Improve your Lawn and Save Time by Sharpening the Mower Blades

Melinda’s Garden Moments is heard Mon.-Fri. at 7:45 and 10:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on WHAV.

Melinda’s Garden Moments is heard Mon.-Fri. at 7:45 and 10:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on WHAV.

Save time, fuel, water and improve the look of your lawn by sharpening your mower’s blades.

Dull blades tear the grass instead of making a clean cut. This results in a dull or brownish cast to the lawn. This also increases the risk of disease as the tears close more slowly than a clean cut, providing an entryway for disease.

Sharp blades also save time as you can cut more efficiently when the blades are sharp. And speaking of savings, you’ll consume 22% less fuel and the lawn will use up to 30% less water when using sharp blades.

Sharpen blades at least twice a season. Always remove the spark plug before removing the blades for sharpening. Make it easier to implement this change of habit by investing in a second set of blades. That way you will always have a sharp set ready to install.

A bit more information: Avoid cutting grass when it’s wet and more likely to tear or during extended dry periods that can further stress the lawn. For tips on safely sharpening and balancing mower blades, click here.

For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com.