Maintaining a pristine lawn is a source of pride for many homeowners. Achieving that perfectly manicured look involves more than just running a lawnmower over the grass. Two crucial elements are edging and mowing, but the question remains: which should come first? This seemingly simple decision can significantly impact the final result and the overall health of your lawn. Let’s delve into the details and uncover the optimal approach to achieving a professional-grade lawn.
The Case for Edging First
Edging before mowing is a popular approach, favored by many landscaping professionals. The logic behind this order lies in the cleanup process and the desired aesthetic.
Creating a Clean Edge
One of the primary benefits of edging first is that it creates a clear, defined edge along sidewalks, driveways, and flowerbeds. This sharp line provides a visual guide for mowing, making it easier to achieve a uniform cut. A well-defined edge acts like a frame, enhancing the overall appearance of the lawn.
By establishing the edge before mowing, you ensure that the mower blade doesn’t accidentally overlap onto hard surfaces, which can damage both the mower and the hardscape. This reduces the risk of chipping concrete or scratching asphalt.
Simplifying Cleanup
Edging often produces debris like grass clippings, dirt, and small stones. When you edge first, these materials are dispersed onto the lawn. Mowing immediately after effectively mulches and redistributes these clippings, returning valuable nutrients to the soil.
This eliminates the need for a separate cleanup step specifically for the edging debris. The mower essentially acts as a sweeper, leaving a cleaner and more polished finish. This efficiency saves time and effort.
Addressing Overgrowth
In areas where grass has significantly encroached onto sidewalks or driveways, edging first helps to remove the bulk of the overgrowth. This makes it easier for the mower to achieve a consistent cut along the edges during the subsequent mowing process.
Imagine a scenario where grass has grown several inches over the edge of a walkway. Trying to mow this overgrown area without edging first would result in an uneven and messy cut. Edging first creates a level playing field for the mower.
The Case for Mowing First
While edging first has its advantages, there are compelling reasons to consider mowing before edging. This approach can be particularly beneficial in certain situations and with specific types of grass.
Identifying Problem Areas
Mowing first allows you to assess the overall lawn condition and identify any areas that require special attention. For instance, you might discover patches of weeds, uneven terrain, or areas where the grass is particularly dense.
By mowing first, you gain a clearer picture of the lawn’s needs before committing to edging. This allows you to adjust your edging technique and focus on specific areas that require more precision or care. This also helps in identifying areas that need additional treatments such as fertilization or weed control.
Preventing Scalping
Scalping occurs when the mower blades cut too low, removing the grass down to the soil. This can be a particular issue on uneven terrain or when mowing over edges. Mowing first can help to minimize scalping, especially if you’re using a mower with adjustable cutting heights.
By mowing the main portion of the lawn first, you establish a consistent cutting height. This reduces the likelihood of the mower blade dipping too low when you subsequently edge along the perimeter. Scalping is unsightly and can damage the grass, so preventing it is crucial.
Conserving Energy
For some, especially those with larger properties, the argument for mowing first hinges on efficiency. Completing the bulk of the work – mowing – before focusing on the detail work – edging – can feel more productive.
From a purely physical standpoint, tackling the larger task first can conserve energy for the more precise and often more physically demanding task of edging. This approach allows you to focus your energy on creating a perfect edge after the bulk of the work is complete.
Factors to Consider When Deciding
The optimal approach – edging first or mowing first – isn’t always clear-cut. Several factors can influence your decision, including the type of grass, the size of your lawn, and your personal preferences.
Type of Grass
Different types of grass respond differently to mowing and edging. Some grasses, like Bermuda grass, are known for their aggressive growth and tendency to creep onto hard surfaces. In such cases, edging first might be more beneficial to maintain a clean edge.
Other grasses, like fescue, are less aggressive and may not require frequent edging. In these situations, mowing first might be sufficient to maintain a tidy appearance. Consider the growth habits of your specific grass type when deciding on the order of operations.
Size of Lawn
The size of your lawn can also influence your decision. For smaller lawns, the difference between edging first and mowing first might be negligible. However, for larger lawns, the efficiency gains of either approach can become more significant.
If you have a large lawn with extensive edging areas, the cleanup benefits of edging first might outweigh the potential benefits of mowing first. Conversely, if you have a large lawn with minimal edging, mowing first might be the more efficient option.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the best approach is often the one that you find most comfortable and effective. Experiment with both methods to see which one yields the best results for your lawn and suits your personal preferences.
Some people simply prefer the visual appeal of a freshly edged lawn, while others prioritize efficiency and prefer to get the bulk of the mowing done first. There’s no right or wrong answer, so find what works best for you.
Tools of the Trade: Essential Edging and Mowing Equipment
Regardless of whether you choose to edge first or mow first, having the right equipment is essential for achieving professional-looking results. Let’s take a look at some of the key tools you’ll need.
Lawn Mowers
Choosing the right lawn mower is crucial for achieving a clean and even cut. There are several types of lawn mowers available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Rotary Mowers: These are the most common type of lawn mower, known for their versatility and ability to handle various grass types and terrain.
- Reel Mowers: Reel mowers provide a cleaner cut than rotary mowers and are ideal for fine grasses.
- Robotic Mowers: These automated mowers can save you time and effort by mowing your lawn on a regular schedule.
Consider the size of your lawn, the type of grass, and your budget when choosing a lawn mower.
Edgers
Edgers are designed to create a clean, defined edge along sidewalks, driveways, and flowerbeds. There are several types of edgers available, including manual edgers, power edgers, and string trimmers.
- Manual Edgers: These are the simplest and most affordable type of edger, but they require more physical effort.
- Power Edgers: Power edgers are more efficient than manual edgers and are ideal for larger lawns with extensive edging areas.
- String Trimmers: String trimmers can be used to edge along sidewalks and driveways, but they may not provide as clean of an edge as dedicated edgers.
Choose an edger that is comfortable to use and that suits the size and complexity of your edging areas.
Safety Gear
Protecting yourself while mowing and edging is essential. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Ear protection is also recommended, especially when using power equipment.
Wear sturdy shoes to protect your feet and avoid loose clothing that could get caught in the machinery. Following these safety precautions will help to prevent accidents and injuries.
Achieving the Perfect Lawn: Tips and Techniques
Beyond the question of edging first or mowing first, there are several other tips and techniques that can help you achieve a perfectly manicured lawn.
Proper Mowing Height
Setting the correct mowing height is crucial for maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn. As a general rule, it’s best to mow high, removing no more than one-third of the grass blade at a time.
Mowing too low can stress the grass, making it more susceptible to disease and pests. It can also lead to scalping, which is unsightly and can damage the grass. Adjust your mowing height based on the type of grass and the desired appearance.
Sharp Blades
Dull mower blades can tear the grass, leaving it ragged and brown. Sharp blades, on the other hand, provide a clean cut, promoting healthy growth and a vibrant green color.
Sharpen your mower blades regularly, or replace them if they are damaged. A sharp blade will not only improve the appearance of your lawn but will also reduce the amount of stress on the grass.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your lawn healthy and attractive. This includes fertilizing, watering, and controlling weeds and pests.
Fertilize your lawn according to the type of grass and the soil conditions. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Control weeds and pests promptly to prevent them from damaging the grass.
In Conclusion: The Answer Depends
Ultimately, there is no single “right” answer to the question of whether to edge first or mow first. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on a variety of factors, including the type of grass, the size of your lawn, and your personal preferences.
Experiment with both methods to see which one works best for you. Pay attention to the results and adjust your technique as needed. With a little practice and attention to detail, you can achieve a perfectly manicured lawn that you can be proud of. The key is consistency and a willingness to adapt your approach based on the specific needs of your lawn.
Why is there a debate about whether to edge before or after mowing?
The debate stems from practical considerations regarding efficiency and the desired aesthetic. Some argue that edging before mowing allows the mower to pick up the loose clippings created by the edger, resulting in a cleaner look and reducing the need for a second cleanup pass. This method can be particularly beneficial when dealing with thicker grass types or overgrown edges, making the mowing process smoother and potentially preventing the mower from getting bogged down.
Conversely, others advocate for mowing first because the mower creates a defined line that serves as a guide for the edger. This approach can lead to a straighter, more consistent edge, especially for those less experienced with using an edger. Furthermore, mowing first allows you to assess the overall lawn height and adjust your edging depth accordingly, ensuring a uniform and professional finish. The decision often boils down to personal preference and the specific characteristics of your lawn and equipment.
What are the advantages of edging before mowing?
Edging before mowing allows the mower to act as a cleanup crew. The loose grass and debris kicked up by the edger are then easily collected by the mower as you pass over the newly edged area. This approach minimizes the amount of post-edging cleanup required, saving time and effort, especially for larger lawns or those with particularly messy edges. It also helps prevent the spread of weeds and grass clippings onto sidewalks and driveways.
Another advantage is that it can make mowing easier, especially if the edges are overgrown. By trimming the edges first, you create a smoother path for the mower, reducing the risk of the mower getting caught or struggling to cut through thick patches of grass. This can improve the overall quality of the cut and reduce wear and tear on your mower, ultimately extending its lifespan. It can also make the entire process more efficient, getting the job done faster.
What are the advantages of mowing before edging?
Mowing before edging provides a clear visual guide for the edger. The mower establishes a defined line along the lawn’s edge, making it easier to follow a straight and consistent path with the edger. This is particularly helpful for achieving a crisp, professional look and is especially beneficial for those who are new to edging or have difficulty maintaining a steady hand. It also prevents you from accidentally over-edging and damaging the lawn.
Furthermore, mowing first allows you to assess the overall lawn height before deciding how deep to edge. This ensures that the edged area blends seamlessly with the rest of the lawn and prevents the creation of an uneven or stepped appearance. By adjusting the edging depth to match the mowed height, you can create a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing result, showcasing a well-maintained and polished lawn.
Are there any specific grass types where edging before or after is more beneficial?
For thicker, more aggressive grass types like Zoysia or Bermuda, edging before mowing can be particularly advantageous. These grasses tend to spread quickly and can create dense, overgrown edges that are difficult for a mower to manage. Pre-edging helps to loosen this dense growth, making it easier for the mower to cut through it cleanly and prevent the mower from getting bogged down.
Conversely, for finer, less aggressive grass types such as Fescue or Kentucky Bluegrass, mowing before edging might be more suitable. These grasses typically create less dense edges, making it easier to follow the mower’s line with the edger. Also, if these grasses are stressed from drought, mowing before will allow you to see any thin or bare spots that should not be edged as deeply, preventing further damage.
Does the type of edging equipment I use impact the decision of when to edge?
Yes, the type of edging equipment significantly impacts the decision. If you are using a string trimmer as an edger, mowing beforehand might be more practical. A string trimmer often requires a visible line to follow, and the mowed edge provides that guidance. Using a string trimmer before mowing can be less precise and may result in a less defined edge, leading to a less professional-looking finish.
However, if you’re using a dedicated blade edger, edging before mowing can be more efficient. Blade edgers are designed to create a clean, defined edge, even through thick grass. By edging first, the blade edger can effectively cut through the overgrown edges, and the mower can then easily pick up the resulting clippings. The increased power and precision of a blade edger makes it a good companion for pre-mowing edging.
Does the frequency of lawn maintenance influence when I should edge?
Yes, the frequency of lawn maintenance plays a significant role. If you maintain your lawn regularly, edging after mowing is generally sufficient. Frequent mowing keeps the edges relatively neat, so the primary purpose of edging becomes defining the line and tidying up any stray blades. This allows you to easily follow the mowed line with your edger and maintain a consistent, polished look.
However, if you neglect your lawn for extended periods, edging before mowing becomes more beneficial. When the edges become overgrown and unruly, pre-edging helps to tame the wild growth, making the mowing process easier and preventing the mower from struggling. This approach is particularly useful in situations where the lawn’s edges have encroached onto sidewalks or driveways, as it allows you to reclaim the desired boundaries before mowing the remaining area.
Are there any safety considerations when edging before or after mowing?
Regardless of whether you edge before or after mowing, safety should always be a top priority. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, and closed-toe shoes. Be mindful of your surroundings and ensure that children and pets are kept at a safe distance from the operating equipment. Also, check the area for any rocks, debris, or hidden obstacles that could be ejected by the edger or mower.
When edging, be careful to maintain a stable stance and avoid overreaching or bending excessively. Use caution when operating the equipment near hard surfaces, such as sidewalks and driveways, as the blades can be damaged by striking these surfaces. Always turn off the equipment and disconnect the power source before performing any maintenance or adjustments, and never attempt to clear obstructions while the equipment is running. Following these precautions helps minimize the risk of accidents and ensures a safe lawn care experience.