Cutting long grass: plan the recovery first

Do not treat it as an ordinary short cut

The RHS recommends a high initial setting for long grass and removing no more than a third of grass height in a cut. Substantial growth may need a staged approach rather than an immediate short finish.

For a service enquiry, the important point is to describe the current lawn honestly. “Just mowing” can conceal a job that needs assessment before equipment can safely reach the working area. Include a wide photograph and a closer view that helps show the growth without entering an unsafe space.

Separate long grass from other overgrowth

Explain whether the area is predominantly grass or contains dense weeds, tangled growth or woody plants. Do not assume that everything growing in a former lawn can be handled as routine mowing. If the garden is no longer accessible, overgrown garden clearance may describe the job more accurately.

Identify intentionally retained patches. A longer section may be a deliberate habitat or part of the garden design. It should not be cut simply because the rest of the lawn needs attention.

Make hidden features known

Tell the gardener about stepping stones, edging, irrigation, old wire, toys, uneven ground and anything previously stored in the area. Mark known features from an accessible position where possible. Stop and obtain suitable advice if there may be dangerous materials; do not reach blindly into dense growth.

Before any powered work, the area needs an appropriate safety and wildlife check. If you are carrying out the job yourself, follow the equipment instructions and do not use this article as a substitute for knowing how to operate it.

Plan for the material that comes off

A long lawn can produce a different amount of cut material from a routine trim. Show where waste can be gathered and explain the route out of the garden. Tell us whether there is an existing pile as well, so the quote distinguishes old material from waste generated by the work.

Do not select a collection option purely by the number of bags you hope to fill. Ask about the material and quantity, and whether it will be removed as part of the agreed visit. See what to do with grass cuttings for the choices to consider.

Decide what follows the first visit

Agree the initial objective separately from the long-term appearance. Opening access or bringing the grass back within a manageable routine may be the first step. Ask what follow-up is needed before assuming one visit will produce your final result.

PW Gardening Service offers lawn mowing and green-waste clearance within its coverage area. Send an enquiry with photographs, postcode and access details, then use the mowing-frequency guide to think about ongoing care.