Specifications include, but are not limited to: 1. Preparation: Prior to mowing, all debris shall be removed from turf areas, including but not limited to paper, cans, bottles, leaves, trimmings, sticks and limbs. 2. Mowing: All turf areas shall be mowed and edged weekly during growing season and bi-weekly during the off-season to ensure that the grass blade reaches a height no more than one-third greater than the routine mowing height, or a minimum of 44 times per year as follows: a) Once per week during the growing season (March through November) = 38 times b) Once every two weeks, during dormant season (late November through early March) = 6 times c) Note: Mowing times may be adjusted due to weather conditions. d) All mowing shall be performed with rotary-type mowers with mulching blades, alternating directions each time so as to leave the lawn areas with a crisscross pattern and to avoid establishing mower ruts. Line trimmers shall not be used to cut the grass horizontally, except in areas that mowers cannot reach. Should seasonal conditions create a longer growing season than 38 weeks, Contractor shall provide pricing for a weekly visit. This additional work will be billed separate from the Contract. 3. Trimming: All trimming shall be performed with nylon line trimmers or mechanical hand tools. Line trimmers may be used around poles, manholes, fire hydrants, power boxes, granite fence copings and other appurtenances. Use of line trimmers is permitted, providing operator uses a low speed setting and extreme caution not to damage bark or scalp grass. Contractor shall handtrim around mature trees if bark damage occurs from line trimmer use. Metal-blade edgers shall not be used on this project. Trim line spacing at curbs, sidewalks, steps, lamp posts, fence lines, monument bases and irrigation system boxes shall be consistent throughout with minimal space between curbs and grass.
