Lawn Mowing Tips for Newly Installed Grass

When it comes to maintaining the perfect lawn, care starts right after the installation. Whether you’ve chosen natural turf or invested in artificial grass installation, understanding the right mowing practices (or the equivalent for synthetic lawns) ensures your garden stays looking pristine. Grass installation is only the first step – proper aftercare plays an essential role in keeping your lawn lush, green, and healthy.

In this guide, we’ll explore expert mowing and maintenance tips that apply to newly laid grass and artificial lawns, including advice from experienced artificial grass installers and lawn services professionals.

Understanding the First Cut for New Grass

If you’ve recently had a grass installation, your first mow should be done at the right time to avoid damaging the fresh roots. For natural turf, wait until the grass reaches around 7–8 cm in height before mowing. This allows the roots to establish securely in the soil. Using a sharp mower blade is essential, as dull blades can tear the grass, causing stress and making it more susceptible to disease.

For artificial grass installation, there’s no mowing in the traditional sense, but there is essential grooming. A stiff brush or specialised turf rake should be used to lift the blades and remove debris. This helps maintain the realistic look and prevents the fibres from flattening.

Setting the Right Mowing Height

The mowing height depends on the season and grass type, but for newly laid natural lawns, the first few cuts should be light, removing only the top third of the blade. Cutting too short can weaken the grass, exposing the soil and encouraging weeds. Lawn services experts recommend keeping the height slightly longer during the early stages to encourage root depth and improve drought resistance.

If you’ve had artificial grass installation, height is not an issue, but brushing direction can make a big difference to its appearance. Artificial grass installers often advise brushing the fibres against the grain for a fuller look, especially in high-traffic areas.

Frequency of Mowing or Brushing

Consistency is key. For natural turf, mowing once a week during the growing season keeps the lawn looking neat and healthy. Over time, you can adjust the frequency based on weather conditions and growth rate. In spring and summer, you might need to mow more often, while in cooler months, growth slows down.

Artificial lawns, on the other hand, require brushing every couple of weeks, or more frequently if you have pets or children using the area regularly. Professional lawn services can provide periodic deep cleaning, ensuring your artificial grass remains free from dirt, moss, or weeds.

Equipment Care and Maintenance

A well-maintained lawn also depends on your tools. For natural grass, keep mower blades sharp and clean to achieve precise cuts and reduce the risk of disease. Avoid mowing when the grass is wet, as it can cause clumping and leave the lawn uneven.

For artificial grass installation, invest in a quality stiff-bristle broom or mechanical brush to maintain the fibres. Avoid metal rakes or sharp tools that could damage the turf backing. Many artificial grass installers recommend occasional infill top-ups to keep the surface springy and resilient.

Seasonal Adjustments to Your Lawn Care Routine

Every season brings different challenges for lawn care. After grass installation, spring and summer are ideal for growth, but these seasons also demand more frequent mowing and watering for natural turf. Autumn is perfect for aerating and removing fallen leaves, while winter requires minimal maintenance but protection from frost damage.

For artificial lawns, seasonal care is simpler. Regular brushing, removing organic debris, and rinsing the surface with water will keep it clean year-round. Lawn services specialising in artificial grass installation can provide seasonal deep cleans, helping extend the lifespan of your turf.

Avoiding Common Mistakes with New Lawns

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make after grass installation is cutting the lawn too soon or too short. This can stress the grass and slow establishment. Another common error is overwatering or watering at the wrong time of day, leading to shallow root growth and increased disease risk.

For artificial grass, neglecting regular brushing or allowing debris to accumulate can cause compaction and drainage issues. Consulting professional artificial grass installers for aftercare advice ensures your investment stays in top condition.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’ve chosen a natural lawn or opted for artificial grass installation, proper mowing or grooming is crucial for long-lasting results. Grass installation is only the beginning – how you care for your lawn in the first few weeks sets the tone for its future appearance and durability.

From setting the right mowing height to regular brushing and seasonal maintenance, small, consistent actions can make a big difference. If you’re unsure about the best routine for your lawn, professional lawn services and artificial grass installers can provide expert guidance, tailored to your garden’s needs.