Simplicity ZT4000 Series - Manual (Page 25)

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Operation
The amount of grass you are able to cut in one pass is
also effected by the type of mowing system you are using
(for example, broadcasting with side discharge decks can
process a much larger volume of grass than mulching
does).
Tall Grass Requires Incremental Cutting
For extremely tall grass, set the cutting height at maximum
for the first pass, and then reset it to the desired height and
mow a second or third time.
Don’t cover the grass surface with a heavy layer of
clippings. Consider using a grass collection system and
starting a compost pile.
When and How Often to Mow
The time of day and condition of the grass greatly affect the
results you’ll get when mowing. For the best results, follow
these guidelines:
1. Mow when the grass is between three and five inches
high.
2. Mow with sharp blades. Short clippings of grass one
inch or shorter decompose more quickly than longer
blades. Sharp mower blades cut grass cleanly and
efficiently, preventing frayed edges which harm the
grass.
3. Mow at time of day when the grass is cool and dry.
Late afternoon or early evening often provide these ideal
mowing conditions.
4. Avoid mowing after rain or even heavy dew, and never
mulch when the grass is wet (moist grass does not
mulch well, and clumps beneath the mower deck).
Mowing Patterns
Always start mowing on a smooth, level area.
The size and type of area to be mowed will determine the
best mowing pattern to use. Obstructions such as trees,
fences and buildings, and conditions such as slopes and
grades must also be considered.
1. Cut long straight strips overlapping slightly.
2. Where possible, change patterns occasionally to
eliminate matting, graining or a corrugated appearance.
3. For a truly professional cut, mow across the lawn in one
direction, then recut the lawn by mowing perpendicular
to the previous cut.
Note: Always operate the engine at full throttle when
mowing.
If you hear the engine slowing down, you are mowing
too fast—using a slower ground speed will improve the
cutting efficiency of the blades and prevents many common
cutting problems. Use an appropriate ground speed for the
thickness and height of the grass you are cutting (3rd gear
or slower for manual gear models). If you hear the engine
slowing down you are mowing too fast, use a slower ground
speed.
Mowing Methods
Proper Broadcast Mowing
Broadcasting, or side-discharging, disperses fine clippings
evenly over the entire lawn. Many golf courses use this
method. Your mower has a deep dish deck to allow freer
circulation of clippings so they are broadcast evenly over the
lawn.
Engine Speed & Ground Speed for Broadcasting
Always operate the engine at full throttle when mowing. If
you hear the engine slowing down, you are mowing too
fast—using a slower ground speed will improve the cutting
efficiency of the blades and prevents many common cutting
problems.
ALWAYS use an appropriate ground speed for the thickness
and height of the grass you are cutting (3rd gear or slower
for manual gear models). If you hear the engine slowing
down you are mowing too fast, use a slower ground speed.
How Much Grass to Cut Off When Broadcasting
Mow when the grass is 3-5 inches long. Do not cut the
grass shorter than 2 to 2-1/2 inches. Do not cut off more
that 1 inch of grass in a single pass
Where possible, make one or two passes around the outside
of the area discharging the grass INTO the lawn to keep the
cut grass off fences and walks.
The remainder of the mowing should be done in the
opposite direction so that the clippings are dispersed OUT
onto the area of lawn previously cut.