Will a Hedge Trimmer Cut Grass?
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Can You Use a Hedge Trimmer on Grass?
- When to Use a Hedge Trimmer Instead of a Mower
- How to Safely Cut Grass with a Hedge Trimmer
- The Limitations of Hedge Trimmers on Grass
- Essential Gear for the Job
- Comparing Tools: What Should You Use?
- Maintenance After Cutting Grass
- Summary of Best Practices
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
If you have ever stared at a patch of overgrown weeds or tall, swaying ornamental grass and wondered if your hedge trimmer could handle the job, you are not alone. It is a common question for many home gardeners who want to save time and effort. While hedge trimmers are specifically designed for woody stems and leafy shrubs, they are surprisingly versatile tools. At Garden Greenland, we know that the right tool for the job makes all the difference in your yard. In this post, we will explore whether a hedge trimmer can effectively cut grass, when it is appropriate to use one, and how to do it safely without damaging your equipment. For help choosing the right implement, see our garden tools collection.
Can You Use a Hedge Trimmer on Grass?
The short answer is yes, a hedge trimmer can cut grass, but it is not the ideal tool for every situation. Hedge trimmers use a reciprocating blade system, where two sets of teeth slide back and forth against each other. This action is perfect for slicing through small twigs and woody stems. When applied to grass, it works best on tall, thick, or ornamental varieties rather than a standard lawn.
Most home gardeners find that a hedge trimmer is a great alternative when the grass is too tall for a lawnmower to handle comfortably. If you have a field of brome grass or large clumps of pampas grass that have grown out of control, a hedge trimmer can act like a motorized scythe. However, for short, fine lawn grass, the blades may struggle to get a clean cut and can often just push the blades of grass around.
Quick Answer: Yes, a hedge trimmer can cut tall or ornamental grass, but it is not suitable for regular lawn mowing. It works best for clearing overgrown patches or tidying up decorative grasses before winter.
When to Use a Hedge Trimmer Instead of a Mower
There are specific scenarios where reaching for your hedge trimmer is actually more practical than dragging out the mower or a string trimmer.
Clearing Overgrown Fields
If a patch of your garden has been neglected and the grass is knee-high or taller, a lawnmower will likely stall. A hedge trimmer allows you to cut the grass at a higher level first. You can sweep the trimmer horizontally to take the bulk off the top before coming back in with a mower for a finished look.
Managing Ornamental Grasses
Many gardeners use ornamental grasses like miscanthus or pampas grass to add texture to their landscape. These plants need to be cut back once a year, usually in late winter or early spring. Because these stems are thick and often bundled together, a hedge trimmer is much faster and cleaner than using manual garden scissors or pruning shears.
Harvesting Mulch or Hay
If you grow tall grass specifically to use as mulch in your garden beds, a hedge trimmer is an excellent harvesting tool. It cuts the grass cleanly at the base without shredding it into tiny pieces like a mower blade would. This keeps the "hay" long and easy to spread over your soil.
How to Safely Cut Grass with a Hedge Trimmer
Using a hedge trimmer for grass requires a different technique than trimming a boxwood hedge. Because you are working closer to the ground, there are more risks to both the operator and the tool.
Step 1: Clear the Area
Before you start, inspect the area thoroughly. Remove any rocks, thick branches, or hidden garden ornaments. If the hedge trimmer teeth strike a stone, it can chip the blade or cause a dangerous kickback. If you need small hand tools for clearing, check our garden tools set options.
Step 2: Check Your Posture
Bending over for long periods is hard on your back. If the grass is short, it is often easier to kneel on a garden pad. If the grass is tall, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart for a stable base.
Step 3: Use a Sweeping Motion
Hold the trimmer perfectly horizontal and parallel to the ground. Move the tool in a wide, steady arc from left to right, similar to how you would use a traditional scythe.
Step 4: Maintain Blade Height
Keep the blades at least two to three inches above the soil. If you dip the blades into the dirt, the abrasive soil will dull the teeth almost instantly. At Garden Greenland, we recommend keeping a steady hand to avoid "scalping" the ground.
Step 5: Clear Debris Regularly
Grass can be "juicy" and sticky compared to dry hedge stems. This moisture can cause clippings to clog the teeth. Turn off the trimmer completely and wait for the blades to stop before clearing away any stuck clumps of grass.
Key Takeaway: Always keep the trimmer blade parallel to the ground and at least two inches high to avoid hitting rocks or soil, which will ruin the blades.
The Limitations of Hedge Trimmers on Grass
While it is possible to use this tool for grass, you should be aware of the trade-offs. Knowing these limitations will help you decide if it is the right move for your specific project.
- Blade Dulling: Grass contains silica, which is naturally abrasive. Using a hedge trimmer on large areas of grass will dull the blades much faster than trimming soft hedges.
- Gap Size Matters: Some smaller electric trimmers have narrow gaps between the teeth (often 1/2 inch). These can struggle with thick, bunchy grass. Gas-powered trimmers or heavy-duty battery models often have wider gaps that handle grass more effectively.
- Finish Quality: You will never get the "golf green" look with a hedge trimmer. The cut will be slightly uneven. It is a tool for clearing and managing, not for precision lawn aesthetics.
- Energy Consumption: Cutting through dense grass puts a high load on the motor. If you are using a battery-powered model, expect the run-time to be shorter than usual.
Essential Gear for the Job
Safety is paramount whenever you use power tools in the garden. Because cutting grass with a hedge trimmer involves sweeping the tool near your legs and feet, you must be properly protected.
- Garden Gloves: Choose gloves with a good grip to maintain total control over the tool's vibration. Browse our garden gloves collection for options.
- Eye Protection: Trimmers can kick up small pebbles or hard grass stalks at high speeds. Always wear safety glasses.
- Garden Clothes: Wear long pants and sturdy boots. Never use a hedge trimmer while wearing sandals or shorts. See our garden clothes collection for durable workwear.
- Hearing Protection: If you are using a gas-powered model, earplugs or muffs are a must for long sessions.
Our collection at Garden Greenland includes various garden clothes and gloves designed to keep you comfortable while you work. Having the right apparel ensures you can focus on the task without worrying about scratches or debris. For cleaning and care tips for your gloves, read our guide on how to clean garden gloves.
Comparing Tools: What Should You Use?
To help you decide which tool in your shed is best for your specific grass-cutting task, refer to the table below.
| Tool Type | Best Use Case | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawnmower | Standard lawn maintenance | Even finish, collects clippings | Cannot handle grass over 8-10 inches |
| String Trimmer | Edging and thin weeds | Great for tight spaces | Struggles with thick, woody grass stalks |
| Hedge Trimmer | Tall, ornamental, or bunch grass | Cuts thick stalks easily, good for harvesting | Dulls quickly on grass, hard on the back |
| Chainsaw | Large woody brush or thick branches | Maximum power | Too heavy and dangerous for grass |
Bottom line: Reach for the hedge trimmer for tall, decorative, or overgrown grass that a mower can't handle, but stick to the mower for your regular lawn. For smaller trimming tasks and pruning, see our garden scissors and pruning shears collection.
Maintenance After Cutting Grass
After you finish cutting grass, your hedge trimmer will need a little extra attention. Grass leaves behind a sticky residue and moisture that can lead to rust if left untreated.
- Clean the Blades: Use a stiff brush to remove all grass fragments. If the residue is stubborn, a damp cloth with a little mild soap can help.
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the blades are completely dry before storage.
- Lubricate: Apply a light coat of machine oil or a dedicated blade lubricant. This prevents the sap from the grass from "gluing" the blades together.
- Check Sharpness: Inspect the teeth for any nicks or dull spots. If you plan to use it on hedges next, you may need to sharpen the blades to ensure a clean cut for your shrubs.
We believe that well-maintained tools are the secret to a happy garden. By taking five minutes to clean your equipment after a session in the grass, you ensure it stays ready for its primary job of keeping your hedges beautiful. For a deeper look at tool care, see our guide on how to maintain garden tools for peak performance.
Summary of Best Practices
If you decide to use your hedge trimmer for grass management, keep these points in mind:
- Only use it on tall, overgrown, or ornamental grasses.
- Clear the area of all debris and rocks first.
- Keep the blades parallel to the ground and away from the soil.
- Wear full protective gear, including gloves and eye protection.
- Clean and oil the blades immediately after use to prevent rust and sticking.
Key Takeaway: Using a hedge trimmer on grass is a functional "shortcut" for heavy clearing, but it requires careful technique and immediate tool maintenance to be successful.
Conclusion
A hedge trimmer is a versatile addition to any tool shed, and while its name suggests a single purpose, it can certainly help you manage overgrown patches of grass and tall ornamental varieties. Whether you are clearing a space for new grow bags or tidying up the perimeter of your yard, understanding the limits of your equipment is key. We at Garden Greenland are dedicated to providing the tools and knowledge you need to make garden maintenance a rewarding experience. With the right approach and a bit of care, you can tackle even the most overgrown corners of your green space.
Your next step is to head out and assess your tall grass—if it’s over a foot high and thick, your hedge trimmer might just be the partner you need. If you’re preparing beds or containers afterward, explore our grow bags collection and our watering and irrigation range to plan your next steps.
FAQ
Can I use a hedge trimmer to mow my entire lawn?
No, using a hedge trimmer for an entire lawn is not recommended because it is physically exhausting and will result in an uneven cut. It is also much harder on the tool's motor and blades than a standard lawnmower. Save the hedge trimmer for small, overgrown areas or ornamental clumps.
Will cutting grass dull my hedge trimmer blades?
Yes, cutting grass will dull the blades faster than trimming leafy hedges because grass contains silica and often carries fine grit from the soil. You will likely need to sharpen or lubricate the blades more frequently if you use them for grass regularly. For tips on blade care and maintenance, consult our tool maintenance guide.
Is an electric or gas hedge trimmer better for cutting grass?
Gas-powered hedge trimmers are generally better for cutting grass because they offer more power and usually have wider gaps between the blade teeth. However, a high-quality battery-powered trimmer can handle ornamental grasses effectively as long as the battery is fully charged.
Can a hedge trimmer cut through wet grass?
You should avoid cutting wet grass with a hedge trimmer, especially if you are using an electric corded model, due to the risk of electric shock. Wet grass also tends to clump and clog the blades more easily, which can strain the motor and lead to a ragged, unhealthy cut for the plant.
Related resources
- Learn more about choosing the right size for containers in our guide on what size grow bags you need for your garden.
- Read our comparison of grow bags versus pots to decide which planting method fits your project.
- For care tips on clothing and protection while working, see our article on what percentage of shade cloth is best and other garden clothes advice.
- Want a deeper dive on tool storage and upkeep? Check out how to store garden tools outside and our essential guide on how to maintain garden tools for peak performance.
