Sharpen mower blades before the first cut

Remove mower blades and sharpen them with a bench grinder or file before the first spring mow. Aim for a butter-knife edge — sharp but not razor-thin.

Why It Works

Dull blades tear grass rather than cutting it cleanly, leaving ragged tips that turn brown and become entry points for disease. University research shows clean cuts reduce water loss and disease susceptibility significantly.

Tips

• Sharpen rotary blades every 20-25 hours of mowing, or roughly twice per season for average homeowners.
• Balance the blade after sharpening by hanging it on a nail — an unbalanced blade causes vibration and uneven cuts.