why should you not cut grass when it's wet

2 min read 16-04-2025

why should you not cut grass when it's wet

Meta Description: Discover why mowing wet grass is bad for your lawn and equipment. Learn the risks of clogging, scalping, and disease, and find out when the best time to mow is for a healthy, lush lawn. Avoid costly repairs and achieve that perfect cut by following our expert tips!

The Perils of Wet Grass Cutting

Mowing your lawn seems simple enough, but there's a crucial factor many overlook: the moisture content of the grass. Cutting wet grass is a recipe for disaster, leading to several problems for both your lawn and your mower. Let's explore why you should always wait for dry conditions before firing up your lawnmower.

Damage to Your Lawn Mower

Wet grass clippings clump together easily. This creates a thick, sticky mass that readily clogs your mower's blades and discharge chute. This leads to:

Clogged mower deck: A clogged deck forces your mower to work harder, potentially damaging the engine or causing it to overheat.
Dulled blades: Wet grass is abrasive. It dulls your blades faster than dry grass, reducing the quality of your cut and requiring more frequent sharpening or even replacement.
Increased maintenance: Regular cleaning of a wet-grass-clogged mower is a tedious and time-consuming task.

Scalping and Uneven Cuts

Wet grass blades are more flexible and prone to bending. When your mower blades encounter this resistance, they are more likely to:

Scalp your lawn: This means cutting the grass too short, damaging the crowns of the grass plants. This weakens the lawn, leaving it vulnerable to diseases and weeds.
Create an uneven cut: The inconsistent height of the cut makes your lawn look patchy and unprofessional.

Health Risks for Your Lawn

Beyond the mechanical issues, mowing wet grass can negatively impact the health of your lawn.

Disease spread: Wet conditions create a perfect environment for fungal diseases and other pathogens to thrive. Mowing wet grass spreads these diseases throughout the lawn.
Increased thatch: Wet grass clippings decompose slower, leading to the buildup of thatch—a layer of dead organic matter that can smother your lawn and prevent proper water and nutrient absorption.
Soil compaction: Driving a mower over wet soil compacts the ground, hindering root growth and aeration.

When is the Best Time to Mow?

The ideal time to mow is when the grass is dry. This typically means:

Mowing in the morning: The dew usually dries by mid-morning, offering a good window of opportunity.
Avoiding midday heat: Mowing during the hottest part of the day can stress the grass.
Checking the forecast: Avoid mowing if rain is expected within a few hours.

Tip: If you must mow slightly damp grass, consider raising the cutting height to reduce the chance of scalping.

Maintaining Your Mower for Optimal Performance

Regular maintenance, regardless of grass conditions, is essential for your lawnmower's lifespan.

Sharpen your blades: This ensures a clean cut and prevents damage to your grass.
Clean your mower: Remove all grass clippings after each use to prevent clogs and build-up.
Change the oil and spark plug: This maintains engine performance and longevity.

Conclusion: Patience Pays Off

While the urge to maintain a perfectly manicured lawn is strong, remember that cutting wet grass is counterproductive. The potential damage to your equipment and the negative consequences for your lawn far outweigh any perceived convenience. By waiting for dry conditions, you ensure a healthier lawn, a longer-lasting mower, and a more satisfying mowing experience. So, put down the mower until the grass is dry—your lawn will thank you for it!