When to do your first lawn mow of the year
Temperamental British weather can leave many unsure of when to plan in their first lawn cut post Winter. Whether it’s the lack sunshine, navigating rainy days, being caught out by frosty mornings or even being blind sided by snow, turbulent weather in the lead up to Spring makes it almost impossible to find an ideal time to begin lawncare in the UK.
Luckily, we’ve been able to pinpoint the exact date you should get the mower out and tackle those neglected gardens.
So, what date is best?
It’s firstly important to understand that grass won’t actually grow until temperatures generally start to rise above 7° Celsius (C) and without much growth, there isn’t a need to cut. Additionally, when temperatures do start to rise, you’ll still need the optimum weather conditions required to carry out the task without risk of causing damage to the lawn or equipment being used.
Doing the hard work for you, our experts have analysed Met Office weather history data from 2024, finding that March 5th looks the ideal time to mow lawns for the first time this year, with temperatures expected to stay above 7° Celsius (C) consistently throughout Spring and into Summer.
Why holding out makes a difference
We’d still recommend monitoring local forecasts before committing to the cut date, as we know how quickly the weather can change, but the beginning of March is likely the best time to make a start on the lawn.
Whilst Britain has previously been no stranger to an ice blast or two in Spring, some April showers or even a little snowfall, holding out a little longer will only help to eliminate the risk of harsher elements getting in the way of your gardening plans.
Why can cutting too early pose risks?
As we’re still set to battle Wintery weather throughout February, conditions like rain, frost, and strong winds remain unsuitable for lawn mowing, as they can damage both gardens and tools.
Wet weather
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.
Frost or freezing temperatures
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.
Strong winds
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.
SUMMARY: If you’re struggling to predict the best time to cut your grass for the first time post Winter, use our date, March 5th, as a guide to get going. Remember to check local forecasts and even chat with neighbours to find an ideal time for you and your garden.
For more lawn care advice, keep up to date on our new Grassroots Hub!