Spring is Coming: Is Your Lawn Ready for Its First Mow?
By Cody Cochran | Feb 2026
We’ve already spotted a few brave souls firing up their mowers this January, and with the mild stretches we sometimes get, it’s not hard to see why. Mowing season is creeping closer, and as your local lawn care crew, we’re keeping a close eye on the same signs we use before sending our teams out to your properties.
Here are the key indicators that tell us (and you) it’s truly time to start mowing in the Pacific Northwest:
Main Telltale Signs It’s Time
Grass height hits 3–4 inches – This is the #1 trigger for PNW lawn pros. Once it’s looking shaggy and consistently taller than that, it’s ready for its first trim. Waiting too long can shock the grass when you finally cut it.
Active new growth – Fresh green shoots appearing, blades standing upright instead of lying flat from winter, and the lawn starting to thicken and green up.
Ground is drying out – Spring soil around here stays soggy for a while. Only mow when the ground is firm enough that your mower won’t leave ruts or tear the grass instead of cutting cleanly. Look for a few consecutive dry(ish) days.
Warmer, consistent temps – Daytime highs regularly above 50°F are a strong signal that growth is ramping up. Bonus points if soil temperatures (a few inches down) are hitting 45–50°F.
No big frost risk – Avoid cutting right before a cold snap; fresh cuts are more vulnerable to damage.
Tips for That All-Important First Mow
Mow high: Set your blade to leave 2–3 inches (never remove more than 1/3 of the blade length). Taller grass shades the roots, retains moisture, and helps crowd out weeds in our cool, rainy springs.
Sharp blades matter: Dull blades tear grass and open the door to disease—especially problematic in our damp climate.
Go easy early: If it’s still wet, mow less often at first. Growth tends to explode in April and May once things really get rolling.
Don’t force a calendar date: Some years we’re mowing in February; others we wait until late April. Watch your own lawn—that’s the best guide.
Step outside, take a look, and ask yourself: “Does this need a trim?” If the answer is yes and the ground is firm, you’re good to go. Bonus clue: if moss or weeds are suddenly going wild, the grass isn’t far behind!
Let Us Take It Off Your Plate
DIY mowing is great when you have the time and energy, but we know life gets busy. Our teams are already gearing up for the season, using these same indicators to keep your lawn healthy, neat, and stress-free from the very first cut.
Ready for a lawn that looks great without the weekend hassle? Contact us today for a hassle-free estimate on weekly mowing service. We’ll handle the timing, the sharp blades, the perfect height—everything—so you can just enjoy a beautiful yard all spring and summer.
Call, text, or fill out the quick form on our website. We’re here to help!
360-491-7711 | 360-209-4717 (text - quickest response)
Contact us today if you have questions or want a free estimate.