Manual

MOWING AND MULCHING RECOMMENDATIONS
GRASS CUlTlNG BASICS
Cutting Height
A cutting height setting of 1 1/2 or 2 inches is appropriate for most lawns during
cool weather. A higher cut may be needed to protect the lawn during hot
summer months. Consult a local nursery or lawn and garden center for advice
about specific types of grasses and growing conditions in your area.
Most grasses should be cut when they have grown 1/2 to
1 inch above the
recommended height.
If your grass gets too tall, cut it back a little at a time,
allowing a few days for the grass
to recover between mowings. Avoid cutting
more than one third of total grass height
in any one mowing.
For best mulching results, mow the lawn frequently enough that
you will need to
cut
off less than one inch. Frequent mowing, with light cuts, makes it easier for
your mulching mower to turn grass clippings into fine particles that will
fall
through 'the turf and decompose quickly.
Cutting Width
For an even lawn finish, overlap each mowing swath by a few inches. If the
grass is very tall or thick, use more overlap and a narrower mowing swath.
If
clogging or clumping occurs, you may also need to mow more slowly or raise the
cutting height setting.
Blade Speed
For best performance, the blades must spin very fast. Always use the fast
throttle setting, and keep the engine running at or near maximum rpm.
If you
hear the engine speed decrease, mow more slowly, cut a narrower swath, or
raise the cutting height setting.
Blade Sharpness
Keep the blades sharp. Sharp blades cut cleanly. Dull blades tear the grass,
leaving shredded ends that turn brown.
Moisture
Always wait for wet grass to dry. Wet grass clippings will clog the mower deck
and collect in clumps on the lawn.
If the soil is very dry, mowing can stir up a lot of dust. Besides being unpleasant
to work in, too much dust will clog the carburetor air filter. If dust is a problem,
water your lawn the day before mowing. Mow when the grass dries, and the soil
is still moist.
6