1. Push Reel Mowers
Eco-friendly, great for small gardens, and gentle on cool-season grasses.
Landscaping
- By Admin
- 19 May, 2025
- 7 min Read
Lawn Mowing Tips for Melbourne Gardens: Achieving a Healthy and Beautiful Lawn
In Melbourne, where the seasons can change in a single day, maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn is both an art and a science. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a weekend warrior, mowing your lawn correctly is one of the most crucial steps to ensure your garden looks its best year-round.
From understanding your grass type to timing your mowing sessions with Melbourne’s unpredictable weather, this guide provides everything you need to know to achieve a lush and beautiful lawn in this iconic Australian city.
Why Mowing Matters More Than You Think
Mowing isn’t just about keeping your lawn neat. It’s essential for:
- Encouraging denser growth
- Preventing weeds
- Improving drought tolerance
- Enhancing your home’s curb appeal
Done improperly, however, mowing can damage your grass, invite pests, and increase water consumption.
Understand Your Lawn Type: Warm- vs. Cool-Season Grasses
Melbourne lawns commonly feature cool-season grasses such as:
- Fescue
- Ryegrass
- Kentucky Bluegrass
In warmer northern suburbs or newer developments, you may also find:
- Buffalo
- Kikuyu
- Couch Grass
Knowing your grass type determines:
- How often you mow
- How high you cut
- What equipment to use
Lawn Mowing Tips for Melbourne’s Climate
1. Stick to the One-Third Rule
Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mow. Removing too much stresses the plant and reduces its photosynthetic ability
2. Adjust Your Mower Height Seasonally
- Spring: Begin with a slightly higher setting to encourage deeper roots.
- Summer: Keep grass longer to shade the soil and retain moisture.
- Autumn: Gradually lower the height to prepare for winter dormancy.
- Winter: Mowing may not be necessary unless there’s continued growth.
3. Mow When Grass Is Dry
Wet grass clumps, dulls mower blades, and can create an uneven cut. Late morning or early afternoon is ideal after the dew has dried.
4. Keep Your Blades Sharp
Dull blades tear grass rather than slicing it, causing brown tips and inviting disease. Sharpen your mower blades at least once per season.
5. Change Mowing Patterns
Avoid mowing in the same direction every time. Rotating patterns prevents soil compaction and keeps the grass growing upright.
6. Leave Clippings (Mulch Mowing)
Leaving short clippings on your lawn can return nutrients to the soil and improve moisture retention—especially beneficial in Melbourne’s dry summer months.
Frequency of Mowing in Melbourne
| Season | Mowing Frequency |
|---|---|
| Spring | Weekly |
| Summer | Every 1–2 weeks |
| Autumn | Every 2–3 weeks |
| Winter | Monthly or as needed |
Watering Before or After Mowing?
It’s best to water the lawn the day before mowing, not immediately before. Mowing dry grass ensures a clean cut. After mowing, wait a few hours before watering to avoid potential disease.
Avoiding Common Mowing Mistakes
- Scalping the Lawn: Cutting too low can expose soil, increase weeds, and stress the turf.
- Bagging Every Time: Unless your lawn is too long or wet, let clippings decompose on the lawn.
- Mowing with Dull Blades: Causes jagged edges and brown spots.
- Ignoring Safety Gear: Always wear sturdy shoes and eye protection, especially with petrol mowers.
Choosing the Right Lawn Mower for Melbourne Gardens
Depending on your lawn size and budget, you may choose from:
2. Electric Mowers (Corded or Battery)
Low maintenance, quiet, and ideal for mid-sized lawns.
3. Petrol Mowers
Powerful and durable—best for larger lawns or uneven terrain.
4. Robotic Lawn Mowers
A growing trend in Melbourne—automated, quiet, and efficient for tech-savvy gardeners.
When to Edge Your Lawn
Edging gives your lawn a polished look. For best results:
- Edge after mowing to maintain a crisp border.
- Use manual or electric edgers along driveways, paths, and garden beds.
Lawn Care Beyond Mowing
To support healthy mowing, consider:
- Aerating in autumn or spring to reduce compaction.
- Fertilising every 2–3 months using a lawn-specific formula.
- Top-dressing in spring with sand or compost to level the lawn and improve soil health.
Sustainable Lawn Practices for Melbourne
Given water restrictions and environmental concerns, consider:
- Drought-tolerant grasses
- Smart irrigation systems
- Rainwater collection for garden use
- Native grass alternatives
These options reduce your water bill and support Melbourne’s sustainability efforts.
FAQs: Lawn Mowing in Melbourne
Depending on your lawn size and budget, you may choose from:
Q1. What is the best height to mow grass in Melbourne?
For cool-season grasses, aim for 5–7 cm. In hot summers, keep grass slightly longer to shade the soil.
Q2. Can I mow after it rains?
Avoid it. Mowing wet grass leads to clumping, uneven cuts, and can damage your lawn and mower.
Q3. How often should I sharpen my mower blades?
Ideally once every 20–25 mowing hours or once per season.
Q4. Should I mow before or after fertilising?
Mow before fertilising to ensure the nutrients reach the soil.
Q5. Is it OK to mow during winter in Melbourne?
Only if the grass is actively growing. Most cool-season grasses go dormant in winter.