The 3 Most Common Lawn Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Let’s be real — lawn care shouldn’t feel like rocket science. But a few small mistakes can throw your whole yard off. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or just trying to keep the neighbors quiet, these quick fixes will help you dodge the most common lawn issues we see.

1. Mowing Too Short ("Scalping")

The Mistake:

You're thinking, “If I cut it lower, I won’t have to mow as often.” Nope. That’s like giving your grass a buzz cut with no guard on.

Why It’s Bad:

Cutting too short stresses the grass, dries out the soil, and gives weeds the green light to move in.

How to Fix It:

• Stick to the “1/3 Rule”: Never cut more than 1/3 of the blade at once.

• For most Alberta lawns, aim for 2.5" to 3" tall.

• Taller grass = deeper roots = less watering + fewer weeds.

Pro Tip: Keep your mower blades high and sharp. It’s not a race — it’s a tune-up.

2. Watering Too Often (But Not Deep Enough)

The Mistake:

Daily watering seems like a good thing, right? Not if it only soaks the top inch.

Why It’s Bad:

Shallow watering keeps the roots lazy and shallow too. This makes your grass more sensitive to heat, drought, and disease.

How to Fix It:

• Water deeply once or twice a week, early morning is best.

• Let the water soak down about 6–8 inches.

• Use a screwdriver to test how far the moisture goes — if it sinks in easily, you're good.

Pro Tip: A single, deep watering session is worth more than 5 quick sprinkles.

3. Using a Dull Mower Blade

The Mistake:

If your mower sounds like it’s chewing instead of slicing, chances are the blade’s toast.

Why It’s Bad:

Dull blades tear grass, leaving brown tips and open wounds for fungus and disease.

How to Fix It:

• Sharpen your blade at least once per season — more if you’re mowing weekly.

• Not comfortable sharpening it? Most hardware stores or small engine shops will do it for cheap.

Pro Tip: Sharp blade = clean cut = greener grass. It’s that simple.

These aren’t big fixes. But they make a big difference. A few tweaks to your mowing, watering, and blade care can take your lawn from patchy and tired to lush and thriving.

You Got This — Or We Got You

Want a lawn that turns heads but don’t have the time (or patience)? That’s where Acres Lawncare comes in. Alberta’s firefighter-owned, Indigenous-built team — on time, in uniform, and ready to work.

Book your lawn service today!