Maintaining a pristine lawn is a point of pride for many homeowners. From perfectly manicured edges to lush, green grass, every detail counts. But what about the less glamorous aspect of lawn care – picking up dog poop? It’s a question that often arises, especially when it’s time to mow. Should you take the time to scoop before firing up the lawnmower? Let’s delve into this topic with a pragmatic perspective.
Should you mow over poop
Firstly, let’s address the obvious: mowing over dog poop is not ideal. It’s messy, it can smear across your lawn, and it’s certainly not a pleasant experience for anyone walking on it afterward. But does that mean you have to comb through your entire yard before each mow? Not necessarily.
One argument for picking up dog poop before mowing is cleanliness. It’s simply more hygienic to have a poop-free lawn, especially if you or your family spends a lot of time outside. Dog feces can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can pose health risks, particularly if they come into contact with skin or are inadvertently ingested.
Moreover, mowing over dog poop can spread it around, making it harder to clean up later. This can result in a messy, uneven lawn and can even damage your lawnmower if the poop gets caught in the blades.
However, there are some instances where it may not be practical or necessary to pick up every single poop before mowing. If your yard is large or if you have multiple dogs, the task can be daunting. In these cases, using common sense and discretion is most important.
If the poop is visible pick it up
If the poop is fresh and easily visible, it’s best to pick it up before mowing. This prevents it from being spread around and ensures a cleaner cut. But if the poop is older and has already been broken down somewhat, mowing over it may not be as problematic.
It’s worth noting that some lawnmowers have mulching capabilities that can help break down organic matter like dog poop. However, relying solely on this method isn’t foolproof, and it’s still preferable to remove any visible poop before mowing.
Another factor to consider is the type of grass you have. Some grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass or Bermuda grass, are more resilient and can tolerate occasional mowing over small amounts of dog poop. However, more delicate grasses, such as fescue or ryegrass, may suffer more damage.
In conclusion, while it’s generally advisable to pick up dog poop before mowing your lawn, there may be times when it’s not practical or necessary to do so. Use your judgment based on the size of your yard, the number of dogs you have, and the condition of the poop. Ultimately, a clean and healthy lawn is the goal, so do what’s best for your particular situation. And remember, a little extra effort in poop patrol now can save you from a messy situation later!