We’ve all asked ourselves: Should I mow first, then edge? Or do I start with the edges and then mow? Does it even make a difference? It’s a topic that sparks debate in lawn care circles, whether online or in person, and you'll likely find a mix of opinions. Some claim it’s a matter of preference, while others treat it as if it’s the lawn care equivalent of hanging toilet paper the "wrong" way. (In case you're wondering, the proper method is over, not under – a patented method from 124 years ago that you can’t argue with!)
In this blog, we’ll dive into the reasoning behind whether you should mow or edge your lawn first, and explore what might work best for you.
Let’s get straight to the point: the answer really depends on what suits you best and what logic you follow (though, as the saying goes, one person’s logic is another person’s madness). Ultimately, the order doesn’t impact the health of your lawn. However, it can affect the final look and neatness of your garden.
If you’re a lawn enthusiast with a sleek, low-cut lawn that you maintain meticulously – mowing frequently, perhaps even more than once a week – then mowing first is probably your preferred method. You’ll give your lawn a fresh cut, then finish it off with sharp, clean edges.
On the other hand, if you're like most homeowners who take pride in their patch but mow on a weekly basis – usually during the height of the growing season – then you might want to trim the edges first. Once the edges are neat and tidy, mow the lawn to clean up the rest. Some may even go the extra mile and tidy up with an edger to create those picture-perfect lines.
If you're after a streamlined routine, our recommendation would be to start with the whipper snipper (also known as the line trimmer) for the edges. Then, mow the lawn and, if you have one, finish with the edger. Finally, grab a blower and clear away any stray clippings from the driveway, footpaths, or any other areas where the cuttings have found their way. It's all about that crisp, tidy finish.
Some lawn care enthusiasts even like to trim the edges and blow away the clippings before mowing – whatever works best for you and gives you the desired results.
There are several variations of the "mow or edge first" process, and we’ve seen many recommended strategies over time. Some even go as far as doing the whole process in several stages:
Sounds exhausting? Perhaps, but for those who love lawn perfection, it's worth the extra effort.
For those wondering, "But isn’t a whipper snipper the same as an edger?" Well, sort of. You can definitely use a whipper snipper to trim the edges, but it’s better suited for the hard-to-reach areas, like fence lines or corners, where the mower can't reach.
However, if you're aiming for that sharp, defined edge, a dedicated lawn edger will be your best friend. Edgers dig into the soil and cut a clean, straight line between the lawn and surrounding surfaces, creating that crisp boundary that whipper snippers can’t quite achieve. While you can tilt a whipper snipper vertically to create edges, it’s far from as neat or precise as using an edger.
Some people swear by edging first, as it gives a clear line to follow when mowing. This can be especially helpful if you have a perfectly manicured lawn that’s mown to a low height. The crisp edge will guide your mower, ensuring that the grass height stays consistent all the way to the boundary. If you mow first, though, there’s a chance the edge won’t look as neat or uniform, especially if the mower slightly overcuts or misses spots.
At the end of the day, it's all about what works best for you and the look you're going for. The order doesn't matter as much as the results.
Once your lawn is looking its best, don’t forget to sit back, relax, and enjoy the view – maybe even with a refreshing drink in hand. Whether you mow first, edge first, or mix it up, the key is to enjoy the process and take pride in the final outcome.
In conclusion, whether you mow or edge your lawn first is largely a matter of personal preference, with a few practical considerations depending on the type of finish you're aiming for. While there's no right or wrong order when it comes to lawn care, following a routine that works best for your lawn’s appearance and your own efficiency is key. Whether you start with edging, mowing, or both, the important thing is maintaining a healthy, well-groomed lawn. And of course, enjoy the process – the satisfaction of a beautifully cared-for lawn is well worth the effort!
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