For most lawns, the perfect point to start cutting is when the grass is actively growing but not yet too tall. Typically, this falls between late spring and early summer, when the weather warms up consistently. However, it can be tricky to pinpoint the exact date–it depends on temperature, moisture, and how fast the grass has started growing.
As a general rule, wait until the grass has reached about 3 to 4 inches in height before cutting it for the first time. If you start too soon, you risk damaging the tender shoots, which haven’t fully developed yet. Cutting them too early can stunt growth and set back the overall health of the grass.
If the weather’s been unusually cold or wet, you might need to hold off a bit longer. Grass grows more slowly when it’s cold, and mowing too early in these conditions can lead to uneven growth. On the flip side, if temperatures are consistently warm, cutting the grass too late might mean you’re dealing with thicker, tougher blades that are harder to manage.
It’s also worth considering local conditions. In Calgary, where weather can be unpredictable, it’s essential to watch for signs that growth is steady and stable. Waiting for a warm, dry period to begin might give the best results. For those who want to make sure they’re keeping their lawns in top shape, hiring professionals like PROPERTY WERKS can help keep the process on track, with experts who know the ideal conditions for each season.
How Early Spring Weather Affects the First Mow
Spring’s unpredictability can complicate decisions about the initial cut. If temperatures are still fluctuating–say, some warm days followed by chilly ones–grass growth may be slower than expected. It’s tempting to rush out and start trimming, but a premature trim could damage the grass or inhibit proper growth. Ideally, wait until the ground has thawed and dried out. Wet soil can easily become compacted under the weight of a mower, harming the turf beneath.
When spring arrives, it’s not just the air temperature that matters. Soil temperature plays a key role too. Grass typically starts growing when the ground reaches around 10°C (50°F). However, depending on how early the warm weather hits, this could vary. In Calgary, it’s common to see a false spring–those days where it feels like summer but it’s too early for a full growth spurt.
Another factor is the grass’s height. If it hasn’t had much time to grow or recover from winter, cutting too early might stunt its development. If the blades are still sparse, mowing can harm the overall health. Keep an eye on how thick the grass is before making a move; generally, you should wait until the grass is at least 2.5 to 3 inches tall. This ensures you’re cutting at the right time to encourage strong root systems and healthy blades.
Also, spring rains can make the task a bit tricky. Wet conditions often result in uneven cuts, leaving behind clumps of grass that can choke the growth of surrounding blades. This is another reason to hold off on mowing until there’s a few days of dry weather to let things settle in. Give it a few warm, dry days, and then you’ll be in a much better position to handle the first trim properly.
At PROPERTY WERKS, we often see clients who jump the gun too early. While the sun might be out, grass is still waking up. Patience during the early spring can make a big difference in how healthy your turf will look throughout the season. So, when in doubt, hold off just a little longer and wait for those steady, warm days to arrive. Trust me, your grass will thank you for it.
Why Morning Hours Are Ideal for Lawn Care
The cooler morning air is one of the key reasons why early hours work well for tending to your grass. During these times, the ground and grass are typically moist from dew, which can prevent dust from getting stirred up and reduce the stress on the blades of grass. Wet grass also helps your mower’s blades glide through more easily, leaving a cleaner cut that promotes faster recovery.
Moisture and Less Stress
Grass is more resilient when it’s cut early in the day, as the moisture helps protect it from damage. If you wait until later in the day, especially in the summer, the heat can cause the grass to dry out quickly, leaving it vulnerable to wear and tear. The direct sunlight can stress the grass, causing it to dry out, leaving unsightly brown patches. The morning dew provides a buffer, which is just one reason why early hours can help maintain a healthier, greener lawn.
Quieter and Cooler
Another benefit of starting early? The temperature is usually cooler, so you’re not working in the midday heat. This can make the whole process less exhausting. Also, fewer people are awake to hear the mower, which is a bonus for both you and your neighbors. You get the task done quietly, without disturbing anyone, and you avoid the hottest part of the day. It’s almost like a little peace of mind.
In Calgary, where the weather can change quickly, early mornings are often a more predictable window. By scheduling regular maintenance during this time, your lawn is likely to thrive better. So, if you’re aiming to keep things sharp, maybe set your alarm a bit earlier and make the most of those cool, quiet hours.
Timing Mowing to Prevent Grass Stress in Summer
Avoid cutting grass during the hottest part of the day, typically between 11 AM and 3 PM. At this time, grass is already stressed by the sun, and cutting it can cause further damage. The best option is early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and moisture levels are higher in the blades.
When the temperature rises above 25°C, it’s better to leave the grass a bit longer. This shade helps retain moisture, which is crucial during dry spells. Cutting too short exposes the roots to the sun and makes it harder for the grass to recover. Keep it around 2.5-3 inches to help it withstand the heat.
If the grass has been growing quickly after rain, it might look tempting to mow it right away, but resist that urge. Cutting it too often, especially under intense summer heat, can stress the plant. You’ll end up with patches that brown or don’t bounce back easily. Allow the grass a bit of time to recover between cuts.
Also, make sure the mower blades are sharp. Dull blades tear the grass, creating ragged edges that dry out faster and become vulnerable to disease. Sharp blades cut cleanly, giving the grass a better chance to heal quickly.
In Calgary, where the weather can be unpredictable, it’s important to adapt to the conditions. After a dry period, wait until there’s some moisture or cooler weather before cutting, so you don’t damage the roots further. With the right timing, you’ll keep your lawn healthy throughout the summer months.
Q&A:
When should I start mowing my lawn for the first time in the spring?
The best time to begin mowing your lawn in the spring is when the grass has started growing actively and is at least 3 inches tall. This typically happens when the temperatures have consistently reached above 50°F (10°C) during the day. Avoid mowing too early, as the grass may still be too weak and can get damaged easily. Waiting until the soil is dry also helps to prevent the grass from being torn up.
How often should I mow my lawn once the season starts?
Once your lawn is actively growing, mowing it once a week is usually ideal. This helps keep the grass healthy without letting it grow too tall, which can make it harder to maintain. During periods of rapid growth, such as in the spring or after heavy rain, you might need to mow more frequently. If the grass growth slows down in the heat of summer, you can reduce the mowing frequency.
Is it okay to mow my lawn during a hot, dry spell?
It’s generally best to avoid mowing when the grass is stressed due to drought. Mowing during a hot, dry period can weaken the grass and make it more susceptible to damage. If you must mow, make sure to adjust your mower to a higher setting so that you only trim the top third of the grass blades. This will help preserve moisture and shade the roots.
What is the right height to set my mower at?
The ideal mowing height varies by grass type, but for most lawns, you should aim to cut the grass to about 2.5 to 3 inches. This height encourages a healthy root system and reduces the risk of weed growth. For cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, the height should be slightly higher, while warm-season grasses like Bermuda can be cut a bit shorter. Avoid cutting more than a third of the grass blade at once, as this can stress the grass.
Can mowing too early in the spring harm my lawn?
Yes, mowing too early in the spring can harm your lawn. If you mow when the grass is still dormant or recovering from winter, it can cause stress to the grass. This might delay its full recovery and result in uneven growth. Wait until the grass has started actively growing and the soil is not overly wet. This gives your lawn the best chance to bounce back quickly after winter.
When is the best time to start mowing your lawn?
It’s best to begin mowing your lawn in the spring once the grass has grown enough to be cut, typically when it reaches about 3 to 4 inches in height. Early morning or late afternoon is the ideal time to mow, as it’s cooler, and the grass is not too wet from dew. It’s important to avoid mowing when the grass is soggy, as this can cause clumping and uneven cutting. Depending on your location and the type of grass, you might need to start mowing in late March or early April. For cool-season grasses, early spring is perfect, while warm-season grasses might require a later start. Keep an eye on the weather and grass growth to time it just right.
PROPERTY WERKS Contact Information:
Address
1017 1 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 0C9
Phone
403 239-1269
Hours of operation
Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tuesday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Wednesday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Thursday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sunday Closed
Online service – Open 24 Hours / 7 days