Cutting diagonal lines into your lawn is simple and can bring interest and appeal to your garden. Proper mowing practices are essential for a healthy lawn. Healthy lawns will tolerate moisture fluctuations better, have fewer weeds and appear thicker. When your lawn is strong and lush, patterns will show up more readily. You can create a lined pattern on your lawn by mowing on a diagonal, overlapping slightly and changing directions each time you complete a line.
Prepare your lawn by clearing away any rocks, toys or other debris. Use caution when operating your mower, making certain all safety shields are in place and operational. Make sure your power or push mower's blade is sharp so that you will not damage your grass. Mow your lawn wearing sturdy shoes with good traction.
Divide your lawn into sections. If you have lawns in both the front and back of your home, you can create diagonal lines in each area separately. Begin in your first section by mowing around the entire perimeter of the lawn.
Start in one corner of your lawn, facing toward the center of the lawn. Position your mower at a 45-degree angle. Be careful when making your first line and strive for as straight a line as possible. Push the mower forward slowly until you reach the end of that line on the other side. Continue to push the mower off of the lawn to avoid turning lines. This first line will form the basis for your diagonal lawn design.
Turn the mower around so that it faces the opposite direction. You will want to follow your original line back to the other side. Overlap the original line by approximately 6 inches, then begin to mow in the opposite direction. This overlap is key to making the lines appear more pronounced.
Mow your lawn back and forth in a diagonal pattern until you reach the opposite corner of your lawn. Be sure to overlap each line with the last, keeping each line consistent. Continue with this method until your entire lawn is mowed.
Things You Will Need
- Power mower or push mower
- Rake (optional)
- Mow your grass on a dry day. Wet grass is more difficult to cut and can sometimes clog rotary mowers.
- Try to maintain consistent speed as you mow for the most even lines.
- Mowers with thicker wheels will make better lines, as the wheels tend to bend grass in one direction.
- In hot weather,drink lots of water and use sun protection while mowing your lawn.
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