Don’t Put the Mower Away Just Yet: Why Fall Mowing Matters

As the weather cools and leaves begin to fall, many Iowa homeowners are tempted to tuck their mowers away for the year. But before you empty out the gas and roll your mower into storage, we have a word of advice: not so fast.

Keeping up with mowing a little longer, well into October or even early November, can make a big difference in how your lawn looks and grows next spring.

SEE ALSO: Why We Rake Leaves and Other Fall Must-Dos

Grass Keeps Growing (Even When It's Cool)

While summer’s heat has passed, your grass doesn’t stop growing immediately. Cool-season grasses common in Iowa, like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fescue, actually thrive in cooler temperatures. Fall’s combination of mild weather and moisture makes it one of the most active growing periods of the year. That means your lawn still needs regular mowing until growth truly slows or stops, usually after the first hard frost.

Why Fall Mowing Helps

Continuing to mow through fall offers several key benefits:

• Prevents matting and disease: When grass grows too tall before winter, it can bend, mat down, and trap moisture, creating the perfect environment for snow mold and other fungal diseases.

  
  

• Improves sunlight and airflow: Shorter grass allows sunlight to reach the crown of each blade, helping it store energy for spring growth.

  
  

• Encourages stronger roots: A consistent mowing routine supports healthy root development, giving your lawn the strength to handle harsh Iowa winters.

What's the Right Height for Fall Grass?

In the fall, aim to gradually lower your mowing height over the final few cuts. A good rule of thumb is to finish the season around 2.5 inches, short enough to prevent matting, but not so short that it stresses the grass. Make sure your mower blades are sharp for a clean cut.

Don't Forget the Leaves

Fallen leaves can suffocate grass if left to pile up, blocking sunlight and airflow. Instead of raking them all away, you can mulch light layers of leaves with your mower. The shredded material decomposes quickly, returning nutrients to the soil. If leaves are thick and wet, though, it’s best to rake or bag them before mowing.

Finish Strong with Fall Cleanup

Mowing isn’t the only fall lawn care to consider, now’s the perfect time for a fall fertilizer or aeration treatment. These services help your lawn recover from summer stress and build resilience for the cold months ahead.

At Tiger Pride Lawn Care, we’re here to make sure your yard finishes the season strong and wakes up ready for spring. Contact us to discuss your fall lawn care options today.