Cool-Season Lawn Calendar: Mowing & Fertilizing in Ohio

Mowing

Unlike Bermuda (scalped low), Kentucky bluegrass and fescue thrive at 2.5–3.5 inches all season. Raise 1 inch in peak summer heat. Start mowing when growth begins (early–mid April); continue until November.

Fertilizing

• Late spring (Memorial Day)
• Early fall (Labor Day)
• Late fall (after top growth stops, between Halloween–Thanksgiving)

No early spring or summer nitrogen. This schedule builds root reserves for a healthier, more resilient lawn.