As we move more deeply into the lawn-mowing season, I can’t help but cringe when I watch landscapers and homeowners attack their patches of green.

First, most of us cut our lawns too short. And then we water at the wrong times. If we could manage to correct these two lawn-maintenance flaws, we’d have healthier lawns, and we'd take a step toward being "greener" because we'd use smaller amounts of fertilizer and chemicals.

Let’s start with mowing height. While mowing height largely depends on the type of grass you have, it’s safe to say you should consider two heights. In the spring and wetter seasons, the most common of turfgrasses — specifically bluegrass, rye and fescue — should be cut at about 2 to 2.5 inches high. Later in the summer, starting at about the end of June, or when the season is hotter and drier, those grasses should be cut to heights of 2.5 to 3 inches.

The taller lawns do a better job of resisting crabgrass and weeds, so you won’t have to spread chemicals to control unwanted intruders. Also, because the lawn is healthier, it is better able to resist insects, too.

Generally, higher mowing heights over the summer means cooler soil temperatures. This keeps more moisture in the soil and promotes healthier lawn growth.

As you mow to taller heights, remember the one-third rule. Try to cut away only a third of the height of the lawn in one cutting. If you are trimming the lawn to 2.5 inches and your mower takes an inch off each cutting, then make sure the lawn grows to 3.5 inches before you mow.

As for watering, your best bet is applying water to zones early in the morning, just before the sun hits the sky. This will allow the soil to absorb the water; moisture left on the blades will then evaporate. Night watering can allow soil absorption, but it does not allow for moisture on the surface to evaporate. This moisture can cause lawn diseases, especially in bluegrass.

How much water does a lawn need? I see sprinklers running daily (or nightly) all across Long Island , where I live. If we have a cool, wet spring, it’s better to water once a week with the area getting at least one full inch of water. Bluegrass , rye and fescue might need double that, 2 inches, and during hotter weather, it’s more like 2 to 2.5 inches per week.

You might try developing a watering pattern. For example, try programming your sprinkler system to water every other day for as long as it takes to distribute a half-inch of water to a zone. To measure, set the time and put a couple of empty tuna cans in the zone. When watering of the zone is complete, measure the water in the cans.

Some zones near concrete and asphalt driveways and walkways might need more water, but you can determine that. You might try watering a little more often in these zones to eliminate dry patches.

One other factor in growing a healthier lawn is the condition of the soil. You should test the soil for pH and make sure it is aerated at least once a year, preferably in the spring. On Long Island, a pH reading of between 6.3 and 6.8 (slightly acidic) is good for growing lawns. Soils with pH readings of 7.0 or above are higher in alkalinity. Soil-test kits are available at home and garden centers for about $10.

As for eliminating weeds and crabgrass, try growing the lawn taller before dumping on chemicals for control. You might find proper mowing and watering will help with control of these invaders. Later this summer, try pulling weeds and unwanted grasses by hand before treating the lawn with chemicals. If that doesn’t work, try spot-treating with a pump sprayer. Why treat the entire lawn when only a few patches have crabgrass or weeds?

In the long run, mowing taller and watering more wisely means a healthier lawn.

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