Cutting wet grass is a dilemma many homeowners face during the rainy season. A recent survey gathered opinions from 168 homeowners on whether they mow their lawns when it’s wet. The results show that 139 homeowners prefer not to mow in such conditions, while 29 do so out of necessity due to living in wetter regions.
Homeowners cited several reasons for avoiding mowing wet grass, including the risk of disease, difficulty in cutting, potential damage to lawns and mowers, and inadequate equipment. Wet grass can clog mowers and leave clippings that smother the lawn underneath. It also increases susceptibility to fungal diseases like brown patches and dollar spot fungus.
The survey highlighted that cutting wet grass often leads to clumping, which can gum up the mower. To mitigate this issue, it is recommended to use a mower with a hard-sided collector and set the mowing height higher than usual. Additionally, using side discharge instead of a grass catcher can help spread clippings more evenly.
For those who must mow when it’s wet, precautions include checking for signs of excess moisture on the lawn before mowing and ensuring the mower is clean and well-maintained. Sharp blades are essential for reducing pressure on the mower and preventing damage.
Best practices suggest mowing during cooler parts of the day, such as late afternoon or early evening when dew has evaporated. This approach minimizes stress on both the lawn and mower.
In summary, while some homeowners have no choice but to mow wet grass due to climatic conditions, most avoid it due to associated risks. Those who do mow under these conditions should follow specific guidelines to minimize damage.
