For most people, there are usually at least a couple of weeks during the lawn cutting season when it seems to rain and rain. Of course, the rain produces grass growth and the lawn begins to become too long for comfort. This leads many people to internal debate on whether to mow the wet grass or continue to allow the grass to add growth and hope the lawn drys out soon.
Can You Mow Wet Grass?
Yes, you can mow wet grass but we strongly suggest that you avoid doing so. The obvious result of cutting wet grass is clumping. Long grass that is wet will create a yard full of noticeable clippings. You will need to rake up the excessive clippings or use your mower bag to collect them. You risk damaging your lawn if you leave the excess clippings on the lawn for too long.
Mowing a wet lawn also increases the risk of injury. Operating a mower with sharp blades on a slippery surface isn’t safe. Additionally, if you have an electric mower, you by no means should use it in wet conditions because you run a risk of electric shock.
Tips for Mowing Wet Grass
Again, we do not recommend cutting wet grass. Mow it at your own risk. However, you can follow the below tips if you choose to do so:
- Cut Sooner, Rather Than Later: If the weather forecast says it is going to rain every day for the next two weeks, be proactive and mow your lawn before it gets too unruly. You do not have to stick to your normal weekly schedule if you notice your lawn is starting to get too long for comfort. Logically, the longer the grass grows, the bigger the hassle it is going to be to mow wet.
- Keep a Sharp Blade: A sharp blade will ensure that your grass is getting the best possible cut in terrible mowing conditions. This will help reduce the amount of excess clippings.
- Allow Time for Cleanup: Raking up clumps of grass is something that no lawn cutter wants to deal with. However, the health of your lawn depends on removing the extra clippings in a timely manner. Once you are done mowing, you should remove the inevitable grass that will be caked on your mower. This includes under the mower by the blade. Leaving wet grass on your mower can cause it to mold and rust.
- Cut High: Adjust your mower deck to its peak height when mowing wet grass. This will help the mower make it way through the wet mess. The lower the deck height, the more your mower will struggle.
- Consider Side Discharge: If your mower allows a side discharge, this may be an option to help prevent the mower from stalling out in the wet grass. You will no doubt need to rake, but it may speed up the actual lawn cutting process.
- Pay a Pro: If you have access to a professional lawn cutting service, you may be able to get them to do a one time cut. Their mowers are typically much better at handling long, wet grass than the traditional home mower.
