Is it safe to cut wet grass with a strimmer?

Cutting wet grass with a strimmer is generally not recommended, but if you really have no other option, it can be done. However, it’s important to keep in mind that doing so can have negative consequences for your lawn.

One of the main concerns with cutting wet grass is that it increases the chances of lawn diseases taking hold and damaging your lawn. Wet conditions provide a breeding ground for fungal spores and bacteria that can cause infections like Dollar Spot and other lawn diseases. These diseases can weaken your grass and lead to thinning, discoloration, and even death of the affected areas.

When you use a strimmer on wet grass, the grass blades can become torn and unevenly cut, which can further stress the grass and make it more vulnerable to disease. Additionally, wet grass clippings can clump together and block sunlight and air circulation, creating an ideal environment for fungal growth.

It’s worth noting that cutting wet grass with a strimmer can also be more challenging and less effective. The wet grass tends to be heavier and stickier, making it harder to cut cleanly and evenly. This can result in a less tidy and professional-looking finish.

In my personal experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have found that it’s best to wait for the grass to dry before using a strimmer or any other cutting tool. This allows for a cleaner and more precise cut, reducing the risk of damage and disease. If you need to cut the grass urgently, consider using a lawn mower instead, as they are designed to handle wet grass more effectively.

To ensure the health and vitality of your lawn, it is generally recommended to mow or strim when the grass is dry. This allows for a cleaner cut and minimizes the risk of disease. However, if you do find yourself in a situation where you must strim wet grass, take extra precautions to avoid damaging the grass and spreading diseases. Clean and disinfect your strimmer blades before and after use to prevent the spread of any potential pathogens.

While it is possible to strim wet grass, it is not ideal and should be avoided whenever possible. Wet grass increases the risk of lawn diseases and can make cutting more challenging. Waiting for the grass to dry before using a strimmer or using a lawn mower instead are generally better options for maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.