What is a sign of mower injury to turfgrass?

Shredded blades with uneven cuts are a clear sign of mower injury to turfgrass. This occurs when the mower blades are dull, improperly adjusted, or when the mower is operating at an inappropriate height for the type of grass being cut. Instead of providing a clean cut, the dull blades tear the grass, resulting in a jagged appearance. This type of injury can lead to stress on the turf, making it more susceptible to diseases, pests, and environmental stressors, ultimately affecting the overall health and vigor of the grass.

Other signs that may look similar, such as irregular patches of yellow turf, can stem from various causes, including nutrient deficiencies or disease, but do not specifically indicate mower injury. The presence of molehills is unrelated to mowing practices and pertains more to pest activity in the soil, while spilled fertilizer does not indicate any injury from mowing but could lead to stress if too much fertilizer is applied inappropriately.