The turgrass species selected for your site and the use of the turf are the most important factors to consider when selecting the height of cut. Kentucky bluegrass and perennial rye will tolerate the lower end of the range while all fescue and fine fescue will benefit from the higher end of the range. Shaded turfs should also be mowed at the high range to maximize leaf-surface area. This may require mowing twice a week in the spring, every two weeks in the summer and once a week in the fall. As the table shows, higher cutting heights allow more time between mowing cycles which can be an advantage during periods of rapid growth.
Return clippings back to the lawn whenever possible.
Excessive accumulation of clippings from infrequent mowing may smother the turf and should be removed. A popular folk lore belief is that clippings left on the lawn will promote thatch buildup. This is not true. Clippings do not make significant contributions to thatch and should be returned to the lawn whenever possible. These leaves contain mostly water and break down rapidly, releasing the nutrients back into the system.