Maintaining a pristine lawn requires more than just running a mower across the grass. Edging and mowing are both crucial steps, but the order in which you perform them can significantly impact the final results. The question of whether to edge or mow first is a common one among homeowners, and while there’s no single “right” answer for everyone, understanding the pros and cons of each approach can help you achieve the best-looking lawn possible.
Understanding the Basics: Edging and Mowing Defined
Before diving into the debate, it’s important to clarify what we mean by edging and mowing. These are distinct lawn care tasks with different goals and equipment.
Edging involves creating a clean, defined border between your lawn and other surfaces, such as sidewalks, driveways, flower beds, and fences. This is typically done using a specialized tool called an edger, which can be manual or powered. Edgers cut vertically along the edge of the lawn, removing overgrown grass and creating a neat, crisp line. This process provides a polished and well-maintained appearance, preventing grass from encroaching onto paved areas or garden beds.
Mowing, on the other hand, is the process of cutting the grass blades to a uniform height using a lawn mower. Mowers come in various types, including push mowers, riding mowers, and robotic mowers. The primary purpose of mowing is to maintain a healthy and aesthetically pleasing lawn by promoting even growth and preventing the grass from becoming overgrown and unkempt. Regular mowing also helps to control weeds and encourages a denser, thicker turf.
The Case for Edging Before Mowing
Many lawn care professionals advocate for edging before mowing, citing several key advantages.
Achieving a Cleaner Cut
One of the main benefits of edging first is that it allows you to achieve a cleaner cut with your mower. When grass extends over the edges of sidewalks or driveways, it can be difficult for the mower to reach those areas effectively. By edging first, you remove this overgrowth, providing a clear path for the mower blades to follow. This results in a more uniform and professional-looking cut along the edges of your lawn.
Preventing Grass Clipping Scatter
Edging before mowing can also help to prevent grass clippings from being scattered onto sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds. When you mow along the edges of your lawn without edging first, the mower can often fling grass clippings onto these surfaces, creating a messy and unkempt appearance. By edging first, you remove the excess grass that is likely to be thrown by the mower, minimizing the amount of cleanup required afterward.
Saving Time and Effort
While it may seem counterintuitive, edging before mowing can actually save you time and effort in the long run. By removing the overgrowth along the edges of your lawn, you make it easier to mow those areas quickly and efficiently. This can reduce the overall time it takes to complete your lawn care routine. Furthermore, by preventing grass clipping scatter, you’ll spend less time cleaning up after mowing.
Improving the Overall Aesthetic
Perhaps the most compelling reason to edge before mowing is the significant improvement in the overall aesthetic of your lawn. A clean, well-defined edge creates a polished and professional look that instantly elevates the appearance of your property. When you combine this with a neatly mowed lawn, the result is a stunning landscape that is sure to impress. The contrast between the manicured lawn and the defined edges provides a visual appeal that is both pleasing and sophisticated.
The Case for Mowing Before Edging
While edging before mowing is a popular approach, there are also valid arguments for mowing first.
Dealing with Overgrown Lawns
If your lawn is particularly overgrown, mowing before edging might be the more practical choice. Trying to edge a lawn with very tall grass can be difficult and time-consuming. The edger may struggle to cut through the thick growth, and the results may be uneven. Mowing first helps to reduce the height of the grass, making it easier to edge afterward. This is especially important for lawns that have been neglected for an extended period.
Collecting Grass Clippings Efficiently
Mowing first allows you to collect the bulk of the grass clippings before edging. Many mowers are equipped with bagging systems that collect grass clippings as you mow. By mowing first, you can remove the majority of these clippings, reducing the amount of debris that is scattered when you edge. This can simplify the cleanup process and prevent clippings from accumulating on sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds.
Adapting to Specific Lawn Conditions
The best approach for your lawn may depend on specific conditions, such as the type of grass, the terrain, and the presence of obstacles. For example, if you have a lawn with a lot of uneven terrain or obstacles, such as trees or shrubs, mowing first may make it easier to navigate these areas. Additionally, certain types of grass may respond better to being mowed before edging, depending on their growth patterns and density.
Personal Preference and Routine
Ultimately, the decision of whether to mow or edge first may come down to personal preference and routine. Some homeowners simply prefer to mow first because it fits better into their existing lawn care schedule. Others may find that mowing first provides a better starting point for achieving the desired results. There’s no right or wrong answer, as long as you are happy with the final outcome.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Approach
Several factors can influence your decision on whether to edge or mow first. Consider these aspects to determine the best method for your situation.
The Condition of Your Lawn
Assess the current state of your lawn. Is it neatly maintained, or is it overgrown and unruly? Overgrown lawns typically benefit from mowing first to reduce the height of the grass before edging. Well-maintained lawns can often be edged before mowing for a cleaner, more precise finish. Consider how frequently you maintain your lawn, as more frequent maintenance might favor edging first for that clean cut.
The Type of Grass You Have
Different types of grass have different growth patterns. Some grasses, like Bermuda grass, tend to spread aggressively, requiring more frequent edging. Others, like fescue, are less prone to spreading. Understanding the growth habits of your grass can help you determine the best approach for maintaining a clean edge. Researching your grass type can prevent unnecessary effort and provide a more tailored lawn care routine.
The Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can also play a role in your decision. If the grass is wet, it may be more difficult to mow cleanly, and the mower may leave clumps of clippings. In this case, edging first may be a better option, as it can help to remove some of the excess moisture from the edges of the lawn. However, if the ground is very dry and hard, edging may be more difficult, and mowing first may be preferable.
The Type of Equipment You Use
The type of equipment you use can also influence your decision. If you have a high-quality edger, you may be able to achieve a cleaner cut by edging first. However, if your edger is old or dull, it may be more difficult to use, and mowing first may be a better option. Similarly, the type of mower you use can also affect the outcome. Mowers with bagging systems are better suited for mowing before edging, as they can collect the bulk of the grass clippings.
Your Physical Abilities
Consider your own physical abilities and limitations. Edging can be physically demanding, especially if you have a large lawn or if the edges are uneven. If you have back problems or other physical limitations, mowing first may be a more comfortable option. You can also consider using powered edging tools to reduce the physical strain. Taking your own physical condition into account can prevent injuries and ensure a more enjoyable lawn care experience.
Step-by-Step Guide: Edging Before Mowing
If you decide to edge before mowing, follow these steps for optimal results:
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Prepare your equipment: Make sure your edger is in good working condition, with a sharp blade and a full tank of fuel or a charged battery. Gather any necessary safety gear, such as safety glasses and gloves. A well-maintained edger will provide a cleaner and more efficient cut.
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Clear the edges: Remove any debris, such as rocks, sticks, or toys, from the edges of your lawn. This will help to prevent damage to your edger and ensure a smooth, even cut. Taking the time to clear the edges will also improve the overall appearance of your lawn.
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Edge along the borders: Start at one end of the lawn and carefully edge along the borders, maintaining a consistent depth and angle. Overlap each pass slightly to ensure a clean, uniform cut. Pay attention to any obstacles, such as trees or shrubs, and adjust your technique accordingly.
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Remove the debris: After edging, remove any loose grass clippings and debris from the edges of the lawn. You can use a broom, a leaf blower, or a rake to do this. This will help to prevent the clippings from being scattered by the mower.
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Mow the lawn: Once the edges are clean, mow the lawn as usual, following your preferred pattern and cutting height. Be sure to overlap each pass slightly to avoid leaving any uncut strips of grass. Ensure your mower blades are sharp for a clean cut.
Step-by-Step Guide: Mowing Before Edging
If you prefer to mow before edging, follow these steps:
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Prepare your equipment: Ensure your mower is in good working order, with sharp blades and a full tank of fuel or a charged battery. Gather any necessary safety gear, such as safety glasses and ear protection. Regularly sharpening your mower blades will promote a healthier and more attractive lawn.
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Mow the lawn: Mow the lawn as usual, following your preferred pattern and cutting height. Pay attention to the edges of the lawn, but don’t worry about getting a perfectly clean cut at this stage. Overlap each pass slightly to ensure even coverage.
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Remove grass clippings: If your mower has a bagging system, empty it regularly to prevent it from becoming too full. If you are not using a bagging system, consider raking or blowing the grass clippings off of sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds. Removing grass clippings promotes better air circulation and reduces the risk of disease.
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Edge along the borders: Once the lawn is mowed, carefully edge along the borders, removing any overhanging grass and creating a clean, defined edge. Maintain a consistent depth and angle, and overlap each pass slightly for a uniform cut.
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Clean up: After edging, remove any loose grass clippings and debris from the edges of the lawn. Use a broom, a leaf blower, or a rake to clear the area. This final cleanup will leave your lawn looking pristine and well-manicured.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Approach for Your Lawn
The question of whether to edge or mow first is ultimately a matter of personal preference and what works best for your specific lawn and circumstances. There are valid arguments for both approaches, and the ideal method may vary depending on factors such as the condition of your lawn, the type of grass you have, and the weather conditions.
Experiment with both methods to see which one produces the best results for your lawn. Pay attention to the cleanliness of the cut, the amount of cleanup required, and the overall aesthetic of your lawn. By considering these factors and following the step-by-step guides provided, you can develop a lawn care routine that will help you achieve a beautiful, well-manicured lawn that you can be proud of. Remember that consistent maintenance, regardless of the order, is key to a healthy and attractive lawn. Consider factors like your physical condition and equipment when deciding on the order for efficient lawn care.
Why is the order of edging and mowing important for lawn care?
The order in which you edge and mow your lawn can significantly impact its overall appearance and health. Edging first creates a clean, defined line that makes your lawn look meticulously maintained. This is especially important for curb appeal and creating a professional look for your property.
Furthermore, edging before mowing allows the mower to more easily pick up the clippings that fall onto the lawn from the edging process. This prevents those stray clippings from matting down against the edges, potentially contributing to thatch buildup or hindering grass growth along the perimeter of your lawn.
What are the benefits of edging your lawn before mowing?
Edging before mowing provides a cleaner, more polished look to your lawn. It establishes a clear separation between the grass and adjacent surfaces like sidewalks, driveways, and flowerbeds, creating a neat and manicured appearance that enhances the overall aesthetic of your property.
This method also helps to manage grass clippings more effectively. The mower can easily pick up the debris from edging, preventing it from becoming unsightly or hindering the growth of grass along the edges. This results in a healthier and more uniform lawn.
Are there any drawbacks to edging before mowing?
One potential drawback is that edging before mowing can be slightly more time-consuming, especially if your edging is extensive or the grass along the edges is thick and overgrown. You need to dedicate time to carefully define the borders before proceeding with the main mowing task.
Additionally, depending on the type of edger you use, edging can sometimes scatter debris onto the lawn. While the mower is meant to pick this up, it’s possible that some larger clumps or debris may be left behind, requiring a second pass with the mower or manual cleanup.
What tools are best suited for edging your lawn?
The best tools for edging depend on your lawn’s size, the type of edge you want to create, and your personal preference. For smaller lawns with well-defined edges, a manual edging tool, like a half-moon edger or a rotary edger, can be very effective and provide a precise cut.
For larger lawns or those with more overgrown edges, a powered edger, such as a gas-powered edger, electric edger, or string trimmer with an edging attachment, might be a better choice. These tools are more powerful and efficient for tackling tougher edging tasks.
How often should I edge my lawn?
The frequency of edging depends on how quickly your grass grows and the level of neatness you desire. Generally, edging every one to two weeks during the peak growing season is sufficient to maintain a clean and defined edge.
However, if you prefer a very sharp and precise edge, you may want to edge more frequently, perhaps every week. In the dormant season, when grass growth slows down, you can reduce the frequency of edging to once a month or even less.
Can I mow before edging if I’m short on time?
While it’s generally recommended to edge before mowing for the best results, you can certainly mow before edging if you’re short on time. In this case, focus on mowing the main areas of your lawn first to maintain its overall height and health.
You can then go back and edge later, even if it’s not immediately after mowing. While you might need to take extra care to clean up any stray clippings left behind by the edger, it’s still possible to achieve a presentable result.
Does the type of grass I have affect whether I should edge before or after mowing?
The type of grass can influence the best approach, although edging before mowing remains generally preferable. For grasses that spread aggressively, like Bermuda or St. Augustine, edging before mowing is particularly helpful in containing their growth and preventing them from encroaching onto sidewalks and driveways.
For slower-growing grasses, like fescue or zoysia, the impact of the order may be less noticeable, but edging before mowing still provides the cleanest look. Regardless of the grass type, consistent edging is key to maintaining a well-manicured lawn.