When it comes to lawn care, timing is everything. While mowing your lawn at the right time can keep it looking healthy and pristine, mowing at the wrong time can do more harm than good. A poorly timed mowing session can stress your grass, damage your mower, and even leave your lawn vulnerable to diseases.
Experts agree that there are some times you should absolutely avoid mowing, especially when your grass is wet. Not only does it make for an uneven cut, but it can also cause lasting damage to your lawn and equipment. Understanding when to mow and when to wait can make all the difference in achieving that picture-perfect lawn. Here’s everything you need to know about the best and worst times to mow your lawn, along with expert tips for keeping your grass in tip-top shape.
What is the worst time of day to mow your lawn?
“The worst time of day to mow your lawn is whenever it is wet,” says Steve Corcoran, CEO of Lawn Love. This often means mowing during the late evening or early morning.
“You want to avoid mowing after it has rained, after your sprinklers have been on, and even when there is just some morning dew out there,” Corcoran continues. “Your lawn should be completely dry.”
Mowing wet grass leads to uneven cuts and can damage your equipment. “If it isn’t dry, that can damage both your lawn and your mower,” Corcoran says. Wet grass blades don’t cut as easily, so they can tear, making them more susceptible to diseases. Additionally, wet grass can clog your mower, causing mechanical issues. “When wet grass blades get in your mower, that can cause blockages and damage the blades or even the engine,” he adds.
What is the best time of day to mow your lawn?
The best time to mow your lawn is early in the morning, when the grass is dry but before the day’s heat kicks in. Experts recommend mowing between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., when the dew has dried but the grass hasn’t been stressed by the sun. This allows your lawn to absorb water from early morning dew or sprinklers without suffering from heat stress.
If you miss that window, the next best option is in the late afternoon, between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., when temperatures have cooled down, but there’s still enough daylight to get the job done.
What are some tips for mowing a lawn?
For a healthy, vibrant lawn, keep these mowing tips in mind:
- Choose the right mower: Match your mower to your lawn type for optimal performance.
- Don’t cut too short: Avoid scalping your grass. Keeping your grass slightly longer can help it retain moisture and stay healthy.
- Mow regularly: Consistent mowing helps keep your grass healthy and dense, reducing weed growth.
- Sharpen your mower blades: Dull blades tear the grass, making it more vulnerable to disease. Keep them sharp for clean cuts.
By following these expert tips and timing your mowing right, you'll ensure your lawn stays healthy, beautiful, and well-maintained.
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.
