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Mowing at least once a week during the growing season is a good general rule. However, every lawn is different, and factors like frequent rain and fertilizer use can cause grass to grow faster, potentially requiring mowing as often as every four days. When you mow, always follow the 'one-third rule': never cut more than one-third of the grass blade's height at once, as this can weaken it and prevent it from taking in proper nutrients. For most grass types, the ideal height is around 2 to 3 inches, though some warm-weather grasses do better when kept shorter at about 1.5 to 2 inches.

The decision of whether or not to let moss grow in your yard depends on your preference. Moss is a lower-maintenance alternative to grass that looks green and lush but doesn’t require irrigation, fertilization, or mowing. Unlike grass, moss doesn’t attract pests, so it can keep your yard free from bugs as well. However, moss won’t stand up to heavy foot traffic as well as turfgrass. 

The average cost to mow a lawn is about $125 per visit, with prices typically ranging from $50 to $205. The final cost depends on several factors, including your location, yard size, lawn shape, accessibility, grass type and length, and the frequency of service. Lawns with obstacles, steep slopes, or hard-to-reach areas may cost more. If a company charges by size, you can expect to pay between $0.01 and $0.06 per square foot, or $150 to $200 per acre.

A general breakdown of costs by lawn size is as follows:

• 3,500 square feet: $35–$210

• 5,000 square feet: $50–$300

• 10,000 square feet: $100–$600

• 1 Acre: $150–$200

• 2 Acres: $300–$400

• 3 Acres: $450–$600

• 4 Acres: $600–$800

• 5 Acres: $750–$1,000

• 10 Acres: $1,500–$2,000

• 15 Acres: $2,250–$3,000

Keep in mind that these prices generally cover routine maintenance like mowing and edging. Additional services such as raking leaves, weeding, trimming, or applying pesticides can add $400 or more to your total cost.

You should mow your lawn first and water it afterward, in most cases. You should not mow when your lawn it’s wet as it could clog the blades. If you haven't been watering your lawn for an extended time or your area is experiencing a drought, water your grass first. Mowing thin, wispy grass can be difficult, so allow it to become fuller and thicker before mowing. Once it looks more lush and dry, go ahead and mow.