Chances are good that you use a lawnmower and a weed wacker to maintain your lawn. But have you ever thought about using a traditional scythe, like people used to before lawnmowers were invented?
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Using a scythe to clear out an overgrown lawn can be very effective, mainly because it can get very close to the foundations of steps, fences, garden beds, and anything else that may get in the way.
This video by Justin Rhodes discusses how and why you can use a scythe to mow your lawn. Below is a summary of the main points in the video.
There are many reasons to consider using a scythe over a lawnmower. It’s significantly quieter than a lawnmower, and it can easily cut thick grass that would clog up a lawnmower. As noted, the scythe can also reach grass in areas that a lawnmower can't.
Ideally, you will use a scythe to mow your lawn when the grass is wet, whether it be from a light drizzle or from the morning dew. While not necessary, it does make cutting easier. This is because the moisture will lubricate the blade, and the grass will be softer and therefore easier to cut.
With a lawnmower, on the other hand, you want to wait until the grass is dry. That means you'll be out mowing the lawn when it's hot. But with a scythe, you can start early in the morning when it's still relatively cool outside.
When choosing a scythe, consider using a shorter blade rather than a longer blade. Shorter blades are more maneuverable and lack the resistance and weight of longer blades. This will make them easier to use, even if it will cut through less grass with each stroke.
Use light and gentle strokes, and keep the heel of the scythe down with the toe facing upward. Move the entire blade in a continuous arc, keeping the belly of the blade around a quarter to half an inch up above the ground.
Finally, don’t expect your finished lawn to look quite as neat as it would if you had used lawnmower. What matters more is that the grass will be cut. And furthermore, the grass should appear neater the more times you use it.
For more tips and ideas from a scythe-using expert, watch the video below.
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