Do you mow or edge first? It's a question without a definitive answer in the long-standing dispute over lawn care order.
Some people swear by edging first, arguing it sets a tidy boundary for the rest of the lawn. Others believe that mowing first is the way to go, as it avoids the need to re-trim areas that may have been missed. So, which is the better approach?
As with most things in life, each strategy has its pros and cons. In this article, we'll explore the arguments for and against both methods so you can decide which one is best for your lawn care routine.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie with a green thumb, this is a debate you don't want to miss. So, sit back, relax, and let's discuss the great debate: Should you mow or edge first?
Benefits of Edging and Mowing
Let's take a quick look at the benefits of both edging and mowing.
Mowing your lawn regularly is essential for maintaining healthy grass. Trimming the tips of the grass blades ensures they grow thicker and stronger, which helps prevent weeds and other unwanted growth. Mowing also helps to distribute nutrients more evenly, as the clippings are collapsed and returned to the soil.
Meanwhile, edging helps create a clean and polished look for your lawn. Creating a clear boundary between the grass and other landscaping features gives your lawn a more defined and professional appearance. Edging is also crucial for preventing weed growth from degrading the quality of line trimming.
The edges of your lawn are the front line in your defense against weeds.
Source: All - Terrain Fargo
The Debate: Which is More Effective, Edging or Mowing First?
Now that we've covered the basics, let's discuss the great debate: Should I mow or edge first?
There is no "right" order when it comes to mowing and edging.
Source: GardenTabs
As mentioned earlier, there are arguments to be made for both approaches. Let's look at the pros and cons of each.
Pros of Edging First
One of the main arguments for edging first is that it creates a clean boundary for the rest of the lawn. By establishing the edges first, you ensure the rest of the lawn is cut to the appropriate length and shape. This helps prevent overgrown or uneven areas, which can be unsightly and difficult to maintain.
If you need a step-by-step guide to achieving professional results, read our post: How to Edge Your Lawn
Edging first can also help prevent damage to your landscaping features, such as sidewalks or driveways, which a lawnmower could accidentally nick if they aren't correctly edged beforehand. If your grass is short and tidy, starting with edging will likely give you a crisp boundary.
Cons of Edging First
There are also some potential downsides to edging first. One of the main issues with this approach is that it can be time-consuming. Edging a large lawn or one with complex landscaping features can be tedious. You may spend a lot of time edging only to then have to go back and mow the lawn.
Also, if you're not careful, edging first can create a mess. Grass clippings and debris can be thrown onto the sidewalk or driveway, which can be unsightly and difficult to clean up.
Pros of Mowing First
Mowing first has its own set of advantages. The biggest benefit is that it can save time. By mowing your lawn first, you ensure you've covered all the areas and avoid the need to re-trim any missed spots. This is especially helpful if you have a large lawn or are short on time. Mowing first can also create a more consistent look for your lawn, which can be challenging if you edge first.
If your lawn is overgrown and full of weeds, mow first. This removes a thick layer of grass that would otherwise make it hard to edge. This also helps to keep the edges neat and clear. Mowing prevents clippings from getting on the surface of your freshly edged lawn. Over time, weeds can easily take root in the edges of a messy lawn, particularly if it isn't well kept.
Cons of Mowing First
Of course, there are also some potential downsides to mowing first. One of the main issues with this approach is that it can make edging more difficult. If you mow first, you'll need to be careful not to accidentally damage your landscaping features as you edge. Mowing first can also create a mess, as grass clippings and debris can be thrown onto the edges of your lawn, making it difficult to clean up.
Conclusion: What's the Verdict?
So, is it better to edge before or after you mow? As you've seen, both approaches have their pros and cons. The answer ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the specifics of your lawn care routine.
Some people prefer to edge first, while others may find mowing more effective. Whatever approach you choose, remember to use the right tools, take your time, and clean up after yourself when you're done. With some care and attention, you can achieve a beautiful, healthy lawn that you'll be proud to show off.
Which is the optimal order for you—edging or mowing? Share your experience in the comments!
