Gardeners have been warned that mowing lawns at a specific time of day can lead to clumpy, unhealthy grass, according to gardening expert Michael Griffiths. In a recent TikTok video, Griffiths highlighted that mowing early in the morning, particularly between 6am and 8am, is a common mistake that damages both the appearance and health of lawns.
Why Early Morning Mowing Is Harmful
Griffiths explained that dew on the grass during early morning hours makes the mower work harder and creates clumps of wet grass. "Wet grass makes your mower work hard and will create clumps of wet grass," he said. He advised that if mowing is necessary during this time, gardeners should first do a pass on a higher setting before lowering the blade.
The issue is not just cosmetic. Garden equipment manufacturer Ego Power Plus confirmed that mowing before 10am is the worst time, as wet grass can block the mower and cause it to work inefficiently. The company listed several problems caused by mowing wet grass, including fungal diseases such as Anthracnose, tearing of grass that leaves lawns patchy and open to infection, ruts and compacted soil, uneven grass length, and reduced cutting effectiveness.
Additional Mowing Mistakes to Avoid
In his video, Griffiths also pointed out other common mowing errors. These include mowing in the same direction every time, which can cause soil compaction and ruts, and removing too much grass in one cut, which weakens growth. He recommended following the one-third rule: never cut more than one-third of the grass height at a time. Changing mowing direction each time and avoiding wet grass can lead to a thicker, greener, healthier lawn over the season.
Expert Recommendations for Optimal Mowing
Ego Power Plus advised that the best time to mow is mid-morning, after 10am, when the grass has had sufficient time to dry out. This reduces the risk of clumping, fungal diseases, and damage to the mower. The company warned that mowing wet grass can also rip or yank grass from the roots, resulting in brown spots.
By following these tips, gardeners can ensure their lawns remain healthy and attractive throughout the summer, avoiding the pitfalls of improper mowing timing and technique.
