When and How to Mow Your Lawn for Maximum Growth This Season
It’s springtime in Minnesota and that means it’s time to shift gears into lawn care mode! One of the most important lawn care tasks is mowing your lawn correctly – but timing, height, and technique all matter more than you might think. Northern Roots Lawn Care believes that a great lawn starts with smart mowing habits. Whether you’re a DIY homeowner or looking to hire professionals (like us!), here’s how to mow your way to a greener, healthier yard this spring.
When Should You Start Mowing in the Spring?
The ideal time to begin mowing in most Minnesota yards is late April to early May. You want to wait until your grass starts actively growing, but don’t let it get too tall before making your first cut.
Pro Tip: If the ground is still soft or soggy, hold off—mowing too early can cause ruts or compact the soil.
What’s the Best Mowing Height?
Aim to keep your grass between 3 and 4 inches tall throughout the growing season. This slightly taller height is crucial for a few reasons:
- Shades the soil, which helps prevent weed growth
- Retains moisture, reducing the need for extra watering
- Encourages deeper root development, leading to a more resilient lawn
Pro Tip: While shorter grass might look tidy, it can leave your yard vulnerable to heat, drought, and pests.
How Often Should You Mow?
You may be surprised to know that there’s no fixed schedule! Mow as often as needed, depending on how quickly your grass grows.
Pro Tip: Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. Cutting too much at once stresses the plant, weakens your turf, and can result in yellow or patchy spots.
Bonus Mowing Tips for a Better Lawn
- Keep mower blades sharp to avoid tearing grass blades
- Change mowing patterns each time to prevent ruts and encourage upright growth
- Leave grass clippings if possible—mulching returns nutrients back to the soil
Don’t Have Time to Mow? Northern Roots Can Help!
Perfecting your mowing schedule and technique takes time, equipment, and consistency. If you’re too busy or just want a professional touch, Northern Roots Lawn Care offers weekly mowing services! With every mow, we follow the guidelines above and get rid of any stray lawn debris that lingers on hard surfaces.
Let’s Grow a Better Lawn Together
Spring is the start of your lawn’s growing season—and proper mowing sets the tone for the months ahead. Whether you’re going DIY or looking for expert help, Northern Roots Lawn Care has the local knowledge and tools to help your yard thrive. Contact us today for spring lawn mowing services or to get a custom lawn care plan started!
One last Pro Tip: If someone you know could use our services, don’t forget about our referral program!