Mowing; Mowing Recommendations - Ferris IS5100ZC33D72RD Operator's Manual

Mowing

1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure that the
PTO switch is disengaged, the ground speed
control levers are locked in the NEUTRAL position
and the operator is in the seat.
2. Start the engine. See Starting the Engine.
3. Set the mower cutting height.
4. Set the throttle to the 1/2 throttle position.
NOTE: It is best practice to engage the PTO with the
throttle set at the minimum throttle position necessary
to engage the deck drive system without stalling the
engine.
5. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch.
6. Move the throttle to the "FAST" position and begin
mowing.
7. When finished, reduce throttle speed so that the
engine idles and push the PTO switch down to
shut off the PTO.
8. Stop the engine. See Stopping the Rider &
Engine.

Mowing Recommendations

Several factors can affect how well your machine cuts
grass, Following proper mowing recommendations
can improve the performance and life of your
machine.
Height of Grass
Often cutting height is a matter of personal
preference. Typically, you should mow the grass
when it is is between three and five inches high.
The proper cutting height range for a specific lawn
will depend upon several factors, including the
type of grass, the amount of rainfall, the prevailing
temperature, and the lawn's overall condition.
Cutting the grass too short causes weak, thin grass
plants, which are easily damaged by dry periods and
pests. Cutting too short is often more damaging than
allowing the grass to be slightly higher.
Letting grass grow a bit longer—especially when it
is hot and dry—reduces heat build-up, preserves
needed moisture and protects the grass from heat
damage and other problems. However, allowing grass
to grow too high can cause thin turf and additional
problems.
Cutting off too much at one time shocks the plant's
growth system and weakens the grass plants. A
good rule of thumb is the 1/3 rule: to cut no more
than one third of the grass height, and never
more than 1 inch at a time.
The amount of grass you are able to cut in one pass
is also effected by the type of mowing system you are
using (for example, broadcasting with side discharge
decks can process a much larger volume of grass
than mulching does).
Proper Cutting Height
Tall Grass Requires Incremental Cutting
For extremely tall grass, set the cutting height at
maximum for the first pass, and then reset it to the
desired height and mow a second or third time.
Don't cover the grass surface with a heavy layer of
clippings. Consider using a grass collection system
and starting a compost pile.
Cut Here On
First Pass
Incremental Cutting
Operation
Cut
Here On
Second
Pass
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