When Is The Best Time To Mow Your Lawn?

When driving around a neighborhood and appreciating homes, some of the first things people notice are front yards and landscaping. People love a well-manicured yard or garden. In many communities, mowing the lawn is considered the primary way of keeping the home's exterior looking neat and the neighborhood's overall appearance up to par. For this reason, some homeowners' associations implement landscaping regulations, Nolo reports. They often require a homeowner to follow certain guidelines to keep peace in the neighborhood and maintain the home's property values. 

Clearly, lawn care is an important aspect of a home's appearance. In addition, many people like to make lawn care their summer hobby. For the serious landscaper or the just-for-fun mower, there are a few general rules of thumb to follow for an impressive yard. So, when exactly is the best time to mow your lawn to keep it healthy and beautiful? We've got the details below.

Homeowner's DIY Guide says you should consider your region and grass type when deciding when to mow the lawn. Depending on whether your climate is arid, like the southwestern parts of the U.S., or humid, like the southeast, grass-cutting differences can arise. For example, some grasses grow year-round and will need consistent attention throughout the seasons.

Second, you should consider the time of day you mow the lawn. As Homeowner's DIY Guide reports, there are two preferred options — morning or late afternoon. They recommend between 8 and 10 a.m. if you prefer to mow in the morning. This way, the dew has had time to dry. Mowing a wet lawn can cause clumping, bare patches, and uneven growth. The benefit of cutting in the late afternoon, between 4 and 5 p.m., is that the hottest part of the day has passed, reducing the amount of stress on the grass. It also prevents the mower from being outside when the sun is beaming and temperatures are highest. In hot states, including Arizona and Florida, mid-afternoon temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees, so strenuous outdoor activities during this time can be a safety concern.