Google searches for 'when to stop cutting the grass' have surged by 40% this week, experts said, as Britons look to pack away their gardening tools ahead of the colder months. However, experts are now suggesting that homeowners could find themselves mowing their lawns well into the festive period.
To help households maintain a healthier, greener lawn throughout the year, specialists at home improvement brand BLACK+DECKER have examined temperature data from the past three years to pinpoint the ideal date for the final cut this year — and the results may come as quite a surprise.
Final cut predicted for December 31
According to the Royal Horticultural Society, grass ceases to grow in temperatures below 7C, which means that, based on current temperature data, experts anticipate the last mow of 2026 will fall on the final day of the year, December 31. From that point onwards, temperatures are expected to remain consistently below 7C, although experts have cautioned homeowners about the potential pitfalls of mowing during winter.
Nick Ee, product training manager at BLACK+DECKER, said: "While there are several factors that determine when you should stop mowing your lawn for winter, our research suggests that Brits could still be cutting their grass as late as December this year, which may be much later than homeowners expect."
Mowing conditions to watch
"Grass can continue to grow while temperatures remain mild, so there isn't necessarily a need to put the lawnmower away at the first sign of colder weather. However, as we move further into winter, it's important to pay close attention to your local forecast and the condition of your lawn before mowing," he added.
"Even if temperatures are still high enough for grass to grow, avoid mowing when the ground is waterlogged or the grass is wet or frosty. Cutting in unsuitable winter conditions can damage the grass when it's already under additional seasonal stress, while excess moisture and debris can also clog your mower and affect its performance."
How wet weather affects grass
Nick explained: "Wet grass clumps together, leading to an uneven cut and clogs in the lawnmower. It can also tear rather than cut cleanly, making grass vulnerable to disease."
"In terms of damage to equipment, moisture can cause rust on mower blades and clog the deck, reducing its overall performance and lifespan."
How frost or freezing temperatures affect grass
Nick noted: "Mowing frosty or frozen grass can shatter the blades, turning them brown and increasing stress. This weakens the grass and makes it more prone to disease. Cold temperatures can also make mower parts brittle, and ice buildup on moving parts can cause mechanical issues."
Nick remarked: "Wind, although not too detrimental to lawn health or likely to damage the mower, can dry out freshly cut grass and cause it to spread clippings unevenly, making cleanup harder."
