Gardeners everywhere face the challenge of maintaining a neat lawn despite unpredictable weather and damp conditions. If you’re left wondering, “Can you cut wet grass?”, you’re not alone.
At Ryobi, we know that sometimes waiting for a perfectly dry day isn’t an option - so we’ve put together this FAQ guide to help you understand when and how to cut wet grass safely and effectively.
Can You Cut Wet Grass?
The short answer: yes, you can cut wet grass, but it’s usually better to wait for drier conditions when possible.
Is it the best idea to mow wet grass? We’d wait. Wet grass blades tend to bend and clump, which can lead to uneven cuts and clogged mower decks. However, if your lawn is growing rapidly or you have an event coming up, mowing wet grass with the right tools can help you keep your garden looking sharp.
Should You Cut Wet Grass?
Not really. Wet grass is slippery, making mowing risky, and can also damage your lawn and mower. Wet grass blades are floppy and less rigid, meaning a lawn mower blade struggles to lift and cut them cleanly. This can result in tearing rather than shearing, leaving frayed ends that could turn brown, along with potentially creating an uneven appearance. The other issue here is that torn grass is more susceptible to fungal diseases.
There are situations where we would always recommend waiting until the ground is dry:
- Active rainfall: If it’s raining at the time you’re looking to mow the lawn, you should definitely wait, especially with any electric mower.
- Really long and wet grass: If the grass you’re cutting it really long, this may overwhelm even the best precautions.
- Thunder & lightning: In these conditions, it’s always best to wait.
- Slopes: The task of mowing in the damp weather becomes significantly more dangerous when inclines are involved due to the risk of slipping and losing control.
However, sometimes weather and timing leave no choice. When you need to cut wet grass, it’s important to adjust your technique and use the best equipment to avoid problems like turf damage, mower clogging, and safety hazards.
How to Cut Wet Grass the Right Way
If you must mow wet grass, here are some expert tips to follow:
- Raise the Cutting Height - Setting your mower to a higher cut prevents scalping the lawn and reduces the mower’s loa
- Use a Cordless Lawn Mower with Good Power - Cutting wet grass with an cordless mower is easier when you use a powerful battery designed for tough conditions - like the Ryobi 36V MAX POWER™ Brushless Lawn Mower. It delivers consistent performance even on damp grass without getting bogged down.
- Go Slow and Steady - Move at a slower pace to reduce clogging and give your mower time to cut effectively.
- Clean Your Mower Regularly - After mowing, remove the battery and clean the deck and blades to prevent rust and keep your mower working efficiently.
- Avoid Mowing on Saturated Ground - Mowing wet grass on waterlogged soil can cause compaction and damage to your lawn’s roots.
Can You Use a Trimmer on Wet Grass?
Many gardeners then ask, “Can you use a Trimmer on wet grass?”
The answer is yes, but with caution. Wet grass can stick to the Grass Trimmer line, making cutting less efficient and potentially clogging the tool.
If you’re trimming edges or patches that are too wet to mow, a cordless grass trimmer like the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Cordless Grass Trimmer is a great choice. For larger gardens we suggest the Ryobi 36V Max Power Cordless Grass Trimmer. Both offers cordless convenience and power to manage wet and thick grass, though you should keep the cutting height higher and work more slowly.
Can You Scarify Wet Grass?
Scarifying is the process of removing moss and thatch to improve lawn health. It’s generally not recommended to scarify when the lawn is wet because the soil is softer and more prone to damage. Wait until your lawn is dry or only slightly damp for best results.
Is It Safe to Cut Wet Grass with an Electric Mower?
With the right precautions, cutting wet grass with an electric mower is safe. Cordless electric mowers like Ryobi’s range are designed with safety features such as automatic shutoff and insulated batteries, making them suitable for damp conditions when used correctly. Always wear non-slip shoes, clear debris before mowing, and avoid standing on slippery slopes.
Benefits of Using Ryobi Cordless Lawn Tools on Wet Grass
Ryobi cordless tools give you the flexibility to mow, trim, and maintain your lawn regardless of changing weather. Their lightweight, cordless design reduces the risk of soil compaction and makes manoeuvring easier, especially on damp grass.
Plus, the ONE+™ battery system powers over 200 tools, so you can switch easily between mowers, grass trimmers, and leaf blowers to keep your lawn pristine.
Recommended Ryobi Tools for Wet Grass Maintenance
While cutting wet grass isn’t always ideal, with the right equipment and techniques, you can maintain a healthy lawn all year round. Use Ryobi’s cordless lawn care range to get the job done cleanly, safely, and with cordless convenience - rain or shine.
Explore Ryobi Cordless Lawn Tools