When Is the Best Time to Mow Grass in Florida?

Key Takeaways

• Timing is everything: The best time to mow in Florida is in the morning (8-10 a.m.) when the dew has dried, or in the late afternoon (4-6 p.m.) to avoid the midday heat.
• Mow smart, not short: Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time and keep your lawn a bit taller (3-4 inches) to help it stay healthy and retain moisture.
• Know your seasons: Adjust your mowing frequency based on the season. Mow more often in the fast-growing summer and less frequently in the cooler winter months.

The best time to mow your grass in Florida is usually in the morning, specifically between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. At this time, the morning dew has dried off the grass blades, which is important for a clean, healthy cut. If you can’t get to it in the morning, the next best time is in the late afternoon, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., after the sun’s worst heat has passed. Mowing at the right time is super important for a healthy and happy lawn.

When Is the Worst Time to Mow Your Lawn?

Just like there’s a best time, there are times you should definitely avoid.

• When it’s super hot: Mowing in the middle of a hot, sunny Florida day can be tough on your lawn. The stress from the heat combined with the stress from cutting can make your grass turn yellow or brown.
• When it’s wet: Mowing wet grass is a no-no. It can lead to uneven cuts, and the wet clippings can clog up your mower. It also makes your grass more likely to get diseases. Wait for it to dry out!
• At night: Mowing in the evening or at night is a bad idea. When you cut the grass, it creates a small “wound” on the blade. If the grass doesn’t have time to recover and dry out before the evening dampness, it can become a breeding ground for fungus and other diseases.

When Is the Best Time to Mow During Each Season?

Florida’s weather changes, and so should your mowing schedule!

Spring (March, April, May)

As the weather starts to warm up, your grass will wake up and begin to grow faster. This is when you’ll start mowing more often. You’ll probably need to mow every week or every other week, depending on how fast your grass grows.

Summer (June, July, August)

Summer is the big growth season in Florida. With all the heat and rain, you might need to mow once a week, or even more! Just be sure to follow the “morning or late afternoon” rule to avoid the worst of the heat. And remember, don’t cut off more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. It keeps your lawn healthy and helps the roots grow strong.

Fall (September, October, November)

As things cool down a bit, your grass’s growth will slow down. You can start mowing less often, maybe every two weeks. This is a great time to get your lawn ready for the cooler months ahead by making sure the blades aren’t cut too short.

Winter (December, January, February)

This is the slow season for mowing. Many Florida lawns will slow their growth way down. You might only need to mow once a month, or maybe not at all if it’s a cool winter. Just keep an eye on it.

What Our Customers Say

“I highly recommend Lowerys True Value in Brooksville. I have been renting several pieces of equipment over the past two weeks. They had everything ready to go when I got there. Chad Adam and Jim were fantastic. This is my go to place for anything I need for my small business to get the job done. I will definitely be back to talk to Keith and get a mower package looking forward to doing more business with them in the future thanks, Lowery’s, True, Value, in Brooksville for always having what we need for our small business” – Ashley B., Brooksville 

“They were easy to deal with . Gave me a good deal and fair trade value on a new commercial Gravely Zero-turn mower. It was a good experience and I would recommend you to check them out before you buy any Gravely lawn mower or Stihl equipment I will definitely buy from them again!!!” – Bruce S.

Common Questions About Mowing Your Grass

1. How high should I cut my grass?

It’s usually best to keep your grass on the taller side, around 3-4 inches. Taller grass shades the soil, which helps it hold moisture and keeps weeds from growing.

2. Can I mow when the grass is wet?

It’s a bad idea. Mowing wet grass can lead to uneven cuts and can harm your lawn and your mower. Wait until the grass is dry.

3. What happens if I mow too short?

Cutting your grass too short can stress it out, making it weaker and more likely to get pests or diseases. It also lets weeds have an easier time growing.

4. How often should I sharpen my mower blades?

You should sharpen your mower blades at least once a season. Dull blades tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, which can make your lawn look ragged and unhealthy.

5. How do I know what kind of grass I have?

Most Florida lawns have “warm-season” grasses like St. Augustine or Bermuda grass. These grasses love the heat and are what all of our advice is based on. If you’re not sure, you can always ask an expert!

Ready to Get Your Lawn Looking Its Best?

Following a simple Florida lawn care calendar can make a huge difference in how your lawn looks and feels. Having the right tools and knowing the right time to use them is half the battle. At Lowery’s True Value, we don’t just sell you great equipment like mowers and trimmers, we are your neighbors and we know Florida lawns.

We’ve been helping the community near and surrounding Florida for years, providing expert advice and the best products for a beautiful lawn. From sharpening your blades to helping you pick out the perfect fertilizer, we’ve got you covered. Come on in and let us help you with your next lawn project. We’re the experts, and we’re here to help you grow!