Overgrown lawn before mowing

31 March 2026

Lawn Mowing

How to Cut Overgrown Grass (Step-by-Step Guide)

Cutting overgrown grass can be challenging if it’s long, thick, or hasn’t been maintained for weeks or months. Using the wrong approach can damage your lawn or equipment. This guide explains the safest and most effective way to cut overgrown grass and restore your lawn properly.

Why Overgrown Grass is Difficult to Cut

Overgrown grass is tougher to mow because it is often dense, tangled, and damp near the base. Standard lawn mowers can struggle with long grass, leading to uneven cuts, clogging, or even damage to the mower. That’s why it’s important to follow the correct process instead of trying to cut it in one go.

Cutting long grass

Step 1: Reduce the Height First

Start by trimming the grass down to a manageable height using a whipper snipper or brush cutter. Trying to mow extremely long grass in one pass can overload your mower. Reducing the height first makes the final cut much easier and cleaner.

Step 2: Use the Right Equipment

For overgrown lawns, standard mowers may not be enough. Use heavy-duty equipment designed for thick and tall grass. Sharp blades are essential to avoid tearing the grass, which can damage your lawn and affect regrowth.

Step 3: Mow in Multiple Passes

Instead of cutting the grass down to its final height immediately, mow in stages. Gradually lower the cutting height over 2–3 passes. This prevents stress on the lawn and ensures a more even, professional finish.

Lawn after mowing

Step 4: Clean Up Clippings

Overgrown grass produces a large amount of clippings. Leaving them behind can smother the lawn and cause patchy growth. Always rake or remove excess grass to keep your lawn healthy and tidy.

Step 5: Edge and Finish

Once the lawn is cut, finish with edging and trimming around paths, driveways, and garden beds. This gives your lawn a clean and polished appearance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When to Call a Professional

If your lawn is extremely overgrown, uneven, or difficult to access, it’s often best to call professionals. They have the right tools and experience to handle heavy overgrowth safely and efficiently.

For expert help, visit our Lawn Mowing service or request a quote for fast and reliable service in Melbourne.

Get an Instant Price Estimate

Not sure how much it will cost? Use our Lawn Mowing Cost Calculator to get an instant estimate based on your lawn size and condition.

Final Thoughts

Cutting overgrown grass requires the right approach, tools, and technique. By reducing height gradually, using proper equipment, and cleaning up properly, you can restore your lawn without causing damage. For larger or more difficult jobs, professional lawn mowing services can save time and ensure the best results. Two Mates Property Care provides reliable overgrown lawn mowing services across Melbourne.

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