Peaks in Expert Opinions Suggest Now's Not the Optimal Moment for Lawn Mowing
Revamped Guide to Mowing Your Lawn: The Definitive Do's and Don'ts
Love it or loathe it, mowing the lawn is a summertime task many homeowners face. But did you know when you decide to mow can impact your grass's health and longevity? In this guide, we'll cover the best and worst times to mow your lawn, further ensuring your lawn stays vibrant and thriving. Let's get started!
Nope, mowing at the crack of dawn isn't always the best choice. In fact, experts across the board agree that early morning is one of the worst times to grab your mower. Why? Wet grass. If it's still damp from dew or a recent rain, cutting the grass can clog your mower, dull the blades, and spread diseases more easily[1][2]. Save the morning for sipping coffee and gazing at your blooming flowers instead.
Yet, it's also not ideal to power through your mowing during the sweltering heat of the day. Shockingly, mowing at midday can add additional stress to the grass, making it more susceptible to diseases and slower growth[1][3]. So, even though it may seem like you're ticking items off your to-do list quickly, you're actually harming your lawn in the long run.
Still, we get it—staring down a hot summer day, who wants to be outside? Well, neither does your grass, which is why late afternoon is the sweet spot for mowing. The grass should have had a chance to dry out by then, providing a clean cut, and you're not exposing fresh cut blades to the strongest heat of the day[4]. And let's face it, we'd all rather avoid mowing under the punishing summer sun!
But be cautious, mowing late isn't always a win. If you wait too long, the cut blades may not have the chance to recover before nighttime moisture sets in, leading to fungal problems[2]. So, aim to finish up before the sun begins to set.
Now you might be wondering, "When exactly is the best time to mow my lawn?" Excellent question! The answers vary slightly depending on who you ask, but experts tend to agree that late morning, around 10 a.m. to noon, and mid to late afternoon, between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., are the ideal times to protect your grass and ensure a well-manicured lawn[5].
To make the most of your lawn-tending efforts, keep these mowing tips in mind:
- Adapt with the Seasons: Your lawn's mowing needs will change throughout the year, so adjust your mowing schedule accordingly[6].
- Hold Off on New Grass: If you're working with new grass seed or sod, don't mow it until the new growth reaches the same height as the rest of your lawn.
- Maintain Your Watering System: Trim the grass around your watering system, ensuring the spray pattern is not obstructed[4].
- Stick to a Mowing Schedule: A consistent mowing schedule is key, even if it means mowing at less than ideal times of day[6]. Just be sure not to wait too long between mowings to minimize effort when dealing with taller, thicker grass.
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to having a lawn that sets the neighborhood en envy while competing for the title of least-stressed homeowner!
Sources:[1] https://www.yardzen.com/blog/lawn-care-tips/[2] https://www.landscapecoach.co.uk/blog/when-should-you-mow-your-lawn-guide/[3] https://extension.umd.edu/hgicc/services/publications/when-mow-your-lawn[4] https://www.thespruce.com/best-time-to-mow-your-lawn-1386876[5] https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/yard-work/when-is-the-best-time-of-day-to-mow-your-lawn[6]https://www.thespruce.com/lawn-mowing-schedule-2655395
- For a balanced lifestyle and vibrant garden, Martha Stewart suggests mowing your lawn in the late morning or mid to late afternoon to ensure a well-manicured lawn that sets the neighborhood envy.
- Landscaping connoisseurs from Home-and-Garden suggest maintaining a consistent mowing schedule, including mowing at less than ideal times of day and trimming the grass around watering systems to ensure proper functioning.
- To achieve the title of least-stressed homeowner, follow gardening experts' advice and adapt your mowing schedule with the seasons, hold off on mowing new grass until it reaches the same height as the rest of your lawn, and keep your watering system unobstructed for optimal lawn care.
