clumping when conditions are wet.
Efficiency
1. Plan the most efficient route for mowing to minimize overlap and reduce fuel consumption. Consider electrification where possible to reduce fuel waste.
2. Use a mower with a wide cutting deck to cover more ground in less time when possible.
3. Use a mulching mower to recycle grass clippings and add nutrients back into the soil when conditions allow.
4. Keep the mower well-maintained to prevent breakdowns and reduce downtime.
It’s important to emphasize that mowing services alone will not accomplish the highest results without implementing an agronomics program that is customized for their property based on climate, soil conditions, and use purpose. This includes fertilization, irrigation, aeration, pest management, and more.
