Getting those perfect, crisp lines in commercial grass cutting requires a combination of technique, equipment, and maintenance. Here’s how you can achieve them:
1. Use the Right Mower
- Striping Kits: Attach a striping kit or roller to your mower to bend the grass in alternating directions.
- High-Quality Blades: Sharp blades ensure a clean cut and help reflect light better, enhancing striping effects.
- Deck Height: Keep your mower deck at an appropriate height (around 3-4 inches) to allow grass to bend and reflect light properly.
2. Mowing Techniques
- Mow in Straight Lines: Pick a reference point in the distance and keep your eyes on it while mowing to maintain straight lines.
- Overlap Slightly: Each pass should slightly overlap the previous one to avoid uncut grass or uneven patterns.
- Change Directions Weekly: Alternate mowing directions each time to keep grass healthy and prevent ruts.
3. Utilize Light Reflection
- Grass blades that bend toward you appear darker, while blades bending away appear lighter. The contrast creates the striped effect.
4. Double Pass for Stronger Stripes
- If you want deeper and more visible stripes, go over the same lines again in the same direction.
5. Consider Different Patterns
- Basic Stripes: Mow back and forth in straight lines.
- Checkerboard: Mow in perpendicular directions, then roll over again for extra contrast.
- Diagonal or Diamond: Mow at a 45-degree angle to property edges for a unique look.
6. Maintain Your Lawn
- Healthy, lush grass stripes better. Keep up with fertilization, watering, and aeration for optimal striping results.
Mike Tzakas
LPM
Director of Sales
416-561-3911
www.LPM1.ca