UC Healthy Lawns—Mowing: Recommendations for warm season grasses

The UC Guide to Healthy Lawns

Mowing warm-season grasses

Recommendations for mowing warm-season grasses
Turf species	Set mower to:	Mow when turf reaches:
Bermudagrass	1 - 1 1/2 inches (for seeded bermudagrass) 1/2 - 1 inch (for hybrids)	1 1/2 - 2 1/4 inches (for seeded bermudagrass) 3/4 - 1 1/2 inches (for hybrids)
Buffalograss	1 - 2 inches	1 1/2 - 3 inches
Dichondra	1/2 - 3/4 inch (Can remain unmowed)	3/4 - 1 1/8 inches
Kikuyugrass	1 - 1 1/2 inches	1 1/2 - 2 1/4 inches
Seashore paspalum	3/4 - 1 1/2 inches	1 1/8 - 2 1/4 inches
St. Augustinegrass	1 - 2 inches	1 1/2 - 3 inches
Zoysiagrass	1/2 - 1 inch	3/4 - 1 1/2 inches

Cut on the higher end of the recommended range if you are mowing a new lawn for the first time or to produce a turf that is more tolerant of drought, heat, traffic, shade, and pests. Mow grass mixtures at the height that favors the predominant or most desirable grass.

Only remove one-third of the height of the lawn at a time.

Illustration of growth rate for warm season grasses

Mow frequently during the spring and summer when leaves are actively growing. Less frequent or no mowing is required as growth slows or the grass goes dormant in the fall and winter.

Statewide IPM Program, Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California
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