As winter settles in, cool mornings and lower temperatures naturally slow down your lawn’s growth. But why does this happen and does it mean you can pack the mower away until spring? Let’s break it down.

Why Does My Lawn Grow Slower Over Winter?

Warm‑season grasses such as DNA Certified Sir Walter and Stampede Hybrid Buffalo, Nullarbor Couch, Eureka Kikuyu, Sir Grange and Zoysia Australis rely on warm soil to grow. Once soil temperatures drop below 14°C, these varieties begin to slow down and enter a mild form of dormancy. This is a natural protection mechanism that helps the lawn conserve energy during harsher conditions.

During this period, you’ll notice:

• Slower growth
• Less frequent mowing requirements
• Some colour loss as the plant focuses on survival rather than growth

Cooler regions like Victoria and South Australia experience more pronounced winter dormancy. In warmer areas such as Northern NSW and Queensland, lawns may slow down but generally won’t become fully dormant.

Do I Still Need to Mow Regularly Over Winter?

In most cases, yes but far less often.

Your mowing schedule should depend on how much growth you’re actually seeing. Even in winter, the one‑third rule still applies: Never remove more than one‑third of the leaf blade in a single mow.

Because growth is slower, you may only need to mow every few weeks. If your lawn is still ticking along with light growth, an occasional tidy‑up will help keep it healthy and prevent scalping when spring arrives

Should I Change My Mowing Height Over Winter?

Absolutely. Raising your mowing height by one or two notches during winter is recommended.

A slightly longer leaf:

• Captures more of the limited winter sunlight
• Helps the lawn photosynthesise more efficiently
• Supports nutrient retention
• Reduces stress on the plant during colder periods

This simple adjustment can make a noticeable difference to your lawn’s winter resilience.

Winter Mower Maintenance Checklist

With your lawn growing more slowly, winter is the perfect time to give your mower some attention. A quick service now means you’re ready to go when spring growth kicks in. More information on Lawn Solutions Australia’s Blog

Here’s a handy checklist:

• Check and replace engine oil
• Clean or replace the air filter
• Inspect the spark plug
• Clean the mowing deck
• Sharpen or replace mower blades
• Lubricate moving parts

A well‑maintained mower gives a cleaner cut which means a healthier lawn.

For more seasonal lawn care tips, explore our other blogs and keep your lawn looking its best all year round.