When spring arrives in Utah, it signals more than just warmer weather—it’s the official start of lawn mowing season. But mowing your grass the wrong way can cause more harm than good, especially after a long winter.
At Saratoga Mowing, we know that proper mowing is one of the most important steps in maintaining a healthy, resilient lawn. Whether you plan to do it yourself or want to understand what our weekly mowing service includes, this guide covers everything you need to know about spring lawn mowing.
1. Start When the Grass is Ready—Not Just When It’s Green
You might be tempted to fire up the mower as soon as your lawn starts to green up, but early mowing can damage the turf if the soil is still soggy or the grass hasn’t begun active growth.
Wait until:
- Soil is no longer saturated or muddy
- Grass blades are at least 3 inches tall
- There’s no risk of frost in the forecast
Pro Tip: Walking on soft, wet soil compacts it and stresses the roots—hold off until the ground firms up.
2. Use Sharp Mower Blades (It’s More Important Than You Think)
Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting it, leading to frayed tips, brown edges, and increased vulnerability to disease.
Before your first mow:
- Sharpen the mower blades
- Clean out the mower deck
- Check fuel, oil, and air filters if using a gas mower
If you’re unsure how to sharpen blades, a professional tune-up or service is well worth it for better lawn health.
3. Follow the 1/3 Rule Every Time You Mow
Cutting too much at once is one of the most common spring mowing mistakes. Grass blades store energy, and removing too much stresses the plant.
Follow this rule:
Never cut more than 1/3 of the grass blade’s height in a single mowing.
For most Utah lawns, keeping your grass between 2.5″–3.5″ is ideal in spring. Taller grass shades the soil, reduces evaporation, and prevents weed germination.
4. Change Your Mowing Pattern Weekly
Mowing in the same direction every time can lead to compacted soil and “ruts” where your mower wheels travel.
Rotate your mowing pattern:
- Horizontal one week, vertical the next
- Diagonal patterns also reduce stress on grass blades
Bonus Benefit: Alternating patterns helps your grass stand up straighter and grow more evenly.
5. Leave the Clippings (Yes, Really)
Grass clippings are a free source of nitrogen and moisture—don’t waste them!
If you’re mowing regularly and not scalping the lawn, let the clippings fall. They’ll decompose quickly and naturally fertilize the soil.
Avoid clumping or mulching if:
- The grass is too wet
- The clippings are very long
In these cases, bagging may be the cleaner choice.
6. Don’t Rely on Mowing Alone—Combine with Other Spring Services
Mowing is just one piece of the spring lawn care puzzle. To truly kickstart your lawn’s health, pair mowing with:
- Spring Cleanup – Removes debris and opens up airflow
- Sprinkler Startup – Ensures proper hydration
- Aeration and Fertilization – Improves soil structure and boosts root growth
Our full-service packages combine these services for optimal spring results. Learn more here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How often should I mow my lawn in the spring?
A: Weekly mowing is ideal. This keeps grass at a consistent height and reduces the risk of overcutting.
Q: Can mowing too short damage my lawn?
A: Yes. Scalping weakens the lawn, encourages weed growth, and can lead to brown, patchy areas.
Q: Is it better to mow in the morning or evening?
A: Late afternoon is best. Morning dew or wet grass can clog your mower, and evening mowing can leave your lawn vulnerable to fungus overnight.
Ready for a Healthy Lawn This Spring?
You could spend your weekends mowing and maintaining—or let Saratoga Mowing handle it all. With our weekly lawn mowing services, you get consistent care, expert timing, and a lawn that looks amazing all season long.
Book your spring mowing service today or call 801-810-5452 for a free quote!
