Should you mow before trimming?

In my experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, the order in which you mow and trim your lawn can vary depending on personal preference and the specific needs of your lawn. Some people prefer to trim the edges first before mowing, while others find it more convenient to mow first and then trim.

One argument for trimming the edges first is that it allows you to mow over the cut grass from the edges, which can help to leave the lawn clean of debris when you are finished. This can be especially helpful if you have a mulching mower that can effectively distribute the clippings back into the lawn. By mowing over the trimmed edges, you can avoid leaving behind unsightly clumps of grass that may need to be raked up later.

On the other hand, if you don’t mind blowing or raking away the trimmings after you have finished mowing, then it doesn’t really matter whether you mow or trim first. Some people find it more efficient to mow the entire lawn first and then trim the edges afterwards. This can be particularly useful if you have a large lawn or if trimming the edges requires more precision and attention to detail.

Personally, I have found that mowing before trimming works well for me. I prefer to get the bulk of the lawn mowing done first, as it allows me to cover more ground quickly and efficiently. Once the main mowing is complete, I can then focus on trimming the edges and giving the lawn a more polished and finished look. Additionally, by mowing first, I can use the mower to blow away any loose grass clippings that may have accumulated along the edges, reducing the need for additional clean-up.

The decision of whether to mow before trimming or vice versa ultimately depends on your personal preference and the specific needs of your lawn. If you prefer a cleaner finish without the need for additional clean-up, trimming first and mowing over the edges can be a good option. However, if you don’t mind the extra step of blowing or raking away trimmings, then it doesn’t really matter which order you choose. Experiment with both methods and see which one works best for you and your 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.