As the mowing season comes to a close, consumers with used tractors may consider taking them out a few last times to care for their lawns.
In a recent piece for the Grant Tribune Sentinel, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension horticulturist David Lott wrote that summer is usually a time to keep the height of tractor blades around three inches. That ensures lawns aren't stressed during warmer times.
However, falling temperatures that come with this time of year should lead homeowners to lower the decks on their used tractors.
"For bluegrass varieties, lower the mower height to 2 inches from September 1 through October 15," Lott wrote. "For fescue lawns, gradually lower the mower height to 2.5 inches between September 1 and the last mowing in mid-November."
Experts note fall may also provide an ideal time for additional fertilizing. An application now will help grasses get a head start in the spring.
Additional watering may also help, as the cooler temperatures can aid the growth of root systems, which is another factor in lawns having a healthy growing season next year.
Different grasses require variances on used tractor deck heights
Fall should cause people pay attention to the height of their used tractors.