An expert says it’s not time yet, but has given a date
11:43, 21 Feb 2026Updated 11:45, 21 Feb 2026
An expert has given a date(Image: Organic Media via Getty Images)
Gardening enthusiasts are being advised to hold off until March before giving their lawns their first trim of the year, as specialists caution against the pitfalls of mowing too early. After enduring a lengthy autumn and winter, many homeowners are itching to get back outdoors and give their gardens a well-deserved makeover.
However, one expert is sounding the alarm that it’s premature to tackle overgrown grass and urges patience for just a little while longer. Chris McIlroy, lawn expert at The Grass People, said: “Gardens experience snow, frost, fallen leaves and heavy downpours over the winter, which can leave them looking a bit worse for wear. It might be tempting to get a head start on sprucing areas up for spring, but the lawn mower should stay in the shed for now.
“Mowing your lawn when temperatures are still on the colder side is a big risk. Grass should be actively growing when you mow, and that only happens when temperatures are above 8C to 10C consistently.”
Chris McIlroy(Image: The Grass People)
‘Stalled growth’
Grass growth grinds to a halt during the colder months, with specialists noting that longer lawns are better equipped to withstand winter conditions. With February forecasts still predicting chilly temperatures, The Grass People recommend March as the earliest sensible time to get the mower out.
Mr McIlroy said: “February is likely to still be too cold, I’d suggest waiting until the first weekend of March and re-assessing the conditions then. Leaving your grass short allows winter cold and diseases to reach the grass roots easier, which can cause havoc.
“We can still experience winter conditions heading into spring, with colder temperatures bringing frost and snow. So it’s vital to keep checking the forecast. Some years, milder weather doesn’t arrive until April.”
While the lawn mower ought to remain in storage for the time being, Mr McIlroy maintains there are methods to nurture your lawn in preparation for spring.
It’s not quite time yet(Image: Pexels)
He said: “If you’re fed up with your lawn looking untidy, go out and clear up some of the debris that could have settled over the colder months. Twigs and leaves that have fallen from nearby trees and bushes can make your garden look unruly, but can also block the essential nutrients your lawn needs.
“After the challenging winter, your grass might need a boost from a fertiliser. It can help fight off diseases and prepare it for the months ahead.
“When you mow for the first time this year, ensure your mower blades are on the highest setting so you only trim the very top third of the grass. You can cut it shorter once you’ve seen how your lawn bounces back from this first mow.”
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