How Often Should You Mow Your Lawn in Winter?

July 11, 2025

As the cooler months set in across Brisbane, many homeowners breathe a sigh of relief as their lawn’s rapid summer growth finally slows down. But while winter means less mowing, it doesn’t mean you can pack the mower away completely.

Understanding how often to mow your lawn in winter is key to keeping it healthy, tidy, and ready to bounce back when spring arrives.

Let’s explore why winter mowing still matters and how to keep your grass looking its best in the colder months.

Does Grass Grow in Winter?

In South East Queensland’s subtropical climate, grass growth slows significantly during winter due to cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Warm-season grasses like buffalo, couch, and kikuyu enter a dormant phase where growth almost comes to a halt.

This doesn’t mean the lawn stops growing altogether—it just grows at a much slower rate. You’ll still notice some growth, especially in sunny areas, but it won’t need the frequent mowing required in spring and summer.

How Often Should You Mow in Winter?

As a general guide, you should mow your lawn every 3 to 5 weeks in winter, depending on your grass type and local conditions:

Buffalo and Kikuyu Lawns – These can go 4-5 weeks between mows as they are hardy and slow-growing in cooler weather.
Couch Lawns – Couch grass grows slightly faster than buffalo in winter and may require mowing every 3-4 weeks.

The golden rule is to mow only when the grass needs it. If it hasn’t grown much since your last mow, hold off for another week or two.

Why You Should Still Mow in Winter

It might be tempting to skip mowing altogether in winter, but occasional mowing is beneficial for several reasons:

Prevents Thatch Build-Up – Mowing helps keep the lawn free from excess organic matter that can create a spongy surface.
Encourages Healthy Growth – Light mowing stimulates the grass to thicken up, even during dormancy.
Keeps Your Yard Neat – A tidy lawn improves your property’s street appeal and discourages weeds from taking over.

Tips for Mowing Your Lawn in Winter

1. Don’t Cut Too Short

Raise your mower’s cutting height by a notch or two in winter. Leaving your grass slightly longer helps it photosynthesise more effectively during the shorter days and protects the roots from cold snaps.

2. Only Mow Dry Grass

Avoid mowing wet grass as it can lead to an uneven cut, clumping, and even damage to your mower. Wait until the sun has dried the morning dew before heading out.

3. Sharpen Your Blades

Blunt mower blades can tear the grass rather than cutting it cleanly, leaving it vulnerable to disease. A sharp blade gives a neat, healthy finish.

4. Remove Leaves and Debris

Winter often brings fallen leaves and garden debris. Clear these regularly to ensure your lawn gets enough sunlight and airflow.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-Mowing – Cutting too frequently in winter can stress dormant grass and leave it prone to weeds and disease.

Scalping the Lawn – Cutting too low exposes the soil and weakens the grass, making it harder to recover in spring.

Neglecting Edges – Even if you’re mowing less, keep lawn edges trimmed for a polished look.

Additional Winter Lawn Care Tips

Fertilise Early – Apply a slow-release fertiliser in late autumn to give your lawn the nutrients it needs through winter.
Aerate the Soil – Compacted soil can prevent water and nutrients from reaching the roots. Aerate your lawn if needed.
Water Sparingly – Grass needs less water in winter, but don’t let it dry out completely. Water only during extended dry periods.

Need a Hand This Winter?

Let us handle your winter mowing schedule so you don’t have to worry about it. Whether you need a one-off tidy-up or regular maintenance, Order of the Lawn has you covered.

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