If you’ve got a patch of tall grass that your mower can’t handle, knowing how to cut tall grass with a string trimmer is an essential skill. It’s the perfect tool for tackling overgrown areas, but doing it wrong can damage your equipment and leave a messy result.
This guide will walk you through the entire process, from preparation to the final clean-up. You’ll learn the right techniques to cut efficiently and keep your trimmer in good shape.
Let’s get that overgrown area back under control.
How to Cut Tall Grass – With a String Trimmer
Using a string trimmer on tall grass isn’t just about swinging it around. A methodical approach saves you time and effort. It also produces a much nicer finish.
First, you need to assess the situation. Is the grass just long, or is it truly overgrown with weeds and maybe even small woody stems? This will determine your strategy.
Essential Safety Gear You Must Wear
Never skip safety. Tall grass can hide debris that the trimmer can kick back at high speed.
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a full face shield are non-negotiable.
- Hearing Protection: Trimmers are loud; earmuffs or earplugs prevent long-term hearing damage.
- Sturdy Footwear: Wear closed-toe shoes or, better yet, steel-toe boots.
- Long Pants and Sleeves: Protect your skin from flying debris and irritating grass blades.
- Gloves: Improve your grip and protect your hands.
Preparing the Area for Trimming
Taking a few minutes to prep the area makes the actual cutting much safer and easier.
- Walk the Area: Carefully look for and remove large rocks, sticks, toys, dog bones, or any other solid objects hidden in the grass.
- Mark Obstacles: Use flags or sticks to mark sprinkler heads, shallow cables, or delicate plants you want to avoid.
- Plan Your Exit: Don’t trim yourself into a corner. Start at the perimeter and work inward, or have a clear path to walk backwards.
Choosing the Right String Trimmer and Line
Not all trimmers are equal for tall grass. Using the wrong tool can lead to frustration.
- For Moderate Growth: A standard electric or gas trimmer with a 0.080-0.095 inch diameter nylon line can work if you take it slow.
- For Dense, Thick Grass: You need a powerful gas or commercial-grade electric trimmer. Opt for a thicker line, like 0.105 or 0.130 inch. Some people even use a trimmer with a plastic blade attachment for the first pass.
- Line Shape Matters: For tough jobs, consider a twisted or square line. They cut more aggressively than round line.
Setting Up Your Trimmer Correctly
Before you start, ensure your trimmer is ready for the challenge.
- Check the Fuel/Oil: For gas models, ensure you have a fresh mix. For battery, have a fully charged spare ready.
- Inspect the Line: Load a fresh spool of the appropriate thickness. Make sure it feeds smoothly.
- Adjust the Shaft: Set the shaft length so the guard sits comfortably just above your waist when the head is flat on the ground.
- Secure the Harness: If your trimmer has a harness, use it. It distributes weight and reduces fatigue dramatically.
The Two-Pass Technique: The Secret to Success
Trying to cut tall grass down to size in one go will clog your trimmer and give poor results. The two-pass technique is the professional method.
Step 1: The First Pass – Topping
The goal here is to reduce the height by about half. You’re not aiming for perfection, just bulk removal.
- Hold the trimmer head parallel to the ground, about halfway up the grass stems.
- Use a slow, sweeping motion from side to side, letting the tips of the line do the work.
- Move forward steadily, overlapping your sweeps slightly.
- Work in small sections, knocking down the tall grass uniformly. This first pass will leave a lot of clippings on top of the remaining grass.
Step 2: The Second Pass – Finishing
Now you can cut the remaining grass to your desired length. This is similar to normal trimming.
- Wait a few minutes for the debris from the first pass to settle, or gently rake it aside if it’s too thick.
- Adjust your stance and hold the trimmer so the head is at the height you want the final grass to be.
- Use controlled, even sweeps. Move the trimmer from right to left (if you’re right-handed) so the debris is thrown away from you.
- Keep the head level for an even cut. Don’t dig into the soil.
Mastering the Cutting Motion
Your technique is more important than pure power. Good form prevents fatigue and gives a clean cut.
- Use Your Hips: Pivot from your hips, not just your arms. This gives you a wider, more controlled arc.
- The “Flick”: At the end of each sweep, gently flick the tip of the trimmer head outward. This uses centrifugal force to extend the cutting line, giving you more reach and a cleaner cut at the tips.
- Mind the Guard: Always keep the guard between you and the cutting line. It’s there for a reason.
- Don’t Force It: Let the speed of the line do the cutting. If the motor bogs down, you’re trying to cut too much at once; slow down your forward movement.
Dealing with Extremely Thick or Woody Growth
Sometimes grass is mixed with weeds and small saplings. Here’s how to handle it.
For stems up to about 1/4 inch thick, you can use your trimmer with care. Approach the stem from the top and let the line “saw” through it with a slow, steady pressure. Don’t try to whack it quickly. For anything larger, use loppers or a brush cutter attachment to avoid damaging your trimmer.
Always clear these woody pieces away from the area before continuing with grass cutting. They can become dangerous projectiles.
Cleaning Up After Cutting Tall Grass
The job isn’t done until you’ve cleaned up. Tall grass generates a lot of clippings.
- Let It Settle: Give the clippings a few minutes to fall to the ground.
- Rake Thoroughly: Use a sturdy rake to gather the clippings into piles. Leaving a thick mat of clippings can smother the grass underneath and invite pests.
- Disposal: Add clippings to your compost pile if they don’t contain weed seeds. Otherwise, bag them for yard waste collection.
- Inspect the Area: Do a final walk-through to check for any debris you might have missed or any damage to hidden objects.
Post-Operation Trimmer Care
Cutting tall grass is hard on your tool. Proper care afterwards ensures it’s ready for next time.
- Clean the Head and Guard: Grass and sap can wrap around the head. Scrape it off with a stick or brush after the trimmer has completely cooled down.
- Check the Line: See how much line is left and replace the spool if it’s low. It’s better to start the next job with a full spool.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for cracks in the guard or housing. Check that all bolts and screws are tight.
- Air Filter (Gas Models): Tap out the filter or clean it. Tall grass creates a lot of dust that can clog the filter quickly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Steer clear of these errors to get the best results and stay safe.
- Swinging Like a Scythe: This is dangerous and ineffective. Use controlled, horizontal sweeps.
- Cutting When Wet: Wet grass clumps terribly, clogs your trimmer, and is slippery underfoot.
- Ignoring the Wind: Always try to position yourself so the wind blows debris away from you, not toward your legs or face.
- Running on Fumes: Don’t start a big job with a half-charged battery or little fuel. Running a gas trimmer dry of fuel is bad for it.
FAQ Section
Can you cut really tall grass with a string trimmer?
Yes, absolutely. By using the two-pass technique outlined above, you can effectively cut grass that is several feet tall. Just be patient and let the tool do the work.
What is the best tool for cutting tall grass?
For large, consistently overgrown areas, a brush cutter or a scythe might be more efficient. But for most residential properties, a powerful string trimmer is the most versatile and practical tool for cutting tall grass and weeds.
How short should you cut overgrown grass?
Don’t cut it down to your normal lawn height in one session. This shocks the grass. On your finishing pass, aim to leave it about 3-4 inches tall. You can gradually lower it over the next few mowings.
Why does my trimmer line keep breaking in tall grass?
This is often caused by hitting hidden rocks or soil. It can also happen if you’re using line that’s too thin for the job or if you’re forcing the trimmer head too fast into dense material. Try a thicker, more durable line and slow down your cutting pace.
Is it better to use a blade or string for tall grass?
For pure grass, a heavy-duty string is usually sufficient and safer around hidden obstacles. For areas with lots of woody stems, saplings, or thick vines, a metal brush cutter blade might be necessary. Always check your trimmer’s manual to see what attachments it can safely use.
Mastering how to cut tall grass with a string trimmer is all about the right preparation and technique. By gearing up safely, preparing the area, and using the two-pass method, you can handle even the most neglected patches. Remember to maintain your tool after each tough job, and it will serve you well for many seasons. With a little practice, you’ll be able to reclaim any overgrown part of your yard efficiently and effectively.