The Perfect Lawn Cutting Height: Recommended Cutting Heights for Minnesota Lawns

If you’ve ever wondered why your grass looks patchy or stressed after mowing, the answer might be as simple as your cutting height. Here in St. Cloud, where we deal with hot

summers and snowy winters, the height of your grass plays a big role in its overall health. Let’s break down the ideal mowing height and why it matters. Recommended Cutting Heights for Minnesota Lawns.

1. Why Lawn Cutting Height Matters

Cutting your grass too short (often called “scalping”) weakens its root system, making it more vulnerable to weeds, pests, and drought stress. On the other hand, leaving it too long can cause matting and invite disease.

2. Recommended Cutting Heights for Minnesota Lawns

Most St. Cloud lawns are made up of cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fescues, and perennial ryegrass. These thrive when cut to:

• Spring & Fall: 2.5 to 3 inches

• Summer: 3 to 3.5 inches (slightly taller to shade roots and conserve moisture)

• Final Mow Before Winter: Around 2 inches to reduce snow mold risk

3. Follow the One-Third Rule

Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing session. This reduces shock to the plant and keeps your lawn greener and healthier.

4. Extra Tips for the Best Cut

• Keep your mower blades sharp — dull blades tear grass, leaving it ragged.

• Mow in different patterns each time to avoid ruts and soil compaction.

• Leave grass clippings on the lawn to return nutrients (mulching).

5. Seasonal Considerations in St. Cloud

Because we deal with freezing winters and hot summers:

• In summer, higher grass helps retain soil moisture.

• In fall, lowering your height slightly prepares the lawn for winter dormancy.

Getting your mowing height right is a small change that makes a big difference in your lawn’s health year-round. If you’d like help with regular lawn care — from mowing to seasonal maintenance — our Canvas Landscaping LLC team in St. Cloud is here to help.

Call us at 320-281-9186 or request a free quote online today.