should i mow before applying weed and feed

OP Authors 2025

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16-03-2025

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To Mow or Not to Mow Before Weed & Feed? The Great Lawn Care Debate

The annual spring ritual: tackling weeds before they take over your beautiful lawn. Weed and feed products promise a convenient solution, but a crucial question often arises: should you mow before applying? The answer, as with many lawn care questions, is nuanced. Let's break down the pros and cons to help you decide what's best for your lawn.

Arguments for Mowing Before Applying Weed & Feed:

• Better Product Penetration: A freshly cut lawn presents a cleaner surface. This allows the weed and feed granules to make better contact with the soil, promoting more even distribution and potentially better weed control. High grass can shield weeds, preventing the herbicide from reaching its target.

• Improved Absorption: Short grass allows for better absorption of the weed and feed solution. This is especially important for granular products, which need to reach the soil to be effective.

• Easier Application: Mowing beforehand makes it easier to see exactly where you're applying the product, preventing overlapping or missed spots. This leads to a more efficient and even application, maximizing your product's effectiveness.

• Reduced Risk of Clogging: Tall grass can clog spreader mechanisms, leading to uneven application and potentially damaging your equipment.

Arguments Against Mowing Before Applying Weed & Feed:

• Stress on the Lawn: Frequent mowing can stress your lawn, especially if you're already dealing with weed pressure. Adding the stress of a weed and feed application on top of this could potentially weaken the grass further.

• Increased Weed Seed Germination: Mowing can disturb the soil, potentially bringing weed seeds to the surface and encouraging germination. This could lead to a temporary increase in weed growth before the weed and feed takes effect.

• Timing Constraints: Mowing and applying weed and feed on the same day can be time-consuming, especially for larger lawns.

The Verdict: It Depends!

The ideal approach depends on several factors:

• Grass Height: If your grass is significantly tall (over 4 inches), mowing beforehand is generally recommended.

• Weed Pressure: If you have a severe weed infestation, mowing might be beneficial to ensure better herbicide contact.

• Product Type: Some weed and feed products are designed to work with taller grass, so always check the product label for specific instructions.

• Lawn Health: If your lawn is already stressed, you might consider delaying mowing until after the weed and feed application.

Best Practices Regardless of Your Choice:

• Read the Label: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
• Water Appropriately: Water your lawn after applying weed and feed, according to product instructions. This helps activate the product and promotes better absorption.
• Avoid Overapplication: Applying too much product can damage your lawn. Use a spreader calibrated for even distribution.
• Observe Your Lawn: Monitor your lawn for any adverse effects after application.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to mow before applying weed and feed is a personal one, influenced by your specific lawn conditions and the products you're using. Careful observation and adherence to product instructions will help you achieve a healthy, weed-free lawn.