A well-manicured and maintained lawn is the pride of every homeowner. Achieving such a lawn requires regular care and attention, but sometimes, there are things that you may not be able to control. One of these things is the growth of grass along the fence line.
While it may seem like a minor issue, trimming grass along the fence can actually be quite tricky. If not done properly, you run the risk of damaging your fence or, worse, your lawn mower. So, what’s the best way to go about it?
Challenges of Trimming Grass Along the Fence Line
Before we consider the best way to trim grass along the fence, let’s take a look at some of the challenges that come with it.
The biggest challenge when it comes to trimming grass along the fence line is the fact that most fences are not perfectly straight. This means that you will have to deal with uneven ground, making it more difficult to maneuver your lawn mower. In addition, the fence itself can be an obstacle, blocking your view of the grass and making it more difficult to trim evenly.
Another challenge is the fact that the fence line is often adjacent to other lawn features such as gardens, flower beds, or trees. When this happens, you need to be extra careful not to damage these features while trimming the grass. Getting around the small and tight spots can be difficult and time-consuming.
The Best Way to Trim Grass Along the Fence Line
While it may sound nearly impossible to trim grass along the fence line without causing any damage, there are actually a few things that you can do to minimize the risk.
Invest in a Good Quality Lawn Mower
The first and most important thing that you can do is to invest in a good-quality lawn mower. A good lawn mower will make it easier to maneuver around uneven ground and tight spots. This is your best friend and going with a cheap model will only make your life more difficult.
Use a String Trimmer
A string trimmer is also a valuable tool to have when trimming grass along the fence line. This is because a string trimmer can reach areas your lawn mower cannot. It’s also great for getting around tight spots and obstacles. Just be sure to use a string trimmer designed for the type of fence you have.
Use Weed Whacker as an Option
Sometimes, a weed whacker may be the best tool for the job. This is especially true if your fence line is adjacent to other lawn features. A weed whacker can help you get around tight spots without damaging your fence or other lawn features.
Go Slow
Although it’s tempting to just run your lawn mower or weed whacker as fast as you can to get over this job as quickly as possible, it’s actually not a good idea. When you go too fast, you’re more likely to make mistakes that can damage your fence or lawn. Instead, take your time and go slowly to ensure a clean and even trim.
Cut at an Angle
If you’re not careful around the fence line, you can end up leaving the grass too short. This is because the lawn mower’s wheels can cause the blade to cut at an angle, resulting in a shorter trim. To avoid this, simply back your lawn mower up a few inches from the fence before cutting.
As you go closer to your fence, turn the blade of your lawn mower, so it’s at a higher angle. This will help ensure you cut the grass evenly and avoid damaging the fence.
Use Metal Flashing to Protect Your Fence Line
Another great way to protect your fence line is to use metal flashing. Metal flashing can be placed along the fence line and help deflect the blade of your lawn mower, protecting your fence from damage. This metal flashing also prevents you from causing damage to your fence, particularly if you accidentally hit it with your lawn mower.
Alternatively, you may use corrugated pipes or old tires to protect your fence line. Whatever you use, just be sure that it’s sturdy enough to withstand the force of your lawn mower blade.
Best Way to Trim Grass Along Fence: Final Thoughts
Despite the challenge, trimming grass along the fence line is something every homeowner will have to do at some point. While it may seem daunting, there are actually a few things that you can do to make the process easier.
Be patient, take your time, and use the right tools for the job. With careful planning, you can trim your grass without damaging your fence line.
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