Mower Settings vs. Actual Mowing Height: Why They’re Not the Same
When it comes to mowing, many homeowners assume their mower’s “setting” number equals the height of the grass in inches—but that’s not always true. Each mower brand and model is different, and the number or lever position on your mower doesn’t necessarily correspond to a specific inch measurement.
Understanding Mower Settings vs. Height
Setting: The number or lever position that adjusts the mower deck.
Height: The actual distance from the blade to the ground, measured in inches.
A mower set to “5” on one brand might cut at 2.5 inches, while another cuts at 3.5 inches. To know for sure, check your mower’s manual or measure it yourself with a tape measure.
Why Mowing Height Matters
For most lawns, a mowing height between 2.5-3 inches is ideal in Spring and Fall. In summer, when temperatures rise, aim for 3.5-4.5 inches - longer blades shade the roots, conserve moisture, and reduce drought stress.
Taller grass also:
Promotes deeper roots for stronger, healthier turf
Shades out weeds, reducing the need for extra control
And remember: never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. Cutting too short (“scalping”) stresses your lawn and leaves it vulnerable to disease and heat damage.
How to Find the Right Height
Check your mower manual for exact settings in inches.
Measure manually—from the ground to the blade - to confirm.
Err on the high side when unsure; higher mowing is healthier than too short.
Adjust by season—raise the mower in summer, and lower slightly for your final fall mow.
Taking a few minutes to verify your mower height ensures your lawn stays lush, green, and stress-free all season long.