Sharp Mower Blades Keep Lawns Healthy
One aspect of lawn care that is sometimes ignored by homeowners is keeping the lawnmower well-tuned and the blades sharp. Rotary mowers are the most common types of mowers used by homeowners. While most responsible homeowners take their mowers for a tune up at the beginning of the season, and some take the mower for a tune up at the end of the season, many do not do anything in-between. To keep your lawn healthy, conserve resources and maintain the beautiful green carpet look, you need to keep your mower blades sharp.
Sharp Mower Blades Conserve Gasoline
At a time when mowing your lawn can cost as much as a trip to the grocery store, in terms of gas use, any gas-saving measures are good for the homeowner. Sharp mower blades are more efficient, and slice through grass blades without as much work. A study conducted by the University of Nebraska found that keeping mower blades sharp helped homeowners use 22% less fuel per mowing session. That figure, by itself is enough to encourage mower blade maintenance.
Sharp Mower Blades Maintain a Clean Green Look
Dull mower blades rip and tear grass leaves rather than cutting them. That ripping action is what causes the faint white sheen across the lawn. A ragged cut heals less neatly. The shredded ends of the grass plant die and turn white, which gives the lawn an unhealthy pallor. Keeping mower blades sharp helps the mower slice the blades cleanly, allowing them to heal quickly at the ends. There have been some varieties of turf developed that do not need mowing; however, the clean, green look that most lawn-owners covet is achieved by continual grass growth. Lawns that do not require mowing will begin to appear ratty over time-especially if they see a lot of foot traffic.
Frequency of Mower Blade Sharpening
Mower blades need to be sharpened after about fifteen mowing sessions for an average lot size. That works out to about once or twice a summer if you mow the lawn once a week. If you mow your lawn when it is wet, the blade will dull much more quickly. You can sharpen the blade yourself, or take it to your local repair shop for sharpening. Rotary mower blades should be sharpened to have a 40 degree angle, evenly sharpened along the entire blade. If you are inexperienced, or do not have the proper equipment, it is best to visit the local repair shop so that you do not end up cutting your lawn unevenly. Spending the time to correctly sharpen the mower blade is worth the investment. You will save fuel, and consequently money, over the summer. Your lawn will also keep a healthy, green look throughout the growing season. |
