As the air cools and you put your flip-flops away, it’s time to decide when to stop mowing your lawn before winter. Nailing that perfect springtime lawn depends on the weather and how well you care for your grass in the fall.
So before storing your mower in the shed, discover why properly timing your last trim in the fall can make a difference in the health of your lawn.
Grass Types in Kansas
Kansas is known for its scorching summers, frosty winters, and considerable temperature fluctuations year-round. While the Southern part of the state provides an ideal environment for warm-season grasses, the Northern regions are better suited for cool-season varieties.
On the other hand, Central Kansas lies in the transition zone, where both grass types can thrive. This allows more wiggle room when picking the best grass seed for your lawn.
If you’re new to lawn care, distinguishing between cool-season and warm-season grasses can be daunting. Although they share characteristics and many maintenance tips apply to both types, there are also some differences to consider.
Warm-Season Grasses
Warm-season grasses thrive when temperatures are between 80 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. They start growing in the spring and go dormant in the late fall. Most cultivars are drought- and heat-tolerant and grow best in full sun, though St. Augustinegrass grows well in partial shade.
Cool-Season Grasses
These grasses are hardy and adapted to temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Cool-season grass tolerates cold temperatures, but as soon as frost sets in, it goes dormant and turns yellow until spring. They have two growing seasons, spring and fall, and they require more fertilizers than warm-season varieties.
When to Stop Mowing the Lawn Before Winter
In Kansas, most people stop mowing when the seasons change. As temperatures fall, grass growth slows, and you’ll find yourself mowing less frequently. In fact, the last mow of the year should take place around late October or early November.
When your lawn starts looking like it’s hitting the snooze button or taking a breather, it’s time to put your mower away. Here are some telltale signs you shouldn’t ignore:
- Going longer between mowing sessions
- Yellow or tan grass
- Footprints lingering on the grass
- Dry, brittle grass texture
- Less watering
- Fall weeds spring up
Pro Tip: Watch the weather closely. Short spurts of warmer weather can activate sporadic growth that you’ll have to address.
How High to Cut Your Grass for Winter
The cold Kansas winters can make your grass vulnerable, and leaving it longer can help protect the crown and insulate it against cold temperatures. To minimize stress on your grass and promote healthier springtime growth, consider these winter mowing heights:
| Grass Type | Recommended Winter Mowing Height |
| Fine Fescue, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass | 2.5 – 3 inches |
| Kentucky Bluegrass, Buffalograss | 2 – 3 inches |
| Zoysiagrass | 1 – 2 inches |
| Bermudagrass | 1 – 1.5 inches |
How to Maintain a Healthy Lawn
Despite the onset of winter, your month-to-month lawn care routine shouldn’t come to a halt. Here are some excellent ways to protect your lawn from damage and promote its health and vitality through winter.
- Remove snow to prevent diseases like snow mold and other fungi.
- Prevent ice damage by applying mulch or straw to vulnerable areas in your yard to insulate the grass and soil.
- Inspect your lawn for pests and diseases. Don’t let your guard down in winter, as pests and diseases can still damage your lawn. At the first hint of trouble, take appropriate measures or contact a local pro for guidance.
- Aerate cool-season grass in the late fall to prevent soil compaction and improve air and water circulation.
- Fertilize your lawn to keep the grass roots healthy during dormancy and ensure a quicker green-up in the spring.
- Reduce foot traffic to prevent compaction and stress.
FAQ About When to Stop Mowing Your Kansas Lawn
What temperature is too cold to mow grass?
Don’t mow if it is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for mowing is 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
What are the dangers of mowing in the winter?
Frozen grass blades are immovable. Activities such as walking or mowing break grass blades, damaging your lawn.
How do I winterize my lawn mower?
As you prepare for the cold months ahead, winterizing your lawn mower is an important lawn care step you shouldn’t skip. Here are some ways to do that:
- Burn off fuel
- Change your spark plug and air filter
- Sharpen and balance the blade
- Scrape and clean the undercarriage
- Change the oil
Give Your Lawn the Best Chance
Winters in Kansas can pack quite a punch, but your lawn doesn’t have to suffer. Learning when to call it quits on mowing can make all the difference.
If lawn care stresses you out or time simply isn’t on your side, you have options. Let a LawnStarter Pro take the reins. Whether you need help fertilizing, aerating, or dethatching a local pro can keep your lawn looking fantastic so you can spend your time doing what you love.
Main Photo Credit: Doug Kerr / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
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