Robotic lawnmower winter break – when is the right time?

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, many garden owners ask themselves the same question: When should the robotic lawnmower actually go into winter storage? Especially in autumn, it's often difficult to tell when the right time has come – the lawn sometimes grows quickly, sometimes not at all, and the weather is constantly changing. Those who switch the robot off too early risk unkempt lawns; those who let it run too late may damage the device or the soil.

To ensure you don't miss the ideal time, we'll show you how to recognize that your robotic lawnmower in Germany is ready for its winter break – depending on temperature, region and lawn condition.

Why even have a winter break for robotic lawnmowers?

Even though modern robotic lawnmowers are designed for continuous use, even the best technology needs a break now and then. The main reason for this lies in the natural growth cycle of the lawn: as soon as temperatures consistently drop below about 8 to 10 degrees Celsius, lawn growth slows down considerably – below 6 degrees, it practically stops growing altogether.

A robotic lawnmower would then have nothing to do and would only waste energy and wear out unnecessarily. Furthermore, wet or frozen ground can damage both the device and the lawn. The wheels are more likely to lose traction, and the cutting mechanism can damage the soil.

A winter break thus protects both the robot and your lawn, ensuring that both can start again in top form in the spring.

Signals indicating the right time for the robotic lawnmower to take a winter break.

It's not always easy to know when to put your robotic lawnmower into winter storage. The right time depends less on the calendar and more on the weather, temperature, and the condition of your lawn. A few clear signs will help you determine when the robot has completed its last run of the season. This will prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the device and protect your lawn.

Temperature – the decisive factor

Temperature is the most important indicator for the winter dormancy period. As soon as the average daily temperature consistently falls below 10 degrees Celsius, lawn growth slows significantly. At temperatures below 6 degrees, it practically stops growing, and mowing would be pointless. Especially at night, frost can harden the soil and put a strain on the robotic lawnmower. It is advisable to pay attention to regional weather forecasts, as the conditions for the winter dormancy period are often reached as early as mid-October in northern Germany, and not until mid-November in southern Germany.

• 10 °C: Lawn still grows slightly
• 6–10 °C: Growth slows down
• < 6 °C: Lawn growth practically stops → Winter dormancy

Day length and light conditions

Besides temperature, the length of daylight hours influences lawn growth. Less sunlight means less photosynthesis, causing the grass plants to produce energy more slowly. In Germany, the day length shortens noticeably from the end of September, which affects lawn activity. Observe how your lawn reacts to mowing: If it remains the same height for several days after cutting, this is a clear sign that the growth phase is almost over. This signal often appears earlier, especially in regions with short autumn days, such as northern Germany or low mountain ranges.

Visible signs on the lawn

Another clear indicator is the visual condition of the lawn. If cutting marks are barely visible after mowing, or if the grass remains at the same height for several days, the lawn is hardly growing anymore. Wet or muddy areas also indicate that the soil is sensitive and the robot mower could cause damage. Pay attention to discolored or very short grass, which points to reduced vitality. Such visual indicators, along with temperature and light signals, will confirm that the ideal time for winter dormancy has arrived.

Regional differences in Germany

The ideal time for winter dormancy varies considerably across Germany. In northern Germany, lawns are often ready for winter dormancy by mid- to late October, as temperatures drop earlier and the days become shorter. In central Germany, the optimal time is usually between late October and early November. In southern Germany or the Alpine foothills, lawn growth can extend into mid-November due to milder autumn temperatures.

• Northern Germany: Mid to late October
• Central Germany: Late October – Early November
• Southern Germany / Alpine foothills: Early to mid-November

Transition phase – better too late than too early

In early autumn, it can be tempting to immediately put your robotic lawnmower into winter storage. However, the lawn often continues to grow for several more weeks during this transitional phase. If you stop too early, you risk weeds or patches of uncontrolled grass growth.

Tip: Observe your lawn closely for one to two weeks. If the cut marks remain visible and the grass continues to grow, you should continue letting the robot mower run. Only when it slips more frequently, the clippings clump together, or growth signs noticeably diminish, is it time for the ideal winter break. Remember: it's better to act according to the situation than rigidly by the calendar. The decision depends on temperature, lawn condition, and regional conditions, not on a fixed date. This way, your lawn stays healthy, and your robotic mower is protected.

Extra tip: What should be considered during the winter break of the robotic lawnmower?

• Final mowing: Carry out the last cut of the season in dry weather. This ensures that the lawn remains at a uniform height before winter. This makes it easier for the grass to overwinter and ensures a clean start in spring.
• Clean and switch off the robot: Thoroughly remove grass clippings, dirt, and leaves from the cutting deck and underside. Switch off the device to save energy and prevent unnecessary wear and tear during idle periods.
• Check the charging station: Disconnect the charging station from the mains power supply or switch it off if it is not located in a frost-free area. This protects both the electronics and safety in the garden.
• Note on winter storage: If you wish to winterize your robotic lawnmower, you can store it afterwards in a dry, frost-free room. Details can be found in our separate article "Winterizing your robotic lawnmower".

FAQs about the winter break for robotic lawnmowers

Until what age should you let robotic lawnmowers run?

You should run the robotic lawnmower as long as the grass is still growing and temperatures are above approximately 6–8 °C. Observe the cutting marks and the grass height: only when growth slows significantly is it time for the winter break. Regional differences should be taken into account.

Is it still possible to mow the lawn at 5 degrees Celsius?

At temperatures around 5°C, grass growth slows considerably, and mowing is generally unnecessary. The ground can also be hard or damp, which can strain the mower and damage the lawn. During this period, a winter break for the robotic lawnmower is recommended.

When can I restart my robotic lawnmower after winter?

Only start the robotic lawnmower when lawn growth and soil conditions are suitable again – generally from temperatures above 8–10 °C. Before the first use, check the blades, sensors and battery level to ensure safe and efficient use in the spring.

Can I leave the GARDENA charging station outside during the winter?

Yes, the GARDENA charging station can be left unused over the winter if it is stored in a dry, frost-free place. Alternatively, you can leave it plugged in during mild weather, but avoid frost or moisture. Regular checks will protect the electronics during the winter break.

Conclusion

Your robotic lawnmower's winter break isn't determined by a fixed date, but rather by temperature, daylight, and the condition of your lawn. Observe grass growth, cutting marks, and soil structure to identify the optimal time for its last run of the season. Especially in Germany, the timing varies depending on the region – from early autumn in northern Germany to mid-November in the south. It's better to act according to the situation rather than rigidly following the calendar: this protects both your lawn and your robotic lawnmower from unnecessary wear and tear. With the right transition period and clear signals from temperature, light, and the lawn's appearance, you can initiate the winter break effectively and ensure your garden is well-maintained again in the spring.