When Does Lawn Grass Stop Growing

When Does Lawn Grass Stop Growing?

Lawn grass doesn’t grow consistently all year round. In the UK, grass growth follows a seasonal rhythm that responds directly to temperature, daylight and soil conditions. As the colder months set in, the rate of growth slows gradually until it stops almost entirely. Knowing when lawn grass stops growing helps you time the final mow, adjust feeding and prepare the lawn properly for winter.

The Role of Soil Temperature

Grass growth is driven by soil temperature, not air temperature. Most UK lawn grasses stop growing when soil temperatures fall below around 5 to 6 degrees Celsius. This usually occurs in late October or early November, although the exact timing varies depending on location, elevation and the weather each year.

Even if the weather feels mild, growth can still stall if the ground is cold and damp. Conversely, an unseasonably warm winter might prompt some light growth, though it’s usually too inconsistent for regular mowing.

Dormancy Through Winter

Once soil temperatures drop, grass enters a dormant phase. This is not the same as dying grass remains alive, but growth above ground stops while the plant conserves energy in its root system. During this period, the lawn may look duller in colour, and patchy areas may appear more obvious, but this is normal.

Heavy use of the lawn during dormancy, especially in wet or frosty conditions, can damage the turf. Roots are more fragile, and the grass cannot recover until growth resumes in spring. Minimising traffic, clearing debris and allowing proper air circulation help maintain lawn health through this slower phase.

When Growth Starts Again

Grass typically begins growing again in early to mid-March once soil temperatures climb back above the growth threshold and daylight hours increase. The first signs are subtleslightly longer blades, thicker patches, and a gradual change in colour from pale green to a richer tone. The first mow of the season should always be light and gentle, using a high blade setting to avoid scalping.

In some milder parts of the UK, such as the south and southwest, you might see occasional growth even in winter. In those cases, it’s safe to give the lawn a light trim as long as the ground is dry and frost-free. However, regular mowing is rarely needed before mid-March.

Feeding and Care Before Dormancy

Late autumn is the best time to prepare your lawn for the dormant season. A low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertiliser applied in September or October helps strengthen roots without encouraging excessive blade growth. This builds resilience and ensures the grass has enough stored energy to survive winter and bounce back in spring.

Moss and weeds may become more visible during the colder months, but it’s better to wait until spring to deal with them, when the grass is actively growing and better able to compete.

Daylight Is Just as Important as Temperature

Grass relies on light and warmth together to grow. Even if the soil temperature is marginally above six degrees, short daylight hours in winter drastically slow photosynthesis. That’s why you’ll often see a lawn holding its length without growing noticeably even during a mild January—there simply isn’t enough daylight energy to support new growth.

Moisture Can Create Confusion

In autumn and early winter, lawns often look like they’re growing, but what you’re seeing may be lifting, softening, or curling due to wet conditions, not active growth. Some people mistake this for overgrowth and mow unnecessarily. If the grass height hasn’t changed in over a week and feels spongey rather than upright, it’s likely dormant or static due to saturation.

South-Facing Lawns May Grow Longer

Lawns in sunny, south-facing spots or those sheltered from cold winds tend to hold warmth better and may continue growing for a few extra weeks into late autumn. Likewise, urban areas with mild microclimates can experience delayed dormancy compared to open or exposed sites. Understanding your lawn's local microclimate helps you make more precise care decisions.

Grass Doesn’t All Stop at Once

Some parts of your lawn may stop growing sooner than others, especially shaded areas or spots with heavy clay soil that hold the cold. Meanwhile, areas near buildings, under windows, or along paved edges might stay warmer longer. It’s common for lawns to become visibly uneven during this transitional period, which resolves as growth resumes evenly in spring.

Frost Can Trigger Instant Dormancy

If temperatures drop suddenly and frost sets in overnight, even a healthy, slow-growing lawn can enter immediate dormancy. Frost stiffens blades and halts cellular activity, making any mowing or feeding risky. One frost is usually enough to signal the end of the mowing season for most UK gardens.

It’s Better to Stop Mowing a Week Too Early Than a Week Too Late

Continuing to mow when growth has stopped can stress the lawn, especially if the soil is soft or the blades are wet or brittle from the cold. The final cut of the year should be done just before growth stops, using a slightly higher setting than usual to avoid scalping or damaging the turf. If in doubt, leave the grass a little longer to protect it through winter.

Final Word

In most parts of the UK, lawn grass stops growing between late October and early November when soil temperatures drop below six degrees. Growth remains dormant through winter and resumes in spring as the ground warms. By understanding this seasonal cycle, you can time your mowing, feeding and renovation work more effectivelyand keep your lawn strong year after year.