When to Start Mowing in Spring: A Guide for Southern Ontario

Every spring we get the same question from homeowners around Orangeville — when should I start mowing? There's no single date that works for everyone, but there are clear signs that tell you when your lawn is actually ready.

What to Look For

The grass needs to be actively growing, not just green. Look for blades that are pushing 3 to 4 inches. If it's been warm for a few days but the grass hasn't moved much, give it another week.

The ground also needs to be firm. If you're sinking in when you walk across it, the soil is still too wet and your mower will leave ruts and compact the root zone.

How to Do the First Mow Right

Set your blade higher than normal — 3.5 inches is a good starting point. The grass has been dormant all winter and cutting it short right out of the gate puts it under unnecessary stress.

Never take off more than a third of the blade length in one cut. If the grass got away from you and is sitting at 5 inches, don't cut it down to 2 in one pass. Drop it gradually over a few mows.

Make sure your blade is sharp before you start. Dull blades shred the grass tips instead of cutting them, and shredded tips turn brown and make the lawn look rough even after a fresh mow.

When to Expect It in Orangeville

Most years, lawns in the Orangeville area are ready for their first cut somewhere between mid-April and early May. A late winter or cold spring can push that back two to three weeks easily.

Don't go by what your neighbour is doing — go by what your lawn is telling you.

Rather Not Think About It?

That's a reasonable position. Ironline offers weekly and bi-weekly mowing throughout the season so you never have to think about it. Contact us for a free quote.