When Can I Mow My Lawn? The Ideal Time

Charles Cline

By Charles Cline

Last Updated on February, 2025

If you’re dedicated to maintaining your lawn, you know how important it is to keep your grass pristine for a lush, healthy turf 

Mowing is vital to lawn care but goes beyond merely cutting the grass. You have to know the right time to mow your lawn, too. 

This guide will cover the best time to mow your lawn and the importance of regular lawn mowing. We’ll even throw in some handy mowing tips. 

So, get out that lawn mower, and let’s mow your grass! 

Quick Summary

  • Mid-morning is ideal for mowing as it allows grass to dry and heal before evening, minimizing stress and disease risk. Early morning and late evening are the worst times due to wet grass, which can lead to tearing and vulnerability to diseases.
  • In Australia, spring and summer (September to February) are the best times to mow, as these months promote optimal grass growth. Timing differs slightly between southern and northern regions, with northern areas preferring late summer to early autumn.
  • Regular mowing promotes dense growth, reduces weeds and pests, strengthens root systems, recycles nutrients, and enhances curb appeal. Mowing correctly is essential for lawn health and appearance.

What is the Best Time of the Day to Mow My Lawn?

Mowing grass on a sunny day

The particular time you cut your grass is crucial as it is a key factor in your overall grass growth. 

Under each time of day, we’ll break down if you should or should not mow your lawn. 

Early Morning: Mowing early morning is the worst time to do it. The grass will likely be covered in morning dew, making it difficult for your mower to cut cleanly and effectively.

This can result in the grass being torn rather than neatly cut. Additionally, mowing wet grass makes them more susceptible to diseases and fungal infections. 

Mid-Morning: Mid-morning is the most optimal time to mow your lawn as grass needs to recover before evening. Mowing your lawn at this time allows the grass to dry and heal throughout the day, reducing the risk of damage or diseased grass. 

Midday: Mowing during midday is generally safe but not the best option due to the hot midday sun, which can stress the grass. It should be fine if you’re doing a routine cut and only trimming the top third of the grass.

However, if your lawn is overgrown or has longer grass and needs cutting more than a third, you risk exposing your grass to damage and burning. 

Afternoon: The afternoon is the second best time to mow if mid-morning isn’t possible. Early afternoon is cooler than midday and still allows enough time for the grass to recover before nightfall, minimising the risk of stressing or burning the lawn. 

Evening: Mowing during the late evening is as problematic as mowing early in the morning. As night approaches, dew settles again, making the grass wet and vulnerable to diseases and funguses. It’s best to avoid mowing in the evening to keep a lush lawn. 

In a nutshell, the weather plays a key role in when to mow your turf. It is best not to mow the lawn or do less mowing during hot weather, as warmer temperatures do more harm than good to your grass. 

Relevant guides:

What is the Best Time of the Year for Cutting Grass?

Cutting lawn in stripe shape using a lawn mower machine

As a general rule, the prime lawn mowing season is during the spring and summer months (September to February) when root growth is at its peak. This is when it is ideal to get your first grass cut. 

In southern regions of Australia, the first week of spring and early summer are the ideal time to start mowing your lawn. In northern areas, late summer and early autumn (March to April) are preferable due to the wet season. 

Regular mowing during the right season helps maintain a well-manicured turf. 

Importance of Regular Lawn Mowing

Mowing your lawn regularly is essential for keeping your grass healthy and attractive. Here are the key benefits: 

  • Promotes Dense Growth And Grass Height: Keeps at an optimal grass height, encouraging thicker, stronger growth. 
  • Reduces Weeds, Pests, And Diseases: A denser lawn is less prone to infestations and infections. 
  • Strengthens Root Systems: Regular cutting fosters stronger, deeper roots, improving drought resistance. 
  • Recycles Nutrients: Decomposing grass clippings return valuable nutrients to the soil. 
  • Enhanced Curb Appeal: A well-maintained lawn boosts curb appeal and property value. 

Tips for a Perfect Lawn

Person cleaning a lawn using a rake

Here are two essential tips to help you maintain a lush and healthy lawn: 

Sharpen Your Mower Blades

Keeping your blades sharp is crucial for the best cut. Dull blades tear the grass, causing jagged edges that can lead to brown tips and make your lawn more susceptible to disease. 

Sharpen your mower blades at least once a season or more frequently if you notice the grass looking torn or frayed after you mow. Sharp blades ensure a precise cut, promoting healthier grass and a more uniform appearance. 

Mulching

Instead of bagging leftover grass, leave them on the lawn to decompose. They are natural fertilisers, returning essential nutrients like nitrogen to the soil so you don’t have to rely on chemical fertilisers.

Mulching also helps retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering.

FAQs

Avoid mowing when grass is wet, during extreme heat, droughts, or in winter when growth slows; these conditions can damage both lawn and mower.

Mow weekly in spring and summer, and every two weeks in fall and winter to keep ideal height.

Mow before rain to avoid uneven cuts, mower clogs, and higher disease risk from wet grass.

Early morning or late afternoon, as these times are cooler when it is hot. 

Conclusion

In Australia, the optimal period to mow lawns is during the middle hours of the morning in spring and summer. That’s when you’ll achieve the best grass cut. 

If you’re too busy to do this task yourself, you can always hire professional help to get your grass mowed. 

Leave a Comment