November brings cooler weather to California, and your lawn starts to shift into winter mode. A little extra care now can keep it looking green and healthy through the colder months.
Mowing the right way this time of year makes a big difference. It helps your grass stay strong and prevents issues like disease or bare patches.
I’ve found that following a few smart mowing tips saves time and effort later. It’s a simple way to protect your yard and set it up for a great spring.
1. Raise Your Mower Blade Height
Cooler temperatures mean your grass grows slower, so cutting it too short can damage the roots. Set your mower blades between 2.5 to 3 inches high during November.
Taller grass protects the soil from cold weather and helps roots stay strong. Your lawn will look fuller and healthier when spring arrives.
Most California grasses prefer this height year-round, but it becomes especially important as winter approaches.
2. Mow Less Frequently
Your grass slows down its growth dramatically when November temperatures drop. Instead of weekly mowing, you might only need to cut every two or three weeks.
Watch your lawn carefully and only mow when the grass actually needs it. Cutting too often wastes gas, wears out your mower, and stresses your yard unnecessarily.
Some California homeowners find they can skip mowing entirely during late November depending on their grass type.
3. Keep Your Blades Sharp
Dull mower blades tear grass instead of cutting it cleanly, which leaves brown, ragged edges that invite disease. Before November mowing begins, sharpen your blades or have a professional do it.
Sharp blades make cleaner cuts that heal faster and look better. Your lawn stays greener and healthier throughout the cooler months.
Check your blades monthly and sharpen them whenever you notice torn or frayed grass tips.
4. Avoid Mowing Wet Grass
November often brings rain to California, making lawns damp or soggy. Mowing wet grass clumps up your mower, spreads disease, and creates uneven cuts that look messy.
Wait until the grass dries completely before you start mowing. Early afternoon usually works best since morning dew has evaporated by then.
Wet clippings also stick to your mower deck, causing rust and making cleanup much harder than necessary.
5. Follow The One-Third Rule
Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade length in a single mowing session. Cutting too much at once shocks the grass and weakens its ability to survive winter.
If your lawn gets too tall between mowings, cut it gradually over several sessions. This keeps your grass strong and reduces stress on the plants.
California lawns recover better from gentle, regular trimming rather than drastic cuts that expose tender grass crowns.
6. Leave Grass Clippings On The Lawn
Grass clippings break down quickly and return valuable nutrients back into your soil. During November, these nutrients help your lawn prepare for winter dormancy and spring growth.
Clippings contain nitrogen, which acts as a natural fertilizer and reduces your need for chemical products. They also help the soil retain moisture during drier November days.
Only bag clippings if they form thick clumps that could smother the grass underneath.
7. Adjust For Your Grass Type
California lawns include many grass varieties like Bermuda, fescue, and St. Augustine, each with different November needs. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda go dormant and need minimal cutting, while cool-season fescue stays active.
Research your specific grass type to understand its autumn requirements. Some grasses thrive with shorter cuts while others prefer staying tall through winter.
Local nurseries or extension offices can help identify your grass and recommend the best November care routine.