Spring is when your lawn begins to wake up from its winter nap and starts growing again. For lawn care enthusiasts, this is the time to start giving your grass the attention it needs. Figuring out when to start mowing again can set the stage for a lush, healthy lawn all year long. But timing is everything because mowing too early can actually shock the grass and make it susceptible to damage. By knowing when to cut grass in spring, you’ll encourage strong growth and get a head start on the vibrant, green lawn you’ve been working toward.
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What Month Should You Start Mowing Your Grass?
Before you fire up the mower, you need to consider what kind of grass you have. Different grass types follow different growing patterns, so knowing your grass type will help you determine the right month to start cutting grass and how much to trim.
Cool-Season Grasses
Cool-season grasses (Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass) begin growing as soil temperatures reach 50°F to 65°F, which typically happens in early spring. In northern states like Minnesota or Michigan, this growth usually starts in late March to early April. In central states like Kansas or Missouri, spring often begins earlier, around mid-to-late February.
Once your grass is about 3 to 4 inches tall, you can begin mowing.
Warm-Season Grasses
Warm-season grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine) start growing when soil temperatures consistently reach 65°F, which often happens later in spring. For example, in states like Georgia or Texas, you may see growth start in late March. In transition zones like Tennessee or Virginia, it could be as late as April or May.
Wait until your warm-season varieties are at least 2 inches tall for that first spring mow.
How Often Should You Cut Your Grass in Spring?
Once your grass starts growing actively, it’s time for the first mow of the season. Your mowing schedule depends on how fast your grass grows. Warm-season grasses may grow faster as the weather heats up, so you might need to cut the grass more often.
Aim to mow about once a week. If you have cool-season grass, keep it to 2.5 inches. For warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia, cut them back to 1-1.5 inches. St. Augustine grass prefers a little more height – keep it between 2.5 and 4 inches for best results.
No matter the type of grass, cutting off more than one-third of the blade at once can cause unnecessary stress and leave your lawn vulnerable to diseases, especially in spring when temperatures fluctuate. So, pay attention to changes in growth, rainfall, and temperature to find the right mowing schedule.
Easy Spring Lawn Care Tips
While knowing when to mow grass in spring and timing your first cut gets you started, going the extra mile with proper maintenance and good habits will help your yard truly stand out.
- Maintain Your Mower: Sharpen blades for a clean cut. Dull blades can tear the grass, leaving it vulnerable to pests, disease, and stress.
- Change Mowing Patterns: Switch up the direction you mow each time to prevent ruts and compacting the soil. This helps the grass grow more evenly and can keep your lawn healthier.
- Mulch Clippings: Leave grass clippings on the lawn to help fertilize it.
- Watch Your Water: Your lawn should get about one inch of water per week, including rainfall. This keeps the grass hydrated without overwatering, which can lead to shallow roots and disease.
For even more expert tips and tricks to take your lawn care to the next level, check out The Lawn Bible – your comprehensive guide to achieving a lush, green lawn year-round.
Healthy Grass Begins With Smart Spring Cutting
Achieving a healthy lawn isn’t just about knowing when to cut grass in spring – it’s about sticking with a long-term care routine. With careful timing, proper mowing techniques, and a bit of extra TLC, your yard can become the kind of welcoming outdoor space you’ll be proud to share with family, friends, and even curious neighbors who wonder just how you got your lawn to look so good.