Base mowing frequency on the rate your lawn is growing. Do not remove more than one-third of the grass leaf in any one cutting . Mowing on a regular basis as the lawn needs it is essential. Don't mow when the grass is wet. As long as the lawn is mowed on a regular basis and the clippings readily filter back down into the lawn, clippings do not need to be collected .
Clippings also recycle nutrients, in particular nitrogen, so less fertilizer is needed.
Selecting a mower can involve a number of factors, many being personal preference. A study at the University of Illinois showed mulching mowers did not provide any additional benefit over conventional rotary mowers returning clippings, assuming proper mowing frequency and lawn fertilizing was followed. Regardless of the type of mower, blades need to be kept sharp . Mow in the direction that is safest. Periodically change directions if desired, although mowing the same direction each time should not be a problem on taller grass of home lawns.