Expert Tips from the Team at Active Turf

At Active Turf, we don’t just grow premium turf—we help you keep it thriving. Whether you’ve just laid a fresh roll of Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo or you’re maintaining a well-established lawn, mowing is one of the most important steps in your lawn care routine. Done right, it can transform your yard into a lush, green showpiece. Done wrong, it can stress your turf and invite weeds or disease.

Here’s everything you need to know about mowing your lawn the right way—straight from the turf professionals serving the Sydney Greater Metro Area.

Why Mowing Matters More Than You Think

Mowing isn’t just about keeping your lawn neat. It’s a vital part of turf health. Regular mowing:

• Encourages denser, more resilient grass growth
• Helps prevent weeds from taking hold
• Improves nutrient uptake and water efficiency
• Enhances the overall appearance of your outdoor space

When you buy turf from Active Turf, you’re investing in quality. With the right mowing practices, you’ll protect that investment for years to come.

How to Mow Your Lawn Like a Pro

1. Stick to the One-Third Rule

Never cut more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mow. This helps avoid shock and keeps your lawn looking lush and healthy.

2. Adjust Your Mowing Height

Different turf varieties—and seasons—call for different mowing heights. For example:

• Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo: Keep it between 40–60mm for best results.
• Kikuyu Turf: Can be mowed shorter, around 25–40mm.
• Couch Turf: Prefers a tighter cut, around 15–30mm.

Not sure what turf you have? Contact us and we’ll help you identify it.

3. Keep Your Blades Sharp

Blunt mower blades tear the grass, leaving brown tips and making your lawn more susceptible to disease. Sharpen your blades every 20–25 hours of mowing.

4. Change Up Your Mowing Pattern

Mowing in the same direction every time can cause ruts and compact the soil. Alternate your mowing pattern to encourage upright growth and even coverage.

When’s the Best Time to Mow?

The best time to mow your lawn is:

• Early morning (after the dew has dried) or late afternoon, when the sun is less intense
• Avoid mowing during the heat of the day or when the grass is wet

If you’re in the Sydney Greater Metro Area, mowing during cooler parts of the day is especially important in summer when turf can dry out quickly. This helps reduce stress and keeps your lawn looking fresh.

Choosing the Right Lawn Mower for Your Yard

At Active Turf, we often get asked which mower is best. Here’s a quick guide:

• Manual reel mowers: Great for small, flat lawns and eco-conscious homeowners
• Electric or battery-powered mowers: Quiet and low-maintenance, ideal for suburban yards
• Petrol rotary mowers: Powerful and versatile for larger or uneven lawns
• Ride-on mowers: Perfect for acreage or commercial properties

Need help choosing? Our team is happy to offer advice based on your lawn size and turf type. Visit our previous blog for more guidance.

Mower Maintenance: Don’t Skip It

Before each mow:

• Remove sticks, rocks, and toys from your lawn
• Check your fuel and oil levels (for petrol mowers)
• Clean the mower deck to prevent grass build-up
• Inspect blades and belts for wear

A well-maintained mower makes for a better-looking lawn—and a safer mowing experience.

Seasonal Mowing Tips for Australian Lawns

Spring

• Start mowing once your lawn is actively growing
• Apply a slow-release fertiliser after the first mow
• Watch for early weeds and treat them promptly

Summer

• Raise your mowing height to protect roots from heat
• Water deeply and early in the morning
• Avoid mowing during drought stress

In the Sydney Greater Metro Area, summer heat can be intense. Following these lawn mowing tips for Sydney will help your turf stay resilient.

Autumn

• Gradually lower your mowing height
• Remove fallen leaves before mowing
• Prepare for winter with a final tidy-up mow

Winter

• Most warm-season grasses go dormant—mow only if needed
• Avoid mowing wet or frosty grass
• Service your mower and store it properly

For more region-specific advice, check out our NSW turf maintenance guide and explore the best grass varieties for the Sydney Greater Metro Area.

Common Mowing Mistakes to Avoid

• Mowing with dull blades
• Cutting grass too short
• Mowing wet grass
• Ignoring mower maintenance
• Using the wrong mower for your lawn size

Avoid these pitfalls and your lawn will thank you.

Trust Active Turf: Sydney’s Premium Turf Supplier

Whether you’re laying new turf or maintaining an existing lawn, Active Turf is proud to be your trusted Sydney turf supplier. We offer expert advice, top-quality turf varieties, and tailored support for homeowners across the Sydney Greater Metro Area and beyond.

Looking for lawn care services near you or wondering which turf suits your Sydney property best? Get in touch – or call us directly on 1800 757 658 we’re here to help!