(Image credit: BrianAJackson)

There are a few things to do to get that manicured, golf pro ready lawn -- the envy of your neighbors. Interestingly WHEN to cut grass is one of the most important factors. Knowing the best time to cut grass may seem trivial but it is in fact important to the health and long term well-being of your turf. 

Don’t Cut Grass at This Time of Day

The correct time to mow the lawn is indeed crucial. It isn’t more crucial than the height of the grass, or how often it’s mowed or whether you mulch, but it is one of the more important aspects of healthy lawn maintenance. 

When to cut your grass depends on a few factors. You don’t want the grass to be too wet from dew or irrigation for one thing, but how about the heat factor? Is it bad to mow your lawn when it’s too hot? 

Just as it is likely more uncomfortable for you to mow when it’s high noon and temperatures are sweltering, it is just as unpleasant for your grass. Mowing during the heat of the day can accelerate moisture loss -- both for the grass and for you. 

Best Times to Mow the Lawn

All that said, the best time to mow the lawn is mid-morning between 8-10 am when the dew has dried from the grass. If it's raining, or the grass is still wet, don't mow.

Barring this peak time period, the next best time to mow is the late afternoon from 4-6 pm when temperatures have cooled or are in the process of cooling. Any later in the evening and the grass will not have enough time to recover which can make it susceptible to turf disease and grass fungus.

Amy Grant
Writer

Amy Grant has been gardening for 30 years and writing for 15. A professional chef and caterer, Amy's area of expertise is culinary gardening.