Caring for your lawn requires good timing, especially during colder months. Knowing what temperature is too cold to mow grass helps protect your lawn from damage so it can stay healthy year-round.
When Is It Too Cold To Cut Grass?
If the temperature drops below 40°F, it’s time to park the mower. Grass growth slows significantly in colder weather, and mowing under these conditions can stress your lawn. Waiting for warmer, drier conditions gives your lawn the best chance to thrive.
Risks of Mowing in Cold Weather
Mowing your lawn when it’s too cold can lead to several issues that harm its health and appearance.
Brittle Grass Blades
Grass blades become brittle in low temperatures, making them more likely to break when mowed. Cutting grass in cold weather can leave your lawn looking ragged and uneven while also putting unnecessary stress on the grass. A stressed lawn has a much harder time recovering in the spring.
Stressed Roots
Cold temperatures naturally slow down grass growth because the roots go dormant to conserve energy. Mowing when the temperature is below 40°F can damage the grass, as it won’t have the strength to recover quickly. The added stress weakens the root system, making the lawn more susceptible to pests, diseases, and even bald patches.
Compacted Soil
Using a mower on frosty or frozen soil can compact it, which restricts root growth and makes it harder for the grass to absorb water, air, and nutrients. To protect your lawn, always wait until the grass is dry and the soil has thawed before mowing.
What’s the Best Time of Day To Mow in the Cold?
Late morning is typically the best time to mow when it’s cold out. By then, the frost has usually melted, and the grass has had time to dry.
If it’s still too cold by early afternoon, or your grass is still wet or frosty, don’t force it – hold off on mowing to avoid causing damage. Waiting until the temps are above 40°F and the grass is completely dry ensures a clean cut and helps keep your lawn healthy.
How To Safely Mow Your Lawn in Cooler Temperatures
When mowing in cooler weather, make these adjustments to protect your lawn.
Adjust Your Mowing Height
Raise the cutting height on your mower to leave the grass blades about ½ to 1 inch taller than your regular mowing height. The slightly longer blades will capture more sunlight during shorter days and provide better insulation for the roots against cold temperatures.
Keep Your Mower Blades Sharp
Sharp blades are a must when grass is more vulnerable. They make clean cuts, reducing the chance of jagged edges that can lead to disease.
Monitor Grass Growth
Grass grows slower in the cold, so you’ll likely need to mow less frequently in the fall (and not at all in the winter). Keep an eye on how quickly your lawn is growing and adjust your mowing schedule based on growth rather than sticking to a routine.
Smart Lawn Care for When the Temperature Is Too Cold to Mow
Taking care of your grass in colder weather doesn’t have to be complicated – it’s all about timing and a little extra care. By knowing when it is too cold to mow the lawn and making simple adjustments, like mowing later in the morning and raising the cutting height, you can keep your lawn healthy and strong all year. If you skip the mower when it’s too cold and focus on proper maintenance, we promise that your grass will bounce back beautifully come spring.