Can You Cut the Lawn in Winter

Can You Cut Lawn in Winter?

Mowing the lawn is often associated with spring and summer, but in some winters, particularly milder onesyou may notice the grass continuing to grow, raising the question of whether it should be cut. While mowing in winter isn't usually part of a standard lawn care routine, there are times when it may be appropriate. However, mowing during the colder months needs to be approached with caution to avoid causing more harm than good.

Grass Growth in Winter

Grass growth slows down significantly when soil temperatures fall below 5 to 6°C, which usually happens between late autumn and early spring in the UK. Once temperatures drop, the lawn effectively enters a dormant phase. That said, during milder winters or in sheltered areas, some grass growth can continueparticularly if the weather remains damp and above average in temperature.

If your lawn appears to be growing and the grass height becomes uneven or untidy, a light trim may be beneficial. But the decision to mow should be based on ground conditions and temperature, not just appearance.

When It's Safe to Mow in Winter

You should only mow in winter if three key conditions are met: the ground is firm, the grass is dry, and the temperature is mild. If the soil is frozen, frosted or waterlogged, mowing can damage the turf, compact the soil, and tear the grass. Likewise, cutting wet grass increases the risk of disease, uneven cutting, and mower damage.

Choose a dry, mild day when no frost is expected overnight, and only cut if the grass length truly needs managing. The cut should be minimal, just enough to neaten the surface.

Use a High Cut and Sharp Blades

If you do mow in winter, raise your mower blades to the highest setting. The aim is not to reduce height, but to tidy up the lawn without placing stress on already fragile grass. Sharp blades are essential to avoid fraying or bruising the grass tips, which can be slow to recover in cold weather.

Avoid leaving mower tracks or turning sharply on damp turf, as the lawn will take longer to bounce back from any physical damage during the dormant period.

Don’t Mow if Frost Is Forecast

One of the biggest mistakes is mowing during or just before a frost. Cold-stressed grass is brittle and can be easily damaged, leaving the lawn vulnerable to disease, patchiness or die-back. Always check the forecast, if frost is predicted overnight, delay mowing until a warmer window.

If your lawn remains frosty, frozen or saturated for several weeks, it’s better to leave it undisturbed until spring.

Final Word

Yes, you can cut your lawn in winterbut only if the conditions are right. A high, light cut on a dry, mild day can help keep the lawn tidy without harm. But if the ground is frozen, wet or frosty, it’s better to wait. Patience during winter mowing pays off in the spring, when your grass will be in a better position to grow back strong, thick and green.