When Should You Start Mowing Your Lawn in Massachusetts?
A Spring Guide for Homeowners in Peabody, Melrose & Surrounding Towns
As the snow melts and temperatures rise, homeowners across Massachusetts start wondering: When should I mow my lawn for the first time this year? If you're in Peabody, Melrose, Wakefield, or nearby towns, this guide will help you time it right and keep your lawn healthy all season long.
📅 When to Start Mowing in Massachusetts
In most of eastern Massachusetts, lawns begin growing again once soil temperatures reach 50°F — usually around mid to late April. If your grass has grown to about 3.5 to 4 inches, it’s ready for its first trim.
Signs your lawn is ready:
Grass has reached mowing height (3.5–4 inches)
The ground is firm and no longer soggy
No heavy debris or snow mold covering the yard
🧼 Step 1: Spring Cleanup Before You Mow
Before mowing, always start with a proper spring cleanup:
Remove leaves, branches, and salt from sidewalks/edges
Clear matted patches or dead grass to help airflow
Trim overgrowth around mulch beds, fences, or walkways
Our team typically pairs mowing with spring cleanups for a fresh, even start.
✂️ Mow Low — But Not Too Low
For your first mow of the season:
Set your blade height to 2.5–3 inches
Never cut more than ⅓ of the grass height
Ensure blades are sharpened to avoid tearing the grass
A clean cut encourages deep root growth and reduces stress on your lawn.
📍 Local Lawn Tip:
In towns like Melrose and Wakefield, shaded lawns tend to warm up more slowly. If your yard isn’t growing yet, hold off mowing until daytime temps consistently stay above 50°F.
🔁 How Often Should You Mow in Spring?
In early spring, grass grows slower — but that changes fast:
Mow every 7–10 days in April
Increase to weekly mowing in May as growth speeds up
Leave clippings on the lawn — they act as natural mulch
🧠 Final Thoughts
Spring mowing is more than just the first cut — it sets the tone for a healthy, green summer lawn. Starting too early or cutting too short can cause long-term damage. But if you time it right and mow with care, your lawn will thank you.
Want to see real spring results? Scroll through our photos to see recent jobs in Peabody, Melrose, and beyond. If your yard needs a cleanup before that first mow, we're in your neighborhood.
