Has there been rainy weather lately and you’re itching to get rid of weeds and give your grass a trim? Since most weed trimmers are powered by batteries or electricity, can you weedeat when it’s wet outside?
Can You Weedeat When the Grass is Wet?
Curiously enough, the answer to the question is, ‘why not?’ Most weed trimmers nowadays are designed to work in most weather conditions, even when there’s been rain and when the grass is wet.
Yes, you can weedeat when the grass is wet, although you might find it a more difficult task. Wet grass and weeds are likely to be hydrated and therefore tougher, and you’ll discover that it generally takes more effort to clear them.
However, if you’re really determined to get things done, then you should be able to weedeat even when it’s wet outside. If the weather forecast shows more heavy rains or showers, or if you want a headstart on the lawn maintenance department then you can power up your trimmer and head out to complete the task.
As a word of warning, there are several drawbacks to using a weed eater to mow the lawn in wet conditions. Aside from the weed and grass being tougher, your electric trimmer will have to work harder, resulting in a shortened lifespan. That said, if you can wait a few days or even an hour or two until the ground dries then it will be better for you and your weed whacker.
Is It Safe to Weed Whack in the Rain?
Operating a weed-eater in damp conditions or even when it’s raining lightly shouldn’t be too concerning, as the equipment doesn’t conduct electricity. You can take several precautions to ensure you don’t get harmed while eliminating weeds, such as using the correct outlet and extension cords.
It’s recommended that you place the extension cord and the weedeater’s plug on a dry surface. Alternatively, you can wrap it in electrical tape. Generally speaking, you should not use a weed whacker when it’s raining outside, or if there are pools of water standing on your lawn.
Taking care of your string trimmer ensures that you can get a lot of service out of it for a long time. Aside from refraining from using weedeat in the rain or when it’s wet, you should keep the tool in a dry environment.
Three Tips on Using Grass Trimmer in Wet Conditions
Wear Protective Clothing
Weedeating in wet conditions tends to be messy, and there’s a greater chance that the trimmer throws up mud and pieces of grass and weed debris all over the place. In order to prevent possible injuries, it’s recommended that you dress appropriately so you can stay safe.
Protective eyewear and clothing such as goggles and long-sleeved shirts should be worn. In addition, you can wear gloves and closed-toe shoes, and similar footwear to avoid possible scrapes.
Don’t Mow Wet Grass
While it’s generally okay to cut weeds and use a trimmer after it rains, you shouldn’t do a full mowing session when the grass is wet.
Mowing wet grass tends to result in an uneven shred because grass clumps together, and this in turn makes it more difficult to cut. You’ll be left with a ragged mess compared to when you’re mowing on a dry and sunny day. Furthermore, the soil will be wet, and dull blades can cause bald patches as it pulls up grass rather than cut them.
That said, it’s generally okay to trim your lawn a bit with weedeat after rain.
Clear Debris First
Before you go out with your weed trimmer, you should do a careful examination of your lawn or yard. Check and remove any debris that might get in the way of your cutting, such as twigs, stems, and fallen tree or shrub leaves, and round them up.
Cutting into debris will shorten the lifespan of your mowing equipment and cause the blades to dull faster. When a weed trimmer is out of shape it has a tendency to act up and damage the base of your lawn. Make sure to clean up the weedeat afterward and store the tool in a dry and sheltered place, such as your garage or shed.
Related Article: Can You Mow in the Rain?