How to Mow Athletic Fields

Groundskeepers for athletic fields have the primary responsibility of keeping the playing field trimmed and maintained for athletes. In addition to fertilizing and irrigating the field, the infield and outfield must be properly mowed with high performance lawn equipment. Both ride-on mowers and walk-behind mowers are used to trim specific areas of grass. Groundskeepers must have the knowledge of what height to cut the field to prevent it from becoming damaged. Mowing schedules and techniques can vary depending on the facility, budget and environmental factors.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose between a rotary and reel mower to cut the athletic field. Reel mowers provide a better quality cut for high maintenance facilities. Mow outfields with a riding mower or park district mower. Mow infields with a riding mower or walk-behind mower.

    • 2

      Determine mowing heights according to the type of grass in the athletic field. Cut Bluegrass to a height of 1 to 1-1/2-inch. Cut Tall Fescue grass to a height of 2-inches. Cut Zoysia grass to a height of 1/2 to 1-inch. Cut Bermuda grass to a height of 1/2 to 1-inch.

    • 3

      Start the mower on the athletic field at home plate in the infield. Mow back and forth from home plate to second base. Mow in an up and down pattern parallel to the left or right foul line.

    • 4

      Move the mower to second base in the outfield. Mow the field in a back and forth pattern from second base to center field. Maneuver the mower between the two foul poles and mow back and forth between them.

    • 5

      Cut the grass on an athletic field an average of twice per week. Never cut more than 1/3 of the blade of grass when mowing. Mowing too often or too short in height can lead to discoloration or ruts in the grass. Alternatively, leaving the grass too high can cause the grass to become clumpy.