Blade Maintenance; Cutting Speed - Toro 30252 Operator's Manual

the best one to use. When cutting grass longer than 6 in.
(152 mm) 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 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 four days, but remember, grass
grows at different rates at different times. 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 two days later at a lower height setting.

Cutting Speed

To improve cut quality, use a slower ground speed.
Avoid Cutting Too Low
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.
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 the grass 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 the machine must be stopped while mowing, a clump of
grass clippings may drop onto the lawn. To avoid this,
move onto a previously cut area with the blade 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,
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 growth and
increases the chance of disease. Check the blade daily for
sharpness and for any wear or damage. File down any
nicks and sharpen the blade as necessary. If a blade is
damaged or worn, replace it immediately with a genuine
Toro replacement blade.
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