The Greener Guide to Mowing Matters & More – The Initial Spring Cut

As the snow melts and the first signs of life begin to sprout in your yard, it’s time to wake your lawn from its winter slumber with the initial spring mow. This crucial first cut sets the tone for the growing season and primes your lawn for healthy, thick growth in the months ahead. Let’s explore the timing, height, and care tips for the perfect first mow of the year.

The key to a successful first mow lies in timing. You’ll want to wait until the grass starts growing steadily, typically when the soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F and you’ve seen a few days of temperatures in the 60s. In the Midwest, this usually means late April or early May, depending on the year’s weather patterns.  You don’t want to mow too early, as cutting dormant grass too soon can cause stress and weaken it for the growing season. Be patient.

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One of the key tips for maintaining a healthy lawn is to avoid mowing when the grass is wet. Waiting for the grass to dry will help ensure a healthier, more resilient lawn throughout the season. If the lawn is wet – just wait! Mowing a soggy lawn can lead to several issues:

• Soil Compaction: Wet soil is more prone to compacting under the weight of your mower, which limits airflow and water absorption, hindering healthy root growth.
• Ruts in the Lawn: Mowing on a wet lawn can leave ruts or tire marks that are difficult to repair and can damage the lawn’s overall appearance.
• Uneven Cuts: Wet grass tends to bend rather than stand upright, making it difficult to achieve a clean, even cut.
• Clumping and Dead Spots: Wet grass clumps together and can form piles when mowed, blocking airflow and potentially causing dead spots in the lawn where the grass underneath suffocates.

For the best results, wait until your lawn is dry to mow—your grass will thank you!

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For the first mow of spring, it’s important not to scalp the grass. Aim for a cut height of about 3.5 to 4.5 inches, leaving the blades tall enough to promote photosynthesis and deep root development.

• Healthy Spring Growth: Tall grass encourages deep roots, making it more resilient to drought and heat later in the summer.
• No Scalping: Cutting too short will stress the grass, slowing growth and making it more susceptible to diseases.

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When it comes to your first spring cut and beyond, mowing your lawn to a height of 3.5 to 4.5 inches is one of the most important factors for achieving a lush, healthy lawn. While it may be tempting to go for a short, manicured look, cutting grass too short actually weakens the plant, leading to more water use, nutrient loss, and shallower roots. Here’s why taking the high road pays off:

• Better Water Retention: Taller grass shades the soil, reducing evaporation and helping the lawn retain more moisture. This means you’ll need to water less frequently, conserving both water and time.
• Deeper, Stronger Roots: Grass cut higher focuses more energy on root growth, allowing the roots to grow deeper. Deep roots are key to surviving droughts and absorbing more nutrients from the soil.
• Natural Weed and Disease Control: Thicker, taller grass creates a dense barrier that crowds out weeds, making it harder for them to take hold. Plus, healthier grass is more resistant to disease and pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
• Less Stress on the Lawn: Cutting too short forces the grass to regrow rapidly, weakening the plant and making it more susceptible to stress from heat and foot traffic. A higher cut reduces this stress and helps keep the lawn looking green and full.

By mowing high, you create a lawn that is naturally more resilient, requires less water, and stays greener with fewer weeds and diseases. You'll save time, money, and effort while enjoying a healthier, more sustainable yard all season long.

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If mower blades were sharpened in fall – your all set! Spring is no time to dilly with dull mower blades, which can tear grass blades rather than cut them cleanly. This first mow is a great time to ensure your blades are sharpened. Sharp blades reduce the risk of disease and damage to your lawn, and a clean cut helps the grass heal faster after the winter season.  Depending on the size and consistency of lawn mowing, you’ll want to maintain sharp blades about 2 – 3 times throughout the season or every 25- 30 hours of mowing time.

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In early spring, it’s best to leave grass clippings on the lawn. As the grass begins to grow again, these clippings can serve as a natural fertilizer, returning nutrients back to the soil. Just make sure you’re not leaving behind clumps of clippings, as these can smother the lawn.

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One common cause of bare spots in your lawn is the formation of "haystacks" or clumps of grass left behind after mowing, especially when cutting grass that’s too high or wet. These clumps can smother the grass underneath, blocking sunlight and airflow, which eventually causes the grass to die and creates bare patches.

To prevent this, always mow when the grass is dry and never cut off more than one-third of the grass height at a time. This keeps clippings short and easy to disperse back into the lawn. If clumps do form, make sure to rake them up or mulch them finely to prevent damage to the lawn below. Regular, high mowing helps prevent clumping and ensures even growth throughout the season.

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Pair your first mow with a spring fertilization plan. Be Green Pro recommends an organic-based fertilizer to jumpstart growth and green-up your lawn after winter dormancy. Spring fertilizer provides nutrients that strengthen the grass for the upcoming growing season and ensures even, lush growth.

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If your lawn is looking patchy or thin after winter, spring is a great time to pair your first mow with aeration and overseeding. Aerating helps relieve compaction caused by winter snow and foot traffic, while overseeding fills in bare spots, ensuring an even, thick lawn as the season progresses. There is mechanical or microbial aeration.  Ask an expert about the difference and which one is best for your lawn.

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While the first mow of spring is important, maintaining a healthy lawn requires ongoing attention throughout the growing season. Regular mowing at the proper height, avoiding cuts when the grass is wet, and ensuring your mower blades stay sharp are key practices that will support your lawn's long-term health. Consistency in these habits strengthens the lawn's resistance to common issues like weeds, disease, and drought.

Beyond mowing, proper watering practices, seasonal fertilization, and soil care (like aeration and overseeding) should be part of your ongoing lawn care strategy. Keeping grass around 3.5 to 4.5 inches will make your lawn more resilient, retain more moisture, and naturally deter weeds. Regular care keeps your lawn looking lush, green, and vibrant while reducing the need for chemical interventions.

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1. Spring Clean-Up: Rake Away Winter Debris
   Clear your yard of leaves, sticks, and debris. This promotes air circulation and prevents mold from forming, ensuring your lawn can breathe and absorb sunlight for a healthy start.
2. Inspect Your Lawn for Winter Damage
   Winter can leave behind bare spots, compacted soil, or snow mold. Walk through your lawn and assess any damage before the first mow.
3. Test and Adjust Your Irrigation System, Outdoor Faucets, and Water Sources
   Turn on your irrigation system, spigots, and other outdoor water sources to check for leaks, broken sprinkler heads, or inefficiencies. Repair any issues and adjust the watering schedule to water deeply but infrequently, promoting stronger root development for your lawn and garden.
4. Spring Fertilization
   Use an organic-based, slow-release fertilizer to give your lawn a nutrient boost after dormancy. Early spring fertilization helps the grass green up and promotes strong growth.
5. Overseed Bare Spots
   After assessing the lawn, if you see thin or bare patches, now is the perfect time for repairs. Choose a high-quality, region-appropriate grass seed blend containing a perennial mix. Loosen the soil to create a powdery bed before adding seed, then lightly water the area. Mechanical or microbial aeration complements overseeding, improving soil structure and seed establishment. Be sure to water consistently and avoid mowing over the newly seeded areas as much as possible.
6. Apply Pre-Emergent Weed Control (If No Seeding Is Planned)
   Prevent crabgrass from overtaking your lawn by applying a pre-emergent herbicide. This treatment creates a barrier that stops crabgrass seeds from germinating. However, avoid using it if you plan to overseed, as it will prevent grass seed from growing too. If you plan to seed, hold off on pre-emergent weed control until the fall. Crabgrass can also be treated later in the season with post-emergent solutions if necessary.
7. Check and Repair Outdoor Furniture and Pot Planters
   Inspect your patio furniture and planters for damage. Clean and repair them to prepare for outdoor gatherings, and get your pots ready for fresh spring plantings.
8. Turn and Tend to Compost & Prep Garden Beds
   Spring is a great time to turn your compost pile, aerate it, and ensure it's breaking down properly. Add fresh kitchen scraps and yard waste. Start preparing your garden beds by removing weeds and mixing compost into the soil.
9. Prepare Pets for Spring
   Spring is the perfect time to schedule yearly vet appointments and ensure your pets are in good health. Update flea and tick treatments, check for signs of pests, and clean your pet’s outdoor bedding and toys. Inspect outdoor spaces where your pets play, and if lawn damage from urine is common, consider an all-natural lawn treatment to amend the soil and keep your yard looking fabulous.
10. Tune Up and Test Lawn Tools
    Get your mower and lawn tools ready for spring by sharpening blades, checking oil levels, and cleaning or replacing air filters for smooth operation. Inspect all tools—like pruners, shears, and spades—for any necessary repairs or maintenance. If you did this in the fall, you should be all set for a smooth start to the season!
11. Inspect Your Roof, Gutters, and Masonry
    Check for missing shingles, cracks in the gutters, or damaged brickwork and chimney. Clean out debris from the gutters to ensure proper drainage before the spring rains begin.
12. Refresh Outdoor Lighting
    Spring is a great time to check and refresh your outdoor lighting. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and consider upgrading to energy-efficient LED lighting to illuminate your garden and walkways as the days get longer. Well-placed lighting not only adds safety but enhances your outdoor spaces for evening enjoyment. It’s also the perfect time to sweep away cobwebs that have accumulated around the outdoors of your home.

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Your lawn is more than just an outdoor space—it's a reflection of the care and effort you put into maintaining it. By following these greener mowing guidelines, you’ll ensure a healthier, more sustainable lawn that’s not only beautiful but also eco-friendly. Remember, the first mow of the season is just the beginning; consistency is the key to a thriving lawn that will last through spring, summer, and beyond.

At Be Green Pro, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Whether you need expert advice on sustainable lawn care, organic fertilization, aeration, or overseeding, we offer organic-based solutions that work in harmony with nature. Reach out to us to learn more about our services and how we can help keep your lawn healthy, green, and chemical-free all year long.

Contact us today to schedule your first lawn care service or to ask about any of your lawn care needs. Let’s work together to create a beautiful, sustainable lawn that you can enjoy all season long.

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