Lawnmowers are essential tools for maintaining a healthy, neatly trimmed lawn. They come in various types, each with unique features suited to different lawn sizes, terrains, and user preferences. Whether you’re caring for a small yard or managing an extensive estate, choosing the right lawnmower, understanding how to use it effectively, and following maintenance tips can ensure you achieve a beautifully manicured lawn.
Types of Lawnmowers
Each type of lawnmower is tailored to specific yard needs. Here are the main types:
- Push Reel Mowers
Push reel mowers are manually operated, with a set of blades that spin as you push the mower forward. They’re quiet, environmentally friendly, and perfect for small lawns. Reel mowers don’t require fuel or electricity and are known for giving a clean cut, which is healthier for grass.
Best For:
- Small yards
- Flat, even lawns
Pros: No emissions, low noise, eco-friendly
Cons: Requires physical effort, not ideal for large or uneven lawns
- Electric Lawn Mowers (Corded)
Corded electric mowers are lightweight, quiet, and relatively maintenance-free. They provide consistent power and are easy to start, making them a popular choice for small to medium lawns. However, their range is limited by the length of the power cord, which may not be ideal for large yards or areas with many obstacles.
Best For:
- Small to medium lawns near a power source
- Homeowners looking for an easy-to-use option
Pros: Quiet, no emissions, low maintenance
Cons: Limited by cord length, need access to power outlet
- Battery-Powered (Cordless) Lawn Mowers
Battery-powered mowers offer the convenience of cordless operation with the eco-friendliness of electric mowers. They’re ideal for small to medium lawns and provide good maneuverability. Advances in battery technology mean many cordless mowers now have sufficient runtime and power for most residential needs. However, runtime is limited by battery life, so larger lawns may require extra batteries.
Best For:
- Small to medium lawns
- Eco-conscious homeowners wanting portability
Pros: No cord, low noise, no emissions
Cons: Limited runtime, requires battery charging
- Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers
Gas-powered mowers are powerful and can tackle larger areas, making them a favorite for medium to large lawns. They can handle tough grass, uneven terrain, and overgrown areas with ease. Gas mowers require regular maintenance, including oil changes and fueling, and they’re generally noisier than electric mowers.
Best For:
- Medium to large lawns
- Thick, overgrown, or uneven lawns
Pros: High power, portable, suitable for larger areas
Cons: Noisy, requires regular maintenance, emits fumes
- Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers
Self-propelled mowers have a motor that powers the wheels, reducing the effort needed to push the mower. They’re available in both gas and electric models and are ideal for medium to large lawns, especially if the terrain is uneven or hilly. With adjustable speed settings, they allow you to set a comfortable pace while mowing.
Best For:
- Medium to large lawns
- Hilly or uneven terrain
Pros: Easy to use, less physical effort required
Cons: Heavier than push mowers, more expensive
- Riding Lawn Mowers
Riding mowers are designed for large lawns and allow the user to sit and drive the mower, covering extensive areas quickly and efficiently. They come in a variety of models, including lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, and garden tractors, each with specific features suited to different landscapes and tasks.
Best For:
- Large lawns or estates
- Professional landscaping needs
Pros: Covers large areas quickly, less physical effort
Cons: Expensive, requires storage space, higher maintenance
- Robotic Lawn Mowers
Robotic mowers are self-operating mowers that can mow your lawn with minimal intervention. These mowers work well in smaller, flat areas and can be programmed to cut the lawn automatically. They’re quiet, eco-friendly, and offer the convenience of “hands-free” mowing.
Best For:
- Small, flat lawns
- Homeowners looking for low-effort maintenance
Pros: Minimal effort, low noise, programmable
Cons: Expensive, limited to small lawns, requires boundary setup
Key Features to Consider
When choosing a lawnmower, consider the following features to match your needs:
- Cutting Width
The cutting width, or deck size, determines how wide an area the mower can cut in a single pass. A wider deck size can cover more ground quickly, making it ideal for large lawns. However, narrower decks are more maneuverable and better for small, obstacle-filled yards.
- Cutting Height Adjustment
Most mowers offer adjustable cutting heights, allowing you to set the grass length based on the season and grass type. Adjustable cutting height is important for maintaining healthy grass, as different grass types thrive at different heights.
- Mulching, Bagging, and Side Discharge Options
Lawnmowers typically offer three options for handling clippings:
- Mulching: Cuts the grass finely and redistributes it as a natural fertilizer.
- Bagging: Collects clippings for easy disposal.
- Side Discharge: Ejects clippings to the side, useful for fast mowing in open areas.
Consider which options fit your lawn care preferences and how you plan to dispose of clippings.
- Power Source
Gas, corded electric, battery, and manual power each have advantages and trade-offs. Gas-powered mowers offer the most power for large areas, but battery and corded mowers are more environmentally friendly.
- Ease of Use and Comfort
Features like self-propulsion, ergonomic handles, and adjustable speed can make mowing more comfortable and reduce fatigue. For riding mowers, look for comfortable seating and user-friendly controls.
Lawn Mower Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance extends your mower’s life and keeps it running efficiently. Here are some basic tips:
- Sharpen the Blades: Dull blades tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, which can stress the grass and make it more susceptible to disease. Sharpen the blades at least once per season or more frequently for larger lawns.
- Clean the Mower: Remove grass clippings and debris from the mower deck after each use. This helps prevent clogging, rust, and mold growth.
- Change Oil and Fuel Filters: For gas mowers, change the oil and fuel filters regularly. Check the owner’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals.
- Check the Air Filter: A clogged air filter reduces engine performance in gas mowers. Clean or replace it regularly to keep the engine running smoothly.
- Inspect and Replace Spark Plug: A worn spark plug can make starting a gas mower difficult. Check and replace it at least once a season for optimal performance.
- Battery Care for Cordless Mowers: Recharge the battery fully after each use and store it in a cool, dry place. Batteries typically last for a few years before needing replacement.
- Store Properly: Always store the mower in a dry, sheltered area. If you’re storing a gas mower for the winter, drain the fuel to prevent clogging.
Lawn Mowing Tips for a Healthy Lawn
Mowing technique can have a significant impact on the health of your grass. Here are some best practices:
- Mow Regularly: Mow frequently enough that you don’t remove more than one-third of the grass blade’s height. Removing too much grass at once can stress the lawn.
- Alternate Mowing Patterns: Change your mowing direction each time to avoid compacting the soil and creating ruts. This also helps grass grow upright.
- Mow When the Grass is Dry: Mowing wet grass can lead to uneven cuts, clogging, and damage to the lawn. Try to mow when the grass is dry for the best results.
- Use Mulching Mode When Possible: Mulching helps return nutrients to the soil and can reduce the need for fertilizing. Fine grass clippings break down quickly and provide natural fertilizer.
Lawnmowers are essential tools that help keep lawns looking their best, but choosing the right one requires considering lawn size, terrain, power source, and personal preferences. Regular maintenance will ensure your mower remains efficient and effective, while proper mowing techniques promote a healthy, attractive lawn. Whether you’re using a simple push reel mower or a feature-rich riding mower, taking the time to select and care for your lawnmower will make a big difference in the quality and appearance of your lawn.