Tips For Mowing Grass - Toro 74412 Operator's Manual

Tips for Mowing Grass

Fast Throttle Setting
For best mowing and maximum air circulation, operate the
engine at Fast. Air is required to thoroughly cut grass
clippings, so do not set the height-of-cut so low as to totally
surround the mower by uncut grass. Always try to have one
side of the mower free from uncut grass, which allows air
to be drawn into the mower.
Cutting a Lawn for the First Time
Cut grass slightly longer than normal to ensure that the
cutting height of the mower does not scalp any uneven
ground. However, the cutting height used in the past is
generally the best one to use. When cutting grass longer
than 6 inches (15 cm) tall, you may want to cut the lawn
twice to ensure an acceptable quality of cut.
Cut 1/3 of the Grass Blade
It is best to cut only about 1/3 of the grass blade. Cutting
more than that is not recommended unless grass is sparse,
or it is late fall when grass grows more slowly.
Mowing Direction
Alternate the mowing direction to keep the grass standing
straight. This also helps disperse clippings, which enhances
decomposition and fertilization.
Mow at Correct Intervals
Normally, mow every 4 days. But remember, grass grows at
different rates at different times. So to maintain the same
cutting height, which is a good practice, mow more often in
early spring. As the grass growth rate slows in mid summer,
mow less frequently. If you cannot mow for an extended
period, first mow at a high cutting height; then mow again
2 days later at a lower height setting.
Cutting Speed
To improve the quality of cut, use a slower ground speed.
Avoid Cutting Too Low
If the cutting width of the mower is wider than the mower
you previously used, raise the cutting height to ensure that
uneven turf is not cut too short.
Long Grass
If you allow the grass to grow slightly longer than normal,
or if it contains a high degree of moisture, raise the cutting
height higher than usual and cut the grass at this setting.
Then cut the grass again using the lower, normal setting.
When Stopping
If you must stop the machine's forward motion while
mowing, a clump of grass clippings may drop onto your
lawn. To avoid this, move onto a previously cut area with
the blades engaged.
Keep the Underside of the Mower Clean
Clean clippings and dirt from the underside of the mower
after each use. If grass and dirt build up inside the mower,
the cutting quality will eventually become unsatisfactory.
Blade Maintenance
Maintain a sharp blade throughout the cutting season,
because a sharp blade cuts cleanly without tearing or
shredding the grass blades. Tearing and shredding turns
grass brown at the edges, which slows its growth and
increases the chance of disease. Check the cutter blades
daily for sharpness, and for any wear or damage. File down
any nicks and sharpen the blades as necessary. If a blade is
damaged or worn, replace it immediately with a genuine
Toro replacement blade.
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