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As the days grow longer and the first signs of spring emerge, one of the most satisfying gardening rituals is the first lawn cut after winter. That first snip of grass is more than just aesthetics — it sets the tone for a healthy, lush lawn throughout the season. However, getting it right requires a bit of strategy. Cut too early or too short, and you risk damaging your grass; wait too long, and it can become tough to manage. Here’s everything you need to know to make your lawn flourish this spring.
Why the First Cut Matters
Winter can be harsh on lawns. Frost, fallen leaves, and dormant grass can leave your lawn looking patchy and untidy. The first cut serves several purposes:
- Removes dead grass and debris accumulated over winter.
- Stimulates healthy growth as the grass wakes from dormancy.
- Prevents disease by increasing airflow and reducing damp patches.
- Sets the mowing pattern for the rest of the season.
A thoughtful first cut helps ensure your lawn grows evenly, looks lush, and resists weeds and moss.
When to Make the First Cut
Timing is key. Cut too early and the grass may still be dormant; too late, and it can grow too long and stress your mower.
Signs it’s time to cut:
- Grass is consistently green and growing (usually around 6–8 cm in length).
- Soil is dry enough to walk on without leaving footprints.
- Frost is no longer present overnight.
In the UK, this usually falls in March or April, depending on your region and weather. Northern areas may need to wait until late April or even early May, while southern gardens may be ready earlier.
How to Prepare for the First Cut
Before firing up your mower, prepare your lawn for success:
- Clear debris
- Remove sticks, leaves, and any fallen branches to avoid damaging your mower and the grass.
- Rake the lawn lightly
- This removes thatch (dead grass) and moss, allowing the mower to cut evenly and encouraging airflow to the roots.
- Check your mower
- Sharpen the blades. Dull blades tear grass rather than cut it cleanly, leaving brown tips and stress marks.
- Adjust the mower height to its highest setting — early spring grass is tender and cutting too short can shock it.
How to Cut the Grass
- Set height high: Aim to cut only the top one-third of the grass blades. This helps prevent shock and keeps roots strong.
- Use a slow, steady pace: Avoid rushing. A careful cut protects young shoots.
- Overlap slightly: Ensures an even appearance.
After this initial cut, you can gradually lower the mower height in subsequent weeks as the grass strengthens.
Aftercare Tips
Once your lawn has had its first cut:
- Feed the lawn: Use a spring fertilizer to boost growth and root development.
- Water if needed: Spring showers often suffice, but during dry spells, light watering helps recovery.
- Treat problem areas: Moss patches or weeds can be treated now while the lawn is still recovering.
- Regular mowing: Once weekly mowing keeps grass healthy and prevents it from growing too long.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cutting too short too early — this weakens grass and exposes it to disease.
- Mowing wet or frosty grass — can damage blades and create clumps.
- Ignoring mower maintenance — a dull mower makes the lawn look brown and stressed.
The first lawn cut of the season is a small but important ritual that primes your garden for months of lush growth. With proper timing, preparation, and care, it can kickstart a vibrant, green lawn while keeping weeds and disease at bay. Think of it as giving your lawn a fresh start — and the satisfaction of that first swipe of mower across a waking spring lawn is truly one of gardening’s simple pleasures.
