Why Cutting Your Grass High in July Is the Smartest Move You Can Make
July in South Louisiana is no joke. Between the scorching temps, unpredictable storms, and sticky humidity, your lawn is under some serious stress. That’s why one of the smartest things you can do right now is... mow high.
At Cultivate, we don’t just mow for looks — we mow for lawn health. And when the summer heat kicks in, cutting grass short is a fast way to fry your turf.
Let’s talk about why cutting high in July is the way to go.
Taller Grass = Stronger Roots
Grass blades are like solar panels. When you mow too short, you reduce the lawn’s ability to photosynthesize — which weakens root growth and stresses the plant.
Longer blades = deeper roots = healthier grass.
Your lawn will hold moisture better and bounce back quicker after stress (like drought or foot traffic).
High Grass Protects the Soil
Taller grass helps shade the soil underneath, which means:
-Less evaporation
-Cooler soil temps
-Fewer weeds sprouting in bare patches
This is especially important for St. Augustine and Zoysia, which thrive when left just a little longer.
Don’t Let Fungus & Weeds Take Over
Scalped grass is an invitation for lawn trouble. We’re talking:
-Dollar spot
-Brown patch fungus
-Crabgrass and sedge invasion
By cutting high, you keep the turf thick and dense — creating a natural barrier that blocks out pests and disease.
How High Should You Mow in July?
Every grass type has its sweet spot. In South Louisiana, we commonly see:
St. Augustine: 3.5”–4”
Zoysia: 2.5”–3”
Centipede: 2”–2.5”
Bermuda: 1.5”–2” (but keep it on the taller end during summer)
And always follow the ⅓ rule: never cut more than ⅓ of the blade at one time.
Bonus Tips from Cultivate:
-Mow in the morning. Avoid heat stress by cutting before 10 AM.
-Sharpen your blades. Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting it — a fast way to damage your lawn.
-Skip the bag. If your clippings are short and dry, mulching them back into the lawn helps feed your soil.
Lawn Care Built for Louisiana Heat
At Cultivate, we mow smarter — not shorter.
Our team is trained to recognize local grass types, soil conditions, and weather patterns so your lawn stays green, lush, and resilient all summer long. We’re not just cutting grass — we’re protecting your investment.
Book Weekly Lawn Care Today!
Let us handle the heat so you can enjoy your summer. Serving Covington • Mandeville • Slidell • and St. Tammany LA
Call us today! Or complete a digital service form while you’re here to get started!
