It’s tempting to ignore your lawn in winter, especially when growth slows or seems to stop. However, grasses—especially cool season grasses—can continue growing slowly when soil temperatures remain above 5°C. Even warm season grasses, although dormant, still benefit from being trimmed when necessary.
Many homeowners believe that once winter sets in, the lawn mower should go into hibernation. But the truth is, occasional mowing during the winter months can play a vital role in keeping your lawn healthy and resilient into spring and summer. Mowing lawns in winter, albeit less frequently, encourages better photosynthesis, helps control winter weeds, improves air circulation to prevent fungal lawn disease, and ensures your grass blades don’t become matted and diseased under wet grass or fallen leaf cover.
Neglecting your mowing schedule during the winter season can also lead to taller grass, which increases the chances of frost damage and disease spread. Mowing helps your turf remain tidy and well-oxygenated, making it easier to bounce back in early spring. This article explains why mowing lawn for winter is still necessary, how often to do it, and the best winter lawn care practices to prevent lawn disease, protect your grass’s roots, and maintain a well-maintained lawn throughout the cooler months.
Understanding Grass Growth in Cooler Months
Warm Season Grasses vs Cool Season Grasses
| Grass Type | Grows During Winter? | Characteristics |
| Warm season grasses | No (Dormant) | Includes Kikuyu, Buffalo, Couch. Needs less mowing. |
| Cool season grasses | Yes (Slow Growth) | Includes Fescue, Rye, Bluegrass. Grows slowly in winter. |
Best Practices for Mowing Lawns During Winter
1. Adjust Your Mowing Height
The general rule in winter is to raise your mowing height slightly. Leaving the grass a bit longer (around 6–7cm) allows the grass’s roots to strengthen and encourages deeper roots, which improves resistance to frost and lawn disease. Avoid removing more than one third of the grass blades at any time.
2. Use Sharp Mower Blades
Dull mower blades can tear rather than cut, causing stress to grass blades and increasing susceptibility to disease. Always ensure your lawn mower is cleaned and equipped with sharp mower blades, especially when cutting height matters more than ever in winter.
3. Avoid Mowing When Grass is Frosty or Wet
Wet grass or frosty grass can clump and create uneven cuts, leaving your lawn prone to fungus and bare patches. Wait for the afternoon when temperatures rise slightly, and the soil moist surface has dried off.
4. Leave Grass Clippings (Sometimes)
During cooler temperatures, it’s often beneficial to leave light grass clippings on the lawn to act as a natural mulch. This can help insulate the soil, retain moisture, and provide nutrients. However, avoid this if clippings are thick and wet, as they can smother the grass and promote mould.
Timing Your Winter Mowing Schedule
Here’s a month-by-month guide for mowing during the winter months in most parts of Australia:
| Month | Mowing Frequency | Notes |
| June | Every 4–5 weeks | Slow growth; check for winter weeds |
| July | Every 4–6 weeks | Raise mowing height; avoid mowing wet/frosty grass |
| August | Every 3–4 weeks | Watch for early new growth, prep for early spring |
| September | Every 2–3 weeks | Resume regular maintenance as temps rise |
By late winter, your mowing schedule should anticipate spring growth. A tidy cut in August will prepare your lawn for pre-emergent herbicide application to stop broadleaf weeds before they take hold.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Mowing Lawn for Winter
- Mowing too low: Scalping the grass reduces its ability to insulate and increases stress.
- Using a dirty mower: Debris can introduce disease—always clean your mower between uses.
- Ignoring new seedlings: If you’ve overseeded, avoid mowing until new grass is well established.
- Cutting on a schedule, not by observation: Adjust frequency based on visible grass growth, not the calendar.
Winter Lawn Care Beyond Mowing
Mowing is just one part of comprehensive winter lawn care. Here’s what else you should do:
Feed the Lawn Lightly
Although you may fertilise heavily in warm weather, a light feed with a slow-release, balanced fertiliser in late winter can replenish the food supply without pushing excessive growth.
Control Winter Weeds
Cold-tolerant broadleaf weeds like bindii, clover, and thistle thrive in winter. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide before they germinate in early spring helps maintain a healthy lawn into the next growing season.
Repair Bare Patches
Spot treat bare patches with a new lawn blend suited to your turf type. Keep soil moist but not soggy, and avoid mowing until new seedlings are established.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to mow my lawn in winter in Australia?
Short answer: Yes, but less often. Even though grass growth slows, periodic mowing helps prevent lawn disease, keeps taller grass in check, and maintains a well maintained appearance.
How high should I mow my grass in winter?
Increase your mowing height to 6–7 cm to protect the grass’s roots and insulate against frost. Never cut more than one third at a time.
What if I have a new lawn?
Avoid mowing until the new grass is at least 6 cm tall and has developed strong grass roots. Be gentle with mower blades and avoid mowing after rain.
Can mowing in winter damage the lawn?
Only if done improperly—e.g., mowing wet grass, using dull blades, or mowing too short. Done right, winter mowing supports lawn health.
Final Thoughts: A Strategic Trim for a Healthier Lawn
Regular mowing is often associated with summer, but overlooking your winter grass needs can set back months of effort. Strategic trimming supports better structure, prepares the lawn for new growth, and keeps weeds in check.
So, while you may retire your lawn mower for a few extra weeks at a time, don’t forget to check your grass height, scan for broadleaf weeds, and listen to your garden. The results will show when warmer months return—and your lawn is already thriving.