Should you edge your lawn before or after mowing?

When it comes to maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn, timing is everything. One common question that often arises is whether it’s better to edge your lawn before or after mowing. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can confidently say that it is generally recommended to edge your lawn before mowing. Let me explain why.

First and foremost, if your lawn is overgrown and full of weeds, it’s best to tackle those issues before mowing. By edging the lawn first, you can remove a thick layer of grass that would otherwise make it hard to achieve clean and precise edges. This is especially important if your lawn edges have become overgrown and uneven over time. Edging before mowing allows you to create a clear boundary between your lawn and any adjacent paths, flower beds, or hardscapes.

By edging before mowing, you also have the advantage of keeping the edges neat and clear. This is particularly important if you prefer a well-manicured look for your lawn. Edging creates defined lines, enhances the overall appearance of your lawn, and gives it a professional and polished look. It helps to prevent grass from encroaching onto your walkways, driveways, or flower beds, keeping everything tidy and well-maintained.

Additionally, edging before mowing helps to minimize the risk of damaging your lawn mower blades. Thick layers of grass along the edges can be tough to cut through and may put a strain on your mower. By removing the excess grass through edging, you make the mowing process easier and more efficient. This can help prolong the lifespan of your mower and ensure that it operates smoothly.

In my personal experience, I have found that edging before mowing also helps with overall lawn maintenance. When the edges are well-defined, it becomes easier to maintain them regularly. Regular edging not only keeps your lawn looking neat but also prevents grass from spreading into unwanted areas. It creates a clear separation between the lawn and other landscape features, making it easier to trim and maintain the edges in the future.

To summarize, edging your lawn before mowing is generally the recommended approach. It allows you to remove overgrown grass and weeds, creates clean and defined edges, and minimizes the risk of damaging your mower. By following this sequence, you can achieve a well-manicured lawn that stands out and enhances the overall appearance of your outdoor space.

Remember, every lawn is unique, and it’s essential to consider its specific needs and requirements. However, as a general guideline, edging before mowing is a tried-and-true method that can help you maintain a beautiful and healthy lawn.

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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.