Whether you’re a professional landscaper, property manager, or public works employee, roadside mowing is an essential but challenging task on your to-do list. Keeping the roadsides neat helps enhance the area’s aesthetic appeal, and it’s also a great way to make it safer by clearing the drivers’ sightlines as they travel. However, it’s easy for this mowing project to feel daunting, especially when you have complex terrain to go over or are in charge of an extensive stretch of road. The good news is we have six great ideas to help simplify the mowing process and make the job feel less intimidating.
1. Invest in Proper Equipment
One of the best things you can do is to invest in the right equipment. You’ll want to use a heavy-duty mower capable of going over rough terrain and tough vegetation for roadside maintenance. Pick a mower that fits your needs, considering the type of vegetation you’ll encounter, the area’s size, and the general terrain. Getting a mower with a high cutting width and advanced features like an adjustable cutting height can save you effort and time.
2. Set Up a Regular Mowing Schedule
Establishing a routine schedule can help simplify this project. By consistently mowing the area, you can prevent vegetation from taking over and growing wild, making your project much more time-consuming. Also, mowing the area regularly helps promote healthier grass growth and weed control.
3. Learn the Local Vegetation
Learning about the local vegetation can make you much more effective when you mow. Different plants have different growth speeds and growing needs, so you may have to mow more frequently to keep up with them, while others may do well with less interference. Make a point to familiarize yourself with the local grasses and plants that grow along the road to figure out your mowing strategy.
4. Use GPS for Bigger Areas
If assigned to manage a huge area, GPS technology can make your mowing process easier. GPS mapping can help you plot your mowing routes, saving you fuel and time. Also, GPS can help you keep track of any areas you have already mowed, helping to ensure you don’t miss any spots while reducing overlap.
5. Schedule Routine Equipment Maintenance
Regularly maintaining your mowing equipment ensures it stays in peak condition and reduces the chances of it breaking down. Keep all the blades sharp so they cut efficiently, keep your engines serviced, and check for wear and tear. Having well-maintained equipment helps keep the mowing process more efficient.
6. Use Sustainable Practices
Finally, sustainable mowing practices can make your job easier while benefitting the local environment. For example, leave the clippings on the ground to work as a natural fertilizer that encourages healthier vegetation while reducing cleanup. Also, consider local flowering plants and wildlife when you mow because they’re important for the area’s biodiversity.
When you first start roadside mowing, the road may seem challenging and lengthy. But with the right strategies, tools, equipment, and mindset, you can get an enjoyable and smooth ride. After all, it’s not just about cutting the grass; it’s about cutting the complexities. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be ready to tackle any roadside mowing challenge that pops up.
