Spring Lawn Mowing

As winter fades and spring arrives, your lawn begins to wake up from dormancy. Proper mowing practices in the spring set the foundation for a healthy, green lawn throughout the growing season. Here’s everything you need to know about spring lawn mowing to ensure your grass thrives.

1. Start with a Lawn Inspection

Before you fire up the mower, take a walk around your yard. Look for debris, such as fallen branches and leaves, that accumulated over the winter. Remove any thatch buildup and check for bare patches, which may need reseeding. Inspect your lawnmower to ensure the blades are sharp and the engine is in good working condition.

2. Wait for the Right Time

Patience is key when it comes to the first mow of the season. Wait until your grass reaches at least 3-4 inches in height before cutting. Mowing too early can stress the grass and hinder its growth. Additionally, ensure the soil isn’t too wet, as mowing on soggy ground can cause soil compaction and damage grass roots.

3. Set Your Mower Blades High

For the first few cuts of the season, set your mower blades to a higher setting. Cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time can weaken the lawn and lead to weed infestation. A height of 3-4 inches encourages deeper root growth, helping your lawn withstand heat and drought later in the year.

4. Follow the One-Third Rule

A common mistake homeowners make is cutting their grass too short. Adhering to the one-third rule—never removing more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mow—keeps your lawn healthy and prevents stress.

5. Keep Your Mower Blades Sharp

Dull mower blades tear the grass rather than cutting it cleanly. This results in jagged edges that turn brown and invite disease. Sharpen your mower blades at the start of the season and check their sharpness regularly.

6. Vary Your Mowing Pattern

Avoid mowing in the same direction every time. Changing your mowing pattern prevents soil compaction and ensures grass grows upright rather than leaning in one direction.

7. Leave the Clippings

Grass clippings act as a natural fertilizer by returning essential nutrients to the soil. Unless the clippings are excessively long or clumped together, leave them on the lawn to decompose naturally.

8. Mow Regularly as Growth Increases

Spring’s mild temperatures and increased rainfall can lead to rapid grass growth. Be prepared to mow more frequently—typically once a week—to maintain an optimal lawn height and prevent overgrowth.

9. Water Wisely

Mowing and watering go hand in hand. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root development. The best time to water is early in the morning, allowing moisture to soak into the soil before the heat of the day.

10. Address Weeds Early

Spring is the perfect time to get ahead of weeds. Mowing at the right height helps prevent weeds from taking over, but consider using pre-emergent herbicides or spot-treating problem areas to keep your lawn weed-free.

By following these spring mowing tips, you’ll set the stage for a lush, green lawn that thrives all season long. A little early-season care goes a long way in achieving a beautiful yard that enhances your home’s curb appeal. Happy mowing!