when should you mow new grass

3 min read 15-04-2025

Mowing your new lawn for the first time is a big decision. Mow too soon, and you risk damaging tender new growth. Wait too long, and you'll end up with a wild, unruly mess. This guide will help you determine the perfect time to mow your new grass and maintain a healthy, thriving lawn.

Understanding the Importance of the First Cut

That first mow is crucial for establishing a strong, even lawn. It sets the tone for future growth and helps prevent weed infestations. Getting it right means a beautiful lawn for years to come. A poorly timed first cut, however, can hinder growth and even kill your new grass.

Factors Determining the First Mow

Several factors influence when you should mow your new grass. These include:

Type of grass: Different grasses have different growth rates and mowing requirements. Cool-season grasses (like fescue and ryegrass) often require more frequent mowing than warm-season grasses (like Bermuda and Zoysia).
Growth rate: This depends on the weather. Hot, sunny conditions will lead to rapid growth, requiring more frequent mowing. Conversely, cooler, wetter conditions lead to slower growth.
Desired height: How short do you want your grass? Your target height will determine how often you'll need to mow. Generally, you shouldn't remove more than one-third of the grass blade's height in a single mowing.

How High Should You Set Your Mower?

The height of your mower's cut is just as important as the timing of the first cut. Generally, it's best to start higher than you might think. Aim for approximately 3-4 inches for most lawn types. This helps the roots establish themselves deeply and prevents stress from the sun.

When to Mow New Grass: A Step-by-Step Guide

Wait until the grass is established: This usually takes 4-6 weeks, depending on the grass type, weather conditions, and soil quality. Your grass should have a healthy root system before its first cut. Look for dense, even growth.
Check the height: Your grass should be at least 3-4 inches tall before you begin mowing. Again, this helps minimize stress and promotes stronger growth.
Sharpen your mower blade: A sharp blade creates a clean cut, preventing ragged edges that can lead to disease. Dull blades tear the grass, causing stress and making it more susceptible to damage.
Make the first cut high: Set your mower blades relatively high for that initial mowing, removing no more than one-third of the grass blade.
Mow in different directions each time: This prevents ruts and encourages upright growth. Alternate the direction of your mowing pattern (north-south, then east-west) each time.

Maintaining Your New Lawn After the First Cut

After the initial cut, continue to follow these best practices for a healthy and vibrant lawn:

Regular mowing: Mow your lawn regularly, removing no more than one-third of the grass height at a time.
Water deeply and infrequently: Encourage deep root growth by watering deeply but less often.
Fertilize appropriately: A balanced fertilizer will help your grass grow strong and healthy. Follow package directions carefully.
Deal with weeds promptly: Remove weeds by hand or use a selective herbicide, if needed.

What to Avoid When Mowing New Grass

Mowing too soon: This can damage the delicate new growth and stress the roots.
Scalping: Removing too much grass at once will weaken the plants and make them susceptible to diseases.
Using a dull blade: This will tear the grass blades, creating ragged edges and increasing the risk of disease.

By following these guidelines, you'll ensure your new grass thrives. Remember, patience is key. A little care in the beginning will reward you with a healthy, beautiful lawn for years to come. Remember to adjust your mowing schedule based on your grass type and local weather conditions. Happy mowing!