When to Stop Cutting Grass Before Winter to Avoid Lasting Damage

Knowing when to stop mowing your lawn before winter sets in is crucial – cut too late after the grass goes dormant, and you risk lasting damage to blades, roots and its spring recovery.

For many homeowners, mowing the lawn is one of the most demanding garden chores, so it will come as welcome news that the time to pack away the mower until next spring is drawing near. Knowing exactly when to stop cutting the grass before winter arrives is essential, as once growth ceases, trimming it too short could seriously damage its condition.

The Risks of Cutting Too Late

James Ewens, a gardening expert from Green Feathers, has cautioned that continuing to cut grass at the wrong time will put it under significant stress, potentially leaving it sparse when the 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!"

Grass also stores essential nutrients in its roots over winter, so cutting it after it goes dormant depletes those reserves and weakens its ability to photosynthesise. As a result, it may look parched or yellow in spring and need considerable care before returning to a lush, green appearance.

How to Know When to Stop

The best time to put away the mower is when temperatures in your region fall below 10°C, as shorter daylight hours will significantly hinder 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 Schedules

Gardeners across the country will need to stop lawn maintenance at varying times owing to climatic differences, with those in coastal regions potentially enjoying milder winters than their inland neighbours.

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: