When Do You Mow Newly Seeded Grass?

Remove one-third of the grass tips when mowing for the first time.

New lawns grow at varying rates, depending on the type of grass planted, soil temperature and outdoor climate. When mowing a freshly seeded lawn that has recently established itself, make sure the mower blade is sharp for easy slicing and cutting.

Mowing Time Frame

Wait until the newly seeded lawn is at least 2 months old before mowing for the first time. The seeds require time for adequate germination and root growth to occur before they should be mowed.

Considerations

Consider withholding water from the grass for a day or two before mowing so the soil dries out a little bit. Wet soil will cause the newly germinated grass roots to pull up easily when mowed. Dry soil helps hold the grass roots in the soil.

Warning

Set the lawn mower so that only one-third of the grass tips are removed at the time of cutting. Mowing young grass too short can easily damage it and result in its death. The second time you mow freshly seeded grass, mow it at the recommended grass height for the grass variety.

References

• University of California: Mowing New Lawns
• Iowa State University: Establishing a Lawn From Seed
• University of Illinois: Guidelines for Mowing Lawns Properly

Resources

• Ohio State University: Natural Organic Lawn Care for Ohio