Winter Lawn Care: To Cut Or Not To Cut?
As the new year begins, we often feel inspired to give our homes and gardens a refresh. However, when it comes to lawn care, timing is everything. Whilst you might be eager to get the lawnmower out, cutting your grass in Winter can cause more harm than good. Let’s find out why it’s best to wait and what you can do instead to set your lawn up for success in Spring.
Why Should You Avoid Mowing in Winter?
With the ‘new year, new start’ mentality, it’s tempting to tidy neglected gardens right away. But Winter grass is often damp and cutting it now can lead to problems that might take months to fix.
First, wet grass doesn’t cut cleanly. Instead, it tears, leaving jagged edges that make your lawn more prone to pests and disease. Clumped clippings can also suffocate healthy grass, causing patches and an uneven surface. Your lawnmower doesn’t fare much better—damp grass dulls the blades faster and adds strain to the motor.
So, what’s the best approach? We always recommend waiting for dry conditions to mow. You’ll protect your lawn and keep your equipment in peak condition, making for a better mowing experience when Spring arrives.
What Winter Tasks Will Help Your Lawn Thrive?
Even though mowing is off the table for now, there are plenty of Winter-friendly ways to begin preparing your lawns and the essential tools needed for healthy, green grass this year:
Aerating for Better Drainage
Waterlogged lawns are a common winter woe, but aerating helps improve drainage and loosen compacted soil. This simple task can make a world of difference when it comes to lawn health.
Grab a garden fork and push it into the lawn’s surface as far as it will go, repeating across the entire area. It takes just a few minutes and helps your grass breathe better, ensuring stronger roots come spring.
Prepping the Lawnmower for Spring
Winter is the perfect time to show your lawnmower some love. A well-maintained mower makes all the difference when it’s time to tackle your first cut of the season.
One key tip? Keep the blade sharp. A dull blade tears the grass, leaving ragged edges that invite disease. Try and make a point to replace the blade every season or after about 25 hours of use. If you notice nicks or uneven cutting, it’s a clear sign it’s time for a new blade.
SUMMARY: Taking care of your lawn in Winter isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing the right things at the right time. Skip a Winter mow, focus on aeration, and get your mower in tip-top shape. Come spring, you’ll be rewarded with a lush, healthy lawn.
For more lawn care advice, keep up to date on our new Grassroots Hub and if you’re looking to upgrade your gardening equipment before the weather turns, explore our Lawn + Garden Products.