What's the right way to cut your grass in winter?

What’s the Correct Way to Cut Your Grass in Winter?(And Why It’s Not Just About Looking Tidy)

A healthy looking lawn set up for winter

Let’s face it—most people either forget about their lawn in winter… or keep mowing it like it’s still summer. Both can backfire.

The truth is, winter mowing is more about strategy than schedule. Cut too short, and you’re risking damage. Let it grow wild, and you’re welcoming moss, mould, and a muddy mess. So what’s the right move?

Let’s break it down.

1. Lower It, But Don’t Buzz It

Think of your lawn like a winter jacket for your soil. It should be short enough to stay dry and breathable, but long enough to protect the roots.

The sweet spot? Around 4–5cm, depending on your grass type. That’s tall enough to shield the soil from heavy rain and cold snaps, but short enough to stop it holding too much moisture (aka moss city).

2. Don’t Mow on Wet, Soggy Days

We know—it’s New Zealand. Dry winter days are rare, and sometimes you just want to “get it done.” But mowing wet grass can damage your lawn more than help it.

It tears at the blades instead of giving them a clean cut, compacts the soil, and clumps up under your mower. Wait for a dry spell (even a day or two of no rain) and let the lawn dry out before mowing. Your mower—and your lawn—will thank you.

A winter lawn mown while wet—compacted soil and damp conditions creating the perfect environment for moss, weeds, and poor lawn health.

3. Keep Those Blades Sharp

Winter mowing is gentler, so your gear needs to be sharper. Dull blades rip the grass, leaving jagged edges that can brown off and invite disease.

Give your mower blades a quick sharpen or service before the season kicks in. It makes a big difference, especially when your lawn isn’t growing quickly enough to bounce back from a rough cut.

A healthy lawn going into the colder months - Sharp blades & 4-5cm of length

4. Less Is More

In winter, your grass slows right down. It’s not trying to grow tall and lush—it’s just trying to survive the wet and cold. So don’t overdo it. You might only need to mow every 3–5 weeks, depending on rainfall and temps.

If you’re not sure, step outside and have a look. If it’s getting long or starting to flop over, give it a trim. Otherwise? Let it be.

A yard left a little too long between cuts - damp, mossy & overgrown

Wrap-Up: Cut Smart, Not Short

Winter mowing isn’t about keeping your lawn picture-perfect—it’s about helping it stay healthy, dry, and prepped for a strong spring comeback. Keep the height around 4–5cm, wait for dry days, and sharpen those blades. Easy as.

Need someone to sort it for you? Give us a shout. We’ll take the guesswork out of winter mowing—and keep your lawn looking tidy while the weather does its thing.