Maintaining a pristine lawn involves a series of tasks, each contributing to its overall health and aesthetic appeal. Among these, mowing and edging stand out as crucial. But a common question plagues homeowners and lawn care enthusiasts alike: should you mow before or after edging? The answer, as with many aspects of lawn care, isn’t always straightforward and depends on various factors. Let’s delve deep into this debate, exploring the pros and cons of each approach to help you achieve the perfect lawn.
Understanding the Basics: Mowing and Edging
Before diving into the sequence, let’s define what mowing and edging entail. Mowing, as you know, involves cutting the grass to a uniform height using a lawnmower. This promotes healthy growth, prevents weed infestations, and enhances the lawn’s appearance.
Edging, on the other hand, focuses on defining the boundaries of your lawn. It creates clean, crisp lines along sidewalks, driveways, flower beds, and other hardscapes. Edging provides a polished and professional look, separating the lawn from surrounding areas and preventing grass from encroaching on unwanted spaces.
The Case for Mowing Before Edging
Many lawn care professionals advocate for mowing before edging, and for good reason. This approach offers several advantages.
Efficiency and Debris Management
Mowing first allows you to collect the majority of grass clippings with the mower’s bagger or mulching system. This reduces the amount of debris scattered along the edges of your lawn, making the subsequent edging process cleaner and more efficient. You won’t have to worry about stepping on or kicking around freshly cut grass while trying to create a neat edge.
Think of it this way: mowing acts as a pre-cleaning step, removing the bulk of the mess before you focus on the finer details. This saves time and effort in the long run.
Clear Visibility for Edging
When you mow first, you create a clear line of sight for edging. The shorter grass height makes it easier to see the edge of the lawn and guide your edger accurately. This is particularly beneficial if your lawn is uneven or if the edge is not clearly defined.
A well-mowed lawn provides a visual guide, ensuring that you create a consistent and even edge. This results in a more professional and polished finish.
Reduced Edger Clogging
Mowing before edging can also help prevent your edger from clogging. When grass is overgrown and thick, it can easily get tangled in the edger’s blade, causing it to stall or become inefficient. Mowing first reduces the density of the grass, making it easier for the edger to cut through it without getting clogged.
This not only saves time and effort but also prolongs the life of your edger by reducing strain on the motor and blade.
Easier Cleanup
After mowing and edging, cleanup is inevitable. However, mowing first streamlines the process. As mentioned before, the mower collects most of the grass clippings. The edging process then produces a smaller amount of debris, which is easier to sweep or blow away.
This approach minimizes the amount of time spent cleaning up and leaves you with a tidy and well-manicured lawn.
The Argument for Edging Before Mowing
While mowing before edging is often preferred, there are situations where edging before mowing might be more advantageous.
Handling Overgrown Lawns
If your lawn is significantly overgrown, edging before mowing can be a more practical approach. In these cases, the grass along the edges may be particularly long and dense, making it difficult for the mower to cut effectively. Edging first can trim this overgrown grass, making it easier for the mower to achieve a clean and even cut.
Imagine trying to mow through a thick patch of overgrown grass along a sidewalk. The mower might struggle, leaving behind uneven patches. Edging first removes this obstacle, allowing the mower to glide smoothly along the edge.
Defining Edges in Advance
Edging before mowing can also be useful when you want to clearly define the edges of your lawn before cutting the grass. This is particularly helpful if you are creating new edges or reshaping existing ones. Edging first allows you to establish the desired boundaries, ensuring that the mower follows the correct path.
This approach is similar to sketching out a design before filling in the details. Edging defines the framework, while mowing provides the finishing touches.
Addressing Specific Weed Issues
Sometimes, weeds tend to grow more densely along the edges of lawns. Edging before mowing can help target these weeds more effectively. By trimming the weeds along the edges first, you can prevent them from spreading further into the lawn during the mowing process.
This can be particularly useful for controlling invasive weeds that are difficult to eradicate. Edging provides a focused approach to weed management, preventing them from taking over your lawn.
Factors Influencing Your Decision
The best approach – mowing before or after edging – ultimately depends on several factors specific to your lawn and your personal preferences.
Lawn Size and Layout
The size and layout of your lawn can influence your decision. For smaller lawns with simple layouts, the order may not matter as much. However, for larger lawns with complex shapes and numerous obstacles, mowing before edging might be more efficient.
Grass Type and Height
The type of grass you have and its current height can also play a role. Tall, thick grasses may benefit from edging before mowing, while shorter, finer grasses might be better suited to mowing first.
Frequency of Lawn Maintenance
If you maintain your lawn regularly, mowing before edging is generally the preferred approach. However, if you let your lawn grow for extended periods, edging before mowing might be necessary to tackle overgrown edges.
Personal Preference and Equipment
Ultimately, your personal preference and the type of equipment you have available will also influence your decision. Some people simply prefer one method over the other, while others find that certain equipment works better in a particular sequence.
Tips for Effective Mowing and Edging
Regardless of whether you choose to mow before or after edging, here are some tips to ensure effective lawn care:
- Sharpen your blades: Sharp mower and edger blades are essential for a clean cut and prevent tearing the grass.
- Mow at the correct height: Avoid cutting the grass too short, as this can damage the lawn and make it more susceptible to weeds and diseases.
- Overlap your passes: When mowing, overlap each pass slightly to ensure that no grass is missed.
- Use a string trimmer: A string trimmer can be used to reach areas that the mower cannot, such as around trees, shrubs, and fences.
- Wear safety gear: Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when mowing and edging.
Choosing the Right Tools for the Job
The equipment you use significantly impacts the efficiency and effectiveness of your lawn care routine. Here’s a quick rundown of essential tools:
- Lawn Mower: Choose a mower that suits your lawn size and terrain – push, self-propelled, or riding mower. Consider electric, gas, or battery-powered options.
- Edger: Opt for a powered edger (gas or electric) for clean, defined edges. Manual edgers are suitable for smaller lawns or detail work.
- String Trimmer: Essential for trimming around obstacles and hard-to-reach areas.
- Leaf Blower: Simplifies cleanup after mowing and edging.
- Safety Gear: Always prioritize safety with glasses, gloves, and ear protection.
Mastering the Art of Lawn Edging
Achieving perfectly edged lawns isn’t just about the right tools; it’s about technique. Follow these steps for professional-looking results:
- Prepare the Area: Remove any debris (rocks, branches) from the edging area.
- Establish a Guideline: If needed, use a string line to ensure a straight edge.
- Begin Edging: Hold the edger firmly and walk at a steady pace along the edge. Maintain a consistent depth.
- Overlap Slightly: Overlap each pass slightly to ensure a clean cut.
- Clean Up: Sweep or blow away any debris from the edging process.
Beyond Mowing and Edging: Holistic Lawn Care
While mowing and edging are vital, they’re just components of a comprehensive lawn care strategy. Don’t neglect these essential practices:
- Watering: Water deeply and infrequently to promote healthy root growth.
- Fertilizing: Apply fertilizer according to your grass type and soil conditions.
- Weed Control: Implement a pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control program.
- Aeration: Aerate your lawn annually to improve soil drainage and air circulation.
- Thatch Control: Manage thatch buildup to prevent problems with water and nutrient absorption.
- Soil Testing: Conduct regular soil tests to determine nutrient deficiencies and pH imbalances.
Troubleshooting Common Lawn Problems
Even with the best maintenance, lawn problems can arise. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
- Brown Patches: Could indicate disease, insect infestation, or improper watering. Investigate the cause and treat accordingly.
- Weeds: Identify the weed type and apply the appropriate herbicide.
- Thin or Bare Spots: Overseed bare spots and address underlying issues like soil compaction or nutrient deficiencies.
- Fungal Diseases: Improve air circulation, avoid overwatering, and apply a fungicide if necessary.
- Insect Infestations: Identify the insect and apply an appropriate insecticide.
In conclusion, the decision to mow before or after edging is not a one-size-fits-all answer. Consider the specific conditions of your lawn, your personal preferences, and the tools you have available to determine the most effective approach for achieving a perfectly manicured lawn. The key is to be consistent with your lawn care routine and to address any issues promptly to maintain a healthy and beautiful lawn.
Frequently Asked Question 1: Why is the order of mowing and edging even important?
The order in which you mow and edge your lawn significantly impacts the final appearance and overall health of your grass. Mowing before edging allows the mower to catch any grass blades that might be bent over onto the sidewalk or driveway. This prevents the edger from simply pushing those blades aside and leaving an uneven cut. Similarly, mowing first helps remove long, unkempt grass, providing a clearer line for edging and reducing the chance of the edger getting clogged.
Furthermore, consider the debris generated by each activity. Mowing tends to scatter clippings, while edging produces a more concentrated line of cut grass and soil. Edging after mowing means you’re less likely to fling clippings onto a freshly edged border, keeping your lawn looking cleaner for longer. This also reduces the need for additional cleanup after completing both tasks.
Frequently Asked Question 2: What are the benefits of mowing before edging?
Mowing before edging ensures a cleaner cut along the edges of your lawn. The mower effectively removes the bulk of the grass, leaving a more defined line for the edger to follow. This prevents the edger from struggling with thicker, overgrown grass and delivers a more professional and crisp look to your lawn’s borders.
Additionally, mowing first makes the edging process more efficient. By removing excess grass, you minimize the amount of material the edger has to process, reducing the chances of the edger getting clogged or requiring multiple passes. This saves time and effort, allowing you to achieve a well-defined edge with less work.
Frequently Asked Question 3: Are there any disadvantages to mowing before edging?
One potential disadvantage of mowing before edging is the potential for clippings to be scattered onto the freshly edged area. While mowing generally removes the bulk of the grass, some clippings might still land on the border, requiring additional cleanup. This can be particularly noticeable if you have a darker mulch or stone border against a lighter-colored lawn.
Another minor inconvenience is the potential for the edger to kick up small stones or debris onto the mowed lawn. This is more of an issue if your edging path is adjacent to a gravel driveway or stone border. You may need to make a quick sweep to remove any stray debris after edging.
Frequently Asked Question 4: What are the benefits of edging before mowing?
Edging before mowing can be beneficial in specific situations, particularly when dealing with very overgrown edges. Edging first allows you to establish a clear boundary and remove any significant overgrowth that might interfere with the mower’s ability to cut cleanly along the edge. This is particularly helpful if you’ve neglected edging for a while and the grass has grown significantly onto sidewalks or driveways.
Moreover, some argue that edging before mowing can help prevent clippings from being thrown onto your hardscapes. By cutting the edge first, you create a “barrier” of sorts, potentially minimizing the amount of grass that the mower throws onto sidewalks or patios. However, this benefit is often minimal and depends on the type of mower used and the direction of mowing.
Frequently Asked Question 5: Are there any disadvantages to edging before mowing?
The primary disadvantage of edging before mowing is that the mower may not effectively pick up all the grass blades bent over the edge. The edger might simply push these blades aside without cutting them, leaving an uneven and less-than-perfect finish after mowing. This results in a less professional appearance compared to mowing before edging.
Furthermore, edging first can lead to the edger being overworked and potentially damaged. Cutting through large amounts of grass and soil can put a strain on the edger’s motor and blade, potentially shortening its lifespan. It’s generally more efficient and gentler on the equipment to mow first and then use the edger for finishing touches.
Frequently Asked Question 6: Does the type of lawn affect the best order for mowing and edging?
Yes, the type of lawn can influence the optimal order. For lawns with dense, fine-bladed grasses, mowing before edging is generally recommended. The mower can easily cut these grasses, creating a clean line for the edger. Edging after mowing refines the edge and removes any stray blades, resulting in a manicured look.
However, for lawns with coarse or sprawling grasses, such as St. Augustine or Zoysia, edging before mowing might be more beneficial if the edges are severely overgrown. These grasses tend to spread quickly and can be difficult for the mower to handle along the edges. Edging first can help create a more manageable area for the mower to work with.
Frequently Asked Question 7: What’s the most important thing to remember when mowing and edging, regardless of the order?
Regardless of whether you choose to mow before or after edging, the most important factor is to maintain sharp blades on both your mower and edger. Sharp blades ensure a clean, precise cut, which reduces stress on the grass, minimizes tearing, and promotes healthier growth. Dull blades can tear the grass, leading to browning and increased susceptibility to disease.
Finally, consistency is key. Regular mowing and edging, performed in either order, will maintain a well-groomed lawn and prevent overgrowth. Establishing a routine will make each task easier and more efficient, regardless of the order you choose, leading to a consistently beautiful lawn.