Mower recommendations

[kmbrandon]

I was wondering if anyone can recommend a particular lawn mower to maintain a Bermuda lawn. I plan to mow it a little on the tall side (for Bermuda) so I can save on water usage. I know a reel mower would be ideal, but since I don't want to cut it short I think that would be a waste.

Just looking for a good mulcher with the option to bag as needed. It appears most rotary mowers are the same except for the "features" like self-propelled, electric start, etc.

Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Kevin

[Dchall_San_Antonio]

I use a battery powered Black and Decker. I like the idea that it doesn't pollute but also it is much quieter than a gas mower.

I'm not sure letting bermuda get tall will help with water usage. If you don't want to water bermuda, it will go dormant no matter how tall you have it. Lower mowing bermuda keeps it the most dense and keeps the sunlight off of the soil better. Sunlight on soil heats it up, dries it out and fosters weed seed germination.

[A Cut Above]

I would not recommend the black and decker battery pack stuff unless you have a very small lawn (much less than 1000 sq. ft.). I also disagree with the battery pack stuff being more 'clean' because what is involved with making the batteries, the acid, and the disposal when the batteries are cooked. You also have to charge the batts with electricity that is made from fossil fuels. No disrespect, David, just my .02. A clean honda will give you years of service and is good for mowers on emissions.

[khwoz]

If you want a decent looking Bermuda lawn, you will need to mow on the short side. I believe that the short will use less water than the tall grass. As far as mowers, the reel will cut the best but leaves clippings laying on top. If you want a good rotary mower, check Consumer Reports Magazine. They have good ratings regarding the mowing/mulching/bagging abilities. The Honda mentioned is probably a good one although there are several cheaper mowers that mow as well or better. The key to a good cut with a rotary is to keep the blade sharp! Easiest way to do this is to buy a spare blade so you can swap as needed.

[kmbrandon]

Speaking of blade sharpening, does anyone do their own lawn mower blade sharpening? How often do you sharpen if you do your own?

I've got both high & low speed grinders. Also, mower blades don't have to be razor sharp anyway, just need a nice clean edge.


As for the mower, my dad had an older Murray that he has been storing for several years. I tuned it up & changed blades. Works OK for now, while I search for another. I definitely like the Honda engines & have been looking at those.

Keep the suggestions coming in. Hopefully, this hand me down mower will last thru this season & I can pick up a deal on a new one on clearance when the season ends. :D

[rschneider]

I've got a 20 year old 19" Honda & for my money you can't beat it. Now about mulching: I don't even use a mulching blade-not popular 20 years ago- & use a plastic milk jug for my plug in the back disposal chute opening. Works just fine. I use an el cheapo at my folks house dad got for like $99 at WalMart which is VERY light, Briggs engine, side discharge & works fine. The key to any of them is just don't let the grass grow too tall before mowing & the grass will sift down & decompose without all the fancy-schmancy gadgets you can buy. We are not suppose to be servants to our lawn care!
So long story short: just keep using the old Murray! Put your money into some ammendments if you want.
PS - I mow my bermuda 2 notches below max height early in the year & when it starts getting pretty warm, 1 notch below max height & have for 20+ years & it looks fine. I water maybe 3-4 times a year just to keep it green & healthy. If I wanted it to look lush, I could just water maybe once a week. Of course that also means more lawn cutting=more work :lol: . Height does equate to water usage!