Cross-cutting a lawn, sometimes called double-cutting, is a technique where the entire lawn area is mowed twice, with the second pass running at a 90-degree angle to the first. This method is often employed to achieve the distinct, professional checkerboard or striped pattern seen on sports fields and golf courses. The dual-direction cut ensures a uniform trim by targeting grass blades pushed down by the mower wheels during the initial pass, ultimately contributing to a manicured finish.
Essential Mower Preparation
A clean cut begins with proper equipment setup. The mower blades must be kept sharp, as dull edges rip and tear the grass instead of slicing cleanly, which stresses the plant and can lead to a ragged, brown appearance. Sharpening the blades a few times annually ensures the cleanest possible cut for turf health.
The cutting height requires careful consideration, as cross-cutting often involves two separate settings. Before the first pass, the lawn must be cleared of debris, such as sticks or stones, to prevent damage to the mower blades. For the first pass, the deck height is typically set slightly higher than the final desired length, often the tallest setting. Observing the one-third rule—never removing more than one-third of the grass blade’s height—is fundamental practice to avoid stressing the turf.
Executing the Initial Pass
The initial cut establishes the first set of parallel lines. To ensure a straight pattern, begin by mowing a single perimeter pass around the entire lawn, which creates a clean border and a clear turning area. When starting the first row, choose a fixed point in the distance, such as a fence post, and aim the mower directly toward it to maintain a perfectly straight line across the turf.
Subsequent rows should run parallel to the first, with each pass slightly overlapping the previous one to avoid leaving thin strips of uncut grass, known as “holidays.” The direction of this first pass should generally follow the longest dimension of the lawn, minimizing the number of turns required. Moving at a slightly slower pace than usual allows the blades more time to cut through dense or long grass, resulting in a cleaner and more even initial trim.
The Perpendicular Second Cut
Completing the first pass prepares the lawn surface for the second, perpendicular cut. Before beginning the second pass, the mower deck is often lowered by one or two settings to reach the final, shorter cut height. This two-step reduction minimizes the shock to the grass plant while ensuring a precise final height.
The second pass involves turning 90 degrees from the direction of the first cut, creating lines that intersect the initial pattern. If the first cut was north-south, the second pass should be east-west, creating the distinct checkerboard effect. This perpendicular action lifts grass blades compressed by the wheels during the first pass, guaranteeing a uniform height across the entire lawn. The resulting visual effect of alternating light and dark squares is created by the mower’s wheels bending the grass blades in opposite directions, changing how sunlight reflects off the turf surface.
When to Employ This Technique
Cross-cutting is a specialized technique used for aesthetic enhancement and achieving a highly manicured appearance. The most recognizable result is professional-grade lawn striping, where the alternating direction of the bent grass blades produces an impressive contrast in color and texture. This method also promotes healthier turf growth by ensuring the grass blades stand upright rather than growing at an angle due to repeated mowing in the same direction.
The dual passes also help chop and disperse grass clippings more finely, allowing them to decompose faster and return nutrients to the soil. This technique is not necessary for every routine mow, as the added time and effort are considerable. It is best reserved for special occasions, such as parties or events, or performed every few weeks during the peak growing season to maintain the visual pattern. Alternating the direction of a single cut during regular weekly mowing prevents soil compaction and promotes upright growth.