Gardeners have been warned to stop mowing their lawns at a specific time in autumn before winter sets in, as cutting grass too late in the year can cause lasting damage and leave lawns more susceptible to disease, pests, and winter damage.
Mowing the lawn is one of the most arduous jobs in the garden, but homeowners will be relieved to hear that the moment to put away the mower until next year is rapidly approaching. Understanding exactly when to stop cutting the lawn before winter arrives is essential, as the grass will stop growing and trimming it excessively short could harm its health.
Expert Warning on Late Cutting
James Ewens, a gardening expert from Green Feathers, has cautioned that continuing to cut grass at the wrong time will place it under significant stress, likely resulting in it being thinner when warmer weather returns.
Speaking to the Express, James said: "While it's not a hard and fast rule, if gardeners cut their grass too late in the year - after it has gone dormant - then they risk damaging the blades and roots, making the lawn more susceptible to diseases, pests, and winter damage. Effectively, one cut too late could undo all the hard work you've done over the past spring and summer!"
How to Know When to Stop
Grass also stores essential nutrients in its roots during winter, so cutting it after dormancy begins will deplete those reserves and reduce its ability to photosynthesise. Consequently, grass may look brittle or yellowed when spring arrives, needing substantial work before it regains its lush, green colour.
The best time to stop mowing is when average temperatures in your locality fall below 10°C, as the diminished daylight hours will significantly reduce grass growth.
James explained: "To determine when to stop mowing your lawn for the season, look for signs like slowed growth, changes in leaf colour on nearby trees, and a consistent height of blades, while paying close attention to weather patterns."
"If frost is in the forecast, your grass will need a few weeks to strengthen its roots and prepare for winter dormancy."
Regional Differences in Mowing Times
Gardeners across the country will need to stop lawn mowing at different times owing to climatic differences, as those in coastal regions may enjoy milder winters than their inland counterparts.
James noted: "The goal should be to give your lawn one last cut before it goes dormant - which is impacted by the factors mentioned above along with the type of grass - but after it has stopped growing significantly."
"By timing your last cut of the year perfectly, your lawn can enter the winter season with a healthy and lush appearance and a strong root system, laying the foundations for healthy growth and a quick recovery in spring."
When to stop grass cutting before winter, depending on your location:
- London - Late October
- Bristol - Late October
- Manchester - Late October to early November
- Birmingham - Late October to early November
- Leeds - Late October to early November
- Liverpool - Late October to early November
- Newcastle - Late October to early November
- Glasgow - Late October to early November
- Edinburgh - Late October to early November
- Dublin - Late October to early November
- Cardiff - Late October
