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It’s a question that many of us have faced as we go out to tend the lawn — is it okay to mow over sticks and other debris that has collected on our grass? After all, unless we’re lucky enough to live in an area completely devoid of trees, it’s almost certain that at least a few twigs, leaves, and pinecones will make their way onto the grass. But what if you run them over with your lawnmower? Is this okay, or should you pick up the debris by hand every time?
Can You Mow Over Sticks?
it is generally safe to mow over small sticks and twigs with a lawn mower However, larger sticks and debris can become caught in the mower blades, causing damage to the mower and posing a safety hazard.
Understanding Sticks and Lawn Mowers
Sticks are a common sight on most lawns, and they can be a nuisance when it comes to mowing.
While it is possible to mow over sticks, it is not always recommended. Here are some things to keep in mind when considering mowing over sticks:
- Size Matters: The size of the sticks is an important factor to consider. Small twigs and sticks may not be a problem for most mowers, but larger branches can cause damage to the blades and even pose a safety hazard. It is best to remove larger sticks from the lawn before mowing.
- Blade Damage: Sticks and other debris can become caught in the blades of the mower, causing damage to the mower and even posing a safety hazard. It is important to check the blades for damage before and after mowing over sticks.
- Safety Precautions: When mowing over sticks, it is important to wear protective gear such as gloves and eye protection. This will help prevent injuries from flying debris.Read Also: Can You Mow Wet Leaves?
Potential Risks of Mowing Over Sticks
Mowing over sticks may seem like an easy way to get rid of debris on your lawn, but it comes with potential risks that you should be aware of. Here are some of the risks associated with mowing over sticks:
- Blade damage: Sticks can get caught in the blades of your mower, causing damage to the blades. This can result in costly repairs or even the need to replace your mower entirely.
- Safety hazards: Mowing over sticks can cause them to fly out of the mower and potentially injure someone nearby. This is especially true if the sticks are larger in size.
- Uneven mowing: Mowing over sticks can cause your mower to bounce or become uneven, resulting in an uneven mowing job. This can leave your lawn looking patchy or uneven.
- Environmental impact: Mowing over sticks can damage your lawn and soil. As the sticks break down, they release carbon and other nutrients into the soil. Mowing over them can disrupt this process and lead to nutrient depletion in your soil.
Types of Sticks You Can Mow Over
When it comes to mowing over sticks, not all sticks are created equal. Some sticks can be mowed over without causing any harm to the lawnmower, while others can cause damage.
Here are the two types of sticks that you can safely mow over:
Small Twigs
Small twigs are thin and flexible, and they can be easily mowed over without causing any damage to the lawnmower.
In fact, some lawnmowers are designed to mulch small twigs and turn them into nutrient-rich mulch that can be used to nourish the lawn. If you have a mulching lawnmower, you can safely mow over small twigs without any worries.
Dry Sticks
Dry sticks are larger than small twigs, but they can still be mowed over if they are dry and brittle. Dry sticks are easier to break and can be mowed over without causing any damage to the lawnmower.
However, if the sticks are too thick, they may cause the lawnmower blade to become dull, which can reduce the effectiveness of the lawnmower.
Types of Sticks You Should Avoid
When mowing your lawn, it’s important to be aware of the types of sticks to avoid. While some sticks may be small enough to be safely mowed over, others can cause damage to your lawn mower and create safety hazards.
Large Branches
Large branches can cause serious damage to your lawn mower if they get caught in the blades. It’s best to remove any large branches from your lawn before mowing.
If you do come across a large branch while mowing, stop the mower and remove the branch before continuing.
Wet or Sappy Sticks
Wet or sappy sticks can be more difficult to mow over and can cause your lawn mower to become clogged. They can also leave sticky residue on your lawn mower blades, which can be difficult to clean.
It’s best to avoid mowing over wet or sappy sticks if possible. If you do need to mow over them, make sure your lawn mower blades are sharp and clean to minimize damage.
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