Simplicity ZT2148T - Manual (Page 36)

LC-3
Lawn Care & Mowing Information
Where possible, make one or two passes around the
outside of the area discharging the grass INTO the lawn
to keep the cut grass off fences and walks.
WHEN AND HOW OFTEN TO MOW
The time of day and condition of the grass greatly affect
the results you’ll get when mowing. For the best results,
follow these guidelines:
l Mow when the grass is between three and five inches
high.
l Mow with sharp blades. Short clippings of grass one
inch or shorter decompose more quickly than longer
blades. Sharp mower blades cut grass cleanly and
efficiently, preventing frayed edges which harm the
grass.
l Mow at time of day when the grass is cool and dry.
Late afternoon or early evening often provide these
ideal mowing conditions.
l Avoid mowing after rain or even heavy dew, and
never mulch when the grass is wet (moist grass does
not mulch well, and clumps beneath the mower
deck).
WHAT MOWING PATTERNS TO USE
Always start mowing on a smooth, level area.
The size and type of area to be mowed will determine
the best mowing pattern to use. Obstructions such as
trees, fences and buildings, and conditions such as
slopes and grades must also be considered.
l Cut long straight strips overlapping slightly.
l Where possible, change patterns occasionally to
eliminate matting, graining or a corrugated appear-
ance.
l For a truly professional cut, mow across the lawn in
one direction, then recut the lawn by mowing perpen-
dicular to the previous cut.
The remainder of the mowing should be done in the
opposite direction so that the clippings are dispersed
OUT onto the area of lawn previously cut.
Note: Always operate the engine at full throttle when
mowing.
If you hear the engine slowing down, you are mowing too
fast—using a slower ground speed will improve the cut-
ting efficiency of the blades and prevents many common
cutting problems. Use an appropriate ground speed for
the thickness and height of the grass you are cutting (3rd
gear or slower for manual gear models). If you hear the
engine slowing down you are mowing too fast, use a
slower ground speed.