The First Mow and Feeding: Setting Your Lawn Up for a Healthy Spring
Why Your First Mow and Feed Matter
Spring is arriving, and your lawn is finally waking up after a long, damp winter. The way you treat it now will determine how well it thrives in the months ahead.
Mowing too soon, cutting too short, or using the wrong fertiliser can weaken the grass, giving weeds and moss the upper hand. But with the right approach, your lawn will bounce back greener, stronger, and healthier than ever.
Let’s break down the best way to mow your lawn for the first time this year and how to feed it properly for lush spring growth.
Step 1: Timing the First Cut Just Right
When Should You Mow for the First Time?
🌱 Late March to early April is the ideal time for your first mow, depending on the weather. If temperatures are consistently above 7°C, the grass will begin growing steadily.
📌 Don’t rush! Cutting the grass while it’s still dormant will stress weak roots and slow down recovery.
How to Check If It’s Time to Mow:
✔️ The grass is actively growing – if it’s noticeably longer than in winter, it’s ready.
✔️ The ground isn’t too wet – mowing on soggy soil can cause compaction.
✔️ Temperatures are mild – avoid mowing during sudden cold snaps.
Step 2: The Right Way to Mow Your Lawn in Spring
The first cut of the year isn’t like your usual summer mow. It needs to be gentle.
✅ First Mowing Rules:
✔️ Set the mower high – Aim for 5-6cm to avoid scalping the grass.
✔️ Only remove the top third – Cutting too much at once can shock the lawn.
✔️ Use a sharp blade – A blunt blade tears the grass, leaving it vulnerable to disease.
✔️ Mow when dry – Wet grass clumps, leaving an uneven finish.
📌 Pro Tip: If your lawn is very long after winter, mow in two stages:
1️⃣ First cut: Higher setting (around 6cm).
2️⃣ Next mow (a week later): Lower slightly, but never below 3.5cm in spring.
🚫 What NOT to Do:
❌ Don’t scalp the lawn – this weakens the grass and invites moss and weeds.
❌ Don’t mow too early – grass needs time to build strength before regular cutting.
❌ Don’t use a roller on damp grass – it can compact the soil, reducing airflow.
Step 3: Feeding Your Lawn for Spring Growth
Why Spring Feeding is Essential
Winter depletes your lawn’s nutrients, leaving weak, pale, and slow-growing grass. A well-timed spring feed:
✅ Boosts growth and greenness
✅ Strengthens roots for resilience
✅ Helps outcompete weeds and moss
But choosing the right fertiliser is crucial, the wrong one can cause excessive growth or weakened roots.
Step 4: Choosing the Right Lawn Feed
What to Look for in a Spring Lawn Feed
✔️ High Nitrogen (N) Content – Encourages leaf growth and lush colour.
✔️ Balanced Phosphorus (P) & Potassium (K) – Supports root strength and disease resistance.
✔️ Slow-Release Formula – Provides steady nutrients without rapid, weak growth.
When to Apply Spring Fertiliser?
📅 Late March to early April, when grass is actively growing.
🌤️ Choose a mild, damp day—avoid frosty mornings or scorching afternoons.
Step 5: Applying Lawn Feed Like a Pro
🌱 How to Feed Your Lawn Properly:
✔️ Apply evenly – Patchy feeding leads to uneven growth. Use a spreader for best results.
✔️ Water in if dry – If no rain is forecast, lightly water the lawn after application.
✔️ Wait before mowing – Let the feed settle for 3-4 days before cutting the grass.
📌 Pro Tip: Overfeeding can cause “soft” growth, making grass more vulnerable to disease. Stick to the recommended dose!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Mowing Too Short Too Soon
🔹 Cutting too much at once weakens the grass and exposes soil to weeds.
🚫 Over-Fertilising
🔹 More isn’t better, excess nitrogen leads to weak, fast growth that’s easily damaged.
🚫 Feeding Too Early
🔹 Applying fertiliser in February or early March is too soon, grass isn’t ready to absorb it yet.
🚫 Using the Wrong Feed
🔹 A summer or autumn feed won’t provide the right nutrients for spring growth.
FAQ: Spring Lawn Care Questions Answered
Q: Can I use leftover fertiliser from last year?
A: It depends! Granular feeds last longer, but liquid feeds can lose effectiveness over time. Check the packaging for shelf life.
Q: When can I start mowing weekly?
A: Once temperatures stay above 10°C and grass grows steadily, usually from mid-April onwards.
Q: Should I water my lawn after fertilising?
A: If rain isn’t expected within 24 hours, give the lawn a light watering to help the nutrients absorb.
The Takeaway: A Strong Start for a Stronger Lawn
The first mow and feed of the season set the tone for a healthier, greener lawn all year.
✅ Mow carefully – First cut should be light and high.
✅ Feed wisely – Use a high-nitrogen spring feed at the right time.
✅ Stay patient – A good lawn isn’t rushed, but the results are worth it.
Let LawnTec help! Get expert lawn care for a stress-free spring.