The HOC (Height of Cut) and mowing frequency are two factors that homeowners regularly overlook, but these are crucial for the success of your lawn. 

You must mow to the height of the specific needs of your grass type and lawn conditions. 

The grass blade is how your grass feeds. Removing too much leaf and the grass may not get enough sunlight to survive. Take off too much at once and it can shock your grass. In general, grass maintained at a higher hoc can produce more carbohydrates and will have deeper stronger roots. 

5 Big Things to Takeaway:

1. Mow often enough to not take off more than 1/3 of the grass blade. 

2. Keep your mower blades sharp so they don't tear the grass. 

3. Mow at the correct height for your grass type. 

4. Alternate your cutting pattern. 

5. Leave the clipping on the yard. 

Best recommended HOC for the 3 top STL grass varieties:

1. Zoysia- using a reel mower 1"-1.75", standard rotary 2"-3" (increasing height into the heat of summer or for shaded areas)

2. Tall Fescue- 3.5"-4.25" (the higher the better, unless it begins to layover too much from foot traffic)

3. Bermuda- using a reel mower 1"-1.75", standard rotary 2"