Have you ever looked out at your yard after a rain shower and wondered: can you mow wet grass? While the answer is technically yes, mowing wet grass isn’t recommended. Mowing wet grass can lead to a range of issues, from damaging your lawnmower to leaving your grass looking messy and uneven. Let’s dive into why mowing wet grass isn’t recommended, when it might be okay, and the best practices if you decide to go for it.
Why Mowing Wet Grass is Not Ideal
So, should you mow wet grass? Not if you can avoid it. Wet grass blades are heavier and tend to bend rather than break, which makes it difficult for the mower to cut them cleanly. This often leads to uneven cuts and can make your lawn look patchy. Plus, wet grass clippings can clump together, clogging your mower and even causing damage to the blades. There’s also the risk of slipping or losing control of the mower on slick ground, which can be dangerous, especially on sloped areas.
Another downside is that cutting wet grass can harm your lawn's health. Wet blades of grass are more vulnerable to tearing, which stresses the grass and leaves it susceptible to diseases, fungus, and pests. Expert tips recommend mowing under dry conditions to keep your grass healthier and less prone to these issues.
When You Might Need to Mow Wet Grass
Despite the drawbacks, there might be times when mowing wet grass is unavoidable. Maybe you’re working against a tight schedule, or you have several days of rain in the forecast with no break. In such cases, if you must mow wet grass, there are ways to minimize the potential damage. The key is to mow cautiously, taking it slow and adjusting your mowing habits to accommodate the moisture.
Best Practices and Tips for Safely Mowing Wet Grass
If you decide to mow wet grass, following a few key tips can help you do it safely and effectively.
First, make sure your mower blades are sharp; dull blades can tear the wet grass rather than cutting it cleanly, making your lawn less aesthetically pleasing and more vulnerable to disease.
Next, try raising your mower’s cutting height slightly. This adjustment reduces strain on the grass and minimizes clumping, which is common when mowing damp grass.
Consider mowing in sections as the grass dries, focusing on areas that dry faster first, like those with direct sunlight. Should waiting for the sun not be an option, using a rake or leaf blower can help dry the grass faster.
Mow slowly, as wet grass can make maneuvering tricky, and going slowly helps you maintain control and avoid slipping. If you have the option, use a side-discharge mower instead of a mulching mower. This will help prevent clippings from clumping up and clogging the machine.
Finally, after mowing, thoroughly clean your mower to remove any wet grass clippings that could harden or cause rust.
Alternatives to Mowing Wet Grass
If your grass has grown excessively long and waiting for ideal mowing conditions isn’t an option, you can still make your lawn look presentable if you have practiced using these manual options.
- Trim only the top third of the grass or use a string trimmer or weed whacker.
- Tidy up edges with scissors or shears keeps your lawn looking maintained without a full mow.
- Use a sickle or scythe and avoid clogging your mower.
When to Call a Lawn Care Professional
If you’re dealing with ongoing wet conditions or find mowing wet grass too challenging, it might be a good time to call in a lawn care professional. Your local Lawn Pride® team has the equipment and experience to understand the less-than-ideal conditions, ensuring your grass is cut efficiently and safely. We can also provide guidance on maintaining your lawn’s health during rainy seasons or in areas where moisture is a regular challenge.
Each visit from the Lawn Pride team is backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise™. Instead of worrying about why you can’t mow wet grass, just schedule a visit from our lawn professionals and free up time to focus on what matters most.
This article is intended for general guidance only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property and your situation. LawnPride® is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of any advice or guidance derived from blog content. For the most accurate guidance, contact an independently owned and operated LawnPride® for more information and a professional on-site assessment.