Choosing the Best Type of Lawnmower for Your Garden

When it comes to choosing the right lawn mower for your garden, several factors should guide your decision. The type of lawn you have, its purpose, and the specific needs of your outdoor space all play a crucial role. Whether you’re aiming for a fine, stripey lawn or a more practical area where your kids and pets can play, the right lawn mower can make all the difference. 

Understanding the Purpose of Your Lawn

The first thing to consider is the purpose of your lawn. Are you looking to create a pristine, stripey lawn that could be used for croquet or other formal activities? Or do you need a general lawn that enhances your garden’s beauty and serves as a durable play area for kids and pets? The intended use of your lawn will significantly influence the type of lawnmower that best suits your needs.

Fine Lawns: The Cylinder Mower Advantage

If your goal is to maintain a fine lawn with a lush, manicured appearance, a cylinder mower is the ideal choice. Cylinder mowers cut the grass in a scissor-like fashion, offering a precise and clean cut that is perfect for maintaining the evenness and fine texture of lawns composed of grasses like red fescue and agrostis grasses. These grasses tend to creep and can be cut too aggressively with a rotary mower, leading to a thinner lawn or grass sward.

With a cylinder mower, you can achieve a lower cut, which is often desired for fine lawns. However, it’s important to note that cylinder mowers require more time for each cut and demand regular maintenance to keep the blades in top condition. Additionally, these mowers need to be used more frequently to maintain the desired lawn quality.

General Lawns: The Practicality of Rotary Mowers

For a general-purpose lawn that will endure regular foot traffic, children’s play, and pets, a rotary mower is likely a better option. Rotary mowers are designed to suck up and cut the grass, making them suitable for tougher, more durable lawns. They can handle higher grass cuts and require less frequent mowing, making them a practical choice for busy homeowners.

Rotary mowers such as mountfield mowers are also easier to maintain, with little to no setup required before each use. This convenience is particularly beneficial if you have limited time to dedicate to lawn care. Additionally, if you’re looking to incorporate clover into your lawn—a popular choice for reducing mowing frequency and creating a greener space during hot summers—a rotary mower will handle this well.

Considering Your Lawn’s Terrain

The aspect and terrain of your lawn should also influence your choice of mower. Cylinder mowers are not particularly well-suited for slopes or uneven lawns. Their design makes them difficult to manoeuvre on hilly or bumpy terrain, which can lead to an uneven cut. On the other hand, rotary mowers, which are typically built on four wheels or a combination of wheels and a roller, are much easier to use on sloped or uneven ground.

Choosing the Right Power Source

Another crucial factor to consider when selecting a lawnmower is the power source. The three main options—petrol, battery, and electric (by cable)—each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Petrol Mowers

Advantages:

• Powerful and capable of handling large lawns and tougher grass.
• No need to worry about charging; simply refuel as needed.
• Typically offers longer run times compared to battery-operated models.

Disadvantages:

• Heavier and more difficult to manoeuvre, especially in smaller spaces.
• Requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and spark plug replacements.
• Noisy and emits fumes, which can be a drawback in residential areas.

Battery-Operated Mowers

Advantages:

• Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, making them ideal for small to medium-sized lawns.
• Quieter than petrol mowers, making them suitable for residential areas.
• No emissions, making them an environmentally friendly choice.

Disadvantages:

• Limited run time based on battery life; may require recharging during use for large lawns.
• Battery replacement can be costly over time.
• Less powerful than petrol mowers, which can be a limitation for dense or tall grass.

Electric (by Cable) Mowers

Advantages:

• Lightweight and easy to handle, particularly in smaller gardens.
• Continuous power supply as long as it’s plugged in—no need to worry about running out of fuel or battery life.
• Quieter operation and no emissions, making them environmentally friendly.

Disadvantages:

• Limited by the length of the power cable, which can be cumbersome and restrict mobility.
• Not suitable for large lawns unless an extension cord is used, which can be inconvenient.
• Potential safety hazard due to the risk of cutting the power cable while mowing.

Choosing the right lawn mower for your garden is a decision that should be based on the specific characteristics and needs of your lawn. Whether you opt for a cylinder mower for that perfect fine lawn or a rotary mower for a more practical, durable space, understanding your lawn’s purpose and terrain is key. Additionally, considering the power source that best fits your lifestyle and lawn size will ensure that your mowing experience is as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

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