Mowing; Mowing Recommendations - Ferris IS2000Z Series Operator's Manual

Operation

Mowing

1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO
switch is disengaged, the motion control levers
are locked in the NEUTRAL position and the
operator is on the seat.
2. Start the engine (see STARTING THE ENGINE).
3. Set the mower cutting height.
4. Set the throttle to FULL.
5. Engage the PTO by pulling up on the PTO switch.
6. Begin mowing.
7. When finished, shut off the PTO.
8. Stop the engine (see
STOPPING THE TRACTOR AND 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.
18
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).
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.
When and How Often to Mow
The time of day and condition of the grass greatly
affect the results you'll get when mowing. For the best
results, follow these guidelines:
1. Mow when the grass is between three and five
2. Mow with sharp blades. Short clippings of grass
3. Mow at time of day when the grass is cool and
4. Avoid mowing after rain or even heavy dew, and
Mowing Patterns
1/3
Always start mowing on a smooth, level area.
The size and type of area to be mowed will determine
the best mowing pattern to use. Obstructions such as
trees, fences and buildings, and conditions such as
slopes and grades must also be considered.
1. Cut long straight strips overlapping slightly.
1"
2. Where possible, change patterns occasionally
Cut Here On
First Pass
inches high.
one inch or shorter decompose more quickly than
longer blades. Sharp mower blades cut grass
cleanly and efficiently, preventing frayed edges
which harm the grass.
dry. Late afternoon or early evening often provide
these ideal mowing conditions.
never mulch when the grass is wet (moist grass
does not mulch well, and clumps beneath the
mower deck).
to eliminate matting, graining or a corrugated
appearance.
Cut
Here On
Second
Pass
www.ferrisindustries.com