Garden experts are advising UK homeowners to resist the urge to mow their lawns too early, warning that cutting wet grass can cause damage and pose safety risks. The advice comes as the UK braces for more rain, making conditions less than ideal for lawn care.
According to Gazeboshop, mowing a wet lawn can result in an uneven cut because moisture weighs down some blades, causing them to be missed by the mower. Additionally, wet grass can clog the mower, leading to overheating and potentially costly repairs. Experts recommend waiting until the lawn is at least 95% dry, which typically takes two to five hours after a light shower. A simple test is to walk across the lawn in flip-flops; if your feet feel damp, postpone mowing.
Timing is also crucial. Mowing early in the morning can expose grass to disease and fungal infections, and it may disturb neighbours. The optimal time is mid-morning, between 8am and 10am. Furthermore, mowing should be avoided when temperatures consistently drop below 10°C, as grass enters a dormant stage and stops growing.
Once conditions are suitable, experts recommend mowing once a week, increasing to every four days in May. This promotes healthy growth and improves air circulation. However, grass should never be cut below 4cm in height, as shorter grass is more vulnerable to drought, weeds, and moss.
Another key maintenance task is scarifying, which removes thatch and moss that inhibit airflow. After mowing, use a flexible spring tine rake or a mechanical scarifier for larger lawns. This process helps revive the lawn after winter storms and encourages robust growth.
