Let me tell you, I’ve been mowing lawns since I was old enough to reach the throttle on the mower.
Over the years, I’ve heard all sorts of myths and opinions about whether you should mow wet or dry grass.
So, what’s the truth? Is it better to mow your grass wet or dry?.
Well, I’m here to give you the real answer, but first, let me tell you a personal story.
One time, I was in a hurry to finish mowing my lawn before a big barbecue.
The grass was a bit dewy, but I thought I could handle it.
I revved up my mower and started going to town, but before I knew it, I had slid right into a patch of mud.
I was covered in dirt and grass, and I didn’t make it to the barbecue on time.
Needless to say, I learned my lesson about mowing wet grass the hard way.
So, what’s the verdict?.
It is ALWAYS better to mow your grass when it’s dry.
Why? Well, let me break it down for you.
The Case for Dry Grass Mowing
When you mow dry grass, the blades of your mower can cut the grass cleanly and evenly.
This is because the grass blades are stiff and upright when they’re dry, making them easier to cut.
This results in a neater cut and a better-looking lawn.
Dry grass is also less likely to clump up under your mower or cause your blades to become clogged.
When grass is wet, it sticks together, making it harder for your mower to cut it cleanly.
Wet grass can also cause your mower to slip or skid, which can be dangerous.
The Case for Wet Grass Mowing
Okay, so maybe there’s not much of a case for mowing wet grass.
But in some situations, you might not have a choice.
For example, if it’s been raining for days on end and your grass is getting out of control, you might need to mow it even if it’s wet.
In these situations, there are a few things you can do to make mowing wet grass a bit easier.
First, make sure your mower blades are sharp.
Dull blades will only make matters worse.
Second, adjust the height of your mower deck so that it’s a bit higher than you would normally mow.
This will help prevent your mower from getting clogged up with wet grass.
Now, let me tell you about my experience with mowing wet grass.
One time, I had put off mowing my lawn for far too long, and when I finally got around to it, it had been raining for days.
I decided to go ahead and mow it anyway, and let me tell you, it was a disaster.
My mower kept getting clogged with wet grass, and I had to stop and clear it out every few minutes.
It took me twice as long as it normally would, and my lawn looked terrible when I was done.
So, take it from me, mowing wet grass is never a good idea.
Wet vs Dry Grass Mowing Chart
| Aspect | Wet Grass Mowing | Dry Grass Mowing |
|---|---|---|
| Grass Blades | Bend over and stick together | Stiff and upright, easier to cut |
| Cut Quality | Uneven and messy | Clean and even |
| Mower Performance | Slippery, can cause clogs and skids | Cuts efficiently, less likely to clog |
| Time Efficiency | Takes longer due to clogs and inefficiencies | Faster and more efficient |
| Mower Maintenance | Can cause more wear and tear on the mower | Less wear and tear on the mower |
| Grass Health | Can damage grass, spread disease | Less stressful on grass, promotes healthy growth |
| Safety | Slippery and potentially dangerous | Less risky, safer for the operator |
| Grass Appearance | Looks messy and uneven | Looks neat and even |
| Environmental Impact | Can cause soil compaction and erosion | Less harmful to the environment |
| Other Considerations | May need to mow if grass is too long or overgrown | Best to mow during mid-morning to early afternoon |
FAQs
Q: Can you mow wet grass with an electric mower?
A: It’s generally not a good idea to mow wet grass with any type of mower. Wet grass can cause electrical hazards, and it’s more difficult for the blades to cut through the grass cleanly.
If you absolutely must mow wet grass with an electric mower, make sure to wear appropriate safety gear and use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to prevent electrical shock.
Q: Is it okay to mow the lawn in the middle of the day when it’s hot outside?
A: It’s not recommended to mow the lawn during the hottest part of the day, as the sun can cause the grass to wilt and the heat can be dangerous for you.
The best time of day to cut grass is mid-morning to early afternoon when the grass is dry and the sun isn’t at its highest point yet.
Q: How often should I mow my lawn?
A: The frequency of mowing depends on several factors, including the type of grass you have and how fast it grows. Generally, it’s best to mow your lawn once a week during the growing season to maintain a healthy and well-manicured lawn.
In conclusion, the best time to mow your lawn is when the grass is dry, and it’s best to avoid mowing wet grass if possible.
Always make sure your mower blades are sharp and adjust the height of your mower deck accordingly. With these tips, you can keep your lawn looking great all season long.