Welcome to Mower Lingo, your go-to glossary for navigating the language of mowing!
Whether you’re a newcomer to lawn care or a seasoned expert, mastering the specific terminology of the mowing world is crucial. This knowledge not only aids in selecting the right equipment but also plays a significant role in achieving your ideal lawn.
Consider this article your essential guide to the most frequently used terms in the mowing community. It’s designed to be beneficial for everyone, regardless of experience. With the constant evolution of technology and new methods in lawn care, refreshing your knowledge of these terms is always a smart move.
1. Blade Types
Mulching Blade:
A mulching blade is designed to cut grass clippings into fine pieces that decompose quickly, returning nutrients back to the lawn. This type of blade is ideal for those who want to reduce their need for fertilizer and create a healthier lawn.
High-Lift Blade:
Low-Lift Blade:
A low-lift blade is best for sandy or dusty conditions. It produces less airflow than other types of blades, which helps to minimize dust and debris kick-up. This type of blade is also a good choice for those who have a small lawn or who want to push their mower instead of riding it.
2. Mower Types
Push Mower:
A push mower is a manually operated mower that is ideal for small lawns. It is a low-cost option that is easy to store and maintain. However, it can be tiring to use on large lawns.
Riding Mower:
A riding mower is a motor-powered mower that the operator rides on. It is a good choice for larger lawns or for those who want to mow their lawn quickly and easily.
Zero-Turn Mower:
3. Lawn Patterns
Striping:
Striping is the process of creating contrasting light and dark stripes on the lawn by bending the grass in different directions. This can be done with a push mower or a riding mower. Striping can make your lawn look more professional and well-maintained.
Checkerboard:
The checkerboard lawn pattern is a step up from striping. It involves mowing in perpendicular directions to create a checkerboard effect. This pattern is more challenging to achieve, but it can add a touch of sophistication to your lawn.
Diamond Pattern:
The diamond lawn pattern is similar to the checkerboard, but it is mowed at diagonal angles. This pattern is the most difficult to achieve, but it can add a touch of luxury to your lawn.
4. Maintenance Terms
Dethatching:
Dethatching is the process of removing the layer of dead turfgrass tissue, known as thatch. Thatch can block water and nutrients from reaching the soil, which can damage the grass. Dethatching should be done once or twice a year, depending on the type of grass you have and the amount of thatch buildup.
Aeration:
Aeration is the process of puncturing the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots. This can improve the health and appearance of your lawn. Aeration should be done once or twice a year, depending on the type of soil you have and the amount of traffic your lawn receives.
Overseeding:
Overseeding is the act of planting new grass seeds over existing turf. This can help to fill in bare spots and improve the overall density of your lawn. Overseeding should be done in the spring or fall, when the weather is cool and moist.