One thing to bear in mind is that exposing the soil to the sun also exposes weed seeds to the sun. If you get enough rain that the seeds sprout, there will be no shade to prevent them from taking root. You might scalp part of the lawn and leave part unmowed. Then write back in July to tell us what happened.

fourstringdrums, I suppose I could go a little lower for the winter, but honestly I don't really want to. Considering that you live in Massachusetts snow is a given, so you can mow lower for the winter, gradually down to maybe 2-1/2". (It is a good idea to go a little lower for the winter when snow is an issue). At this height a rider should mulch the leaves better than where you are now. I have a rider so sharpening the blade isn't a personal option for me as I can't get to it. I was going to call the store I bought it from though and have them clean under the deck anyway. I haven't been able to do it as a result. You definitely want to get your blade sharpened! At least once per year. I do understand that you cannot do it yourself, so yes, check with the place you bought from, or a mower shop. I haven't measured it, but at the second to highest height I'm at maybe 3.3". I think my top height is 3.8". I would recommend that when you get a chance you should measure the height of each setting on you mower and write them down.

Thanks everyone for the advice. Our bee delivery was actually delayed. The driver got lost & didn't have our phone # with him. We should get them this week. We have a spot prepared for them now, & I'm relieved after reading your responses. We have a couple of bee keeping books ordered, & they should arrive this week also. We usually research & prepare a little better for our endeavors, but he caught us off guard by having some for us this soon. We were expecting them next spring. Wish us luck & thanks for the help. Carla

Thanks lou and skoot. Skoot, Ok i will wait till my grass comes out of dormancy, but can you please tell me why i have to wait? becuase i thought if we spray seaweed or molasses now it should start preparing the soil for the growing season. May be i am confused. can you please explain? Also a newbie question. Is seaweed better or molasses, whats the difference can i use both at the same time or should i wait for few days before i use the other? Sorry for asking so many questions. Again thanks for the help Shank