4 Most Common Florida Turf Grasses

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St. Augustine grass typically requires weekly mowing. Grass clippings should be left on a lawn that is mowed at the proper height and frequency. The ideal mowing height for St. Augustinegrass can range from 2.5 to 4 inches depending on the specific site and management regime and is best determined by the growing conditions.

Bahiagrass should be mowed with a rotary mower every 7–14 days to a height of 3–4 inches. The higher mowing height promotes a deeper, more extensive root system that makes the grass more stress tolerant. As Bahia grass does not grow extremely tall, mowing cycles are often dictated by seed head production. Clippings should be left on the ground after mowing.

Zoysia grasses require regular mowing during the summer to look their best. Medium- to coarse-textured zoysiagrasses should be mowed weekly, or when they reach a height of 3–4 inches. They should be mowed at a height of 1.75–2.5 inches with a rotary mower. Fine-textured zoysiagrasses maintained at heights below 1 inch require more frequent mowing. Because zoysiagrass leaves contain more lignin and silica than other turfgrasses, they can be quite difficult to mow. Clippings should be left on the ground after mowing unless they become excessive and clump on the turf surface.

Under low to moderate levels of management, Bermuda grass should be cut at a height of 1 to 2 inches, which may require mowing one to two times per week. This will help the grass develop a deep root system and give it a better appearance. Under higher levels of management, bermudagrass can be maintained at a height of ½ inch, but this height will require more frequent mowing during the growing season. A reel mower is preferred for cutting the fine textured bermuda grass cultivars that are mowed at heights below 1 inch. Clippings can be left on turf to provide supplemental nutrients.