Cutting grass too short is a common mistake in Florida lawn care. Known as “scalping,” mowing too low can cause long-term damage to the lawn’s health. This is a serious concern in Florida’s hot, humid climate, where lawns require careful upkeep. Choosing the right mowing height of Florida grass is critical to keeping grass strong, green, and growing.
What Is Lawn Scalping?
Lawn scalping occurs when grass is mowed so low that it exposes the stems or soil underneath. It can happen by accident—cutting too short in one area due to uneven terrain or dull blades—or by setting the mower too low across the yard. In Florida, scalping is especially harmful because many grass types used in this region need a specific height to stay healthy.
Why Scalping Damages Florida Lawns
Florida grasses like St. Augustine, Bahia, and Zoysia are sensitive to low mowing heights. When scalped, they struggle to photosynthesize, store energy, and grow back properly.
1. Weak Roots
Short grass blades can’t absorb enough sunlight. This limits energy production and causes the roots to shrink. Shallow roots are less able to survive heat, drought, or foot traffic.
2. Soil Exposure
When grass is cut too short, it no longer shades the soil. That causes:
- Faster moisture evaporation
- Soil temperature spikes
- Greater weed growth
Without thick grass to shield the ground, weeds find easy places to grow and spread.
3. Disease Spread
Scalped grass becomes stressed and weak, creating an open invitation for fungal infections and lawn pests. Damaged blades heal slowly, especially during Florida’s rainy season when moisture encourages disease.
Recommended Mowing Height of Florida Grass
Maintaining the correct mowing height of Florida grass prevents damage and supports thick, healthy turf. Mowing at the proper height allows sunlight to reach the leaves while protecting the roots.
General Guidelines:
- Augustine grass: Keep between 2.5 to 4 inches
- Bahia grass: Maintain at 3 to 4 inches
- Zoysia grass: Best between 1 to 2.5 inches
To maintain proper height:
- Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade
- Mow with sharp blades to reduce tearing
- Adjust mower height based on growth rate and season
Florida Weather and Mowing Practices
Florida lawns grow fast due to frequent rain and warm weather. But mowing more often doesn’t mean cutting shorter. Instead, mow consistently and at the right height. During peak growth seasons, grass may need mowing weekly. In dry periods, it may slow down and require less frequent mowing.
Proper mowing height helps:
- Prevent weeds
- Retain moisture
- Improve grass thickness
- Keep lawn color uniform
Bestway Lawn Care: Expert Service in Florida
Cutting too low harms grass and invites more problems. Bestway Lawn Care offers reliable service across St. Petersburg, Largo, Tampa Bay, and Seminole, FL, providing lawn care and lawn maintenance services.
For professional mowing, sod installation, or grounds maintenance, contact Bestway Lawn Care today.
