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I've got about 1/2 acre, but less than half of that is grass. I use an old Lawnboy 21" push (not self propelled). It takes me 45'-1hr when I'm mulching. Bagging takes almost double.
I recommend you keep it as simple as possible. My neighbors amaze me with $500-800 self propelled walk behinds and riders for more. Many don't take good care of the machines and end up replacing in 3-4yrs. You can buy a decent 22" for as little as $150 that should last 5-10yrs with maintenence. Likely longer. A basic Honda or Toro, or whatever Consumer's Report likes should last at least double that, and keep you under $500.
I only bag the last cut of the year in late Nov or Dec, when I want to suck up the last of the leaves and debris in the grass. Also first cut of the year for the same reason, winter debris. I may bag if cottonwood comes down several inches thick, or lots of other junk in yard. Nice to have this option.
My most important factors in a good lawn:
Sharp blade. I take the blade off and put it on a grinding wheel once a year. Several times during the year, I give it a once over with a file while still on the mower.
Cut High. I set my Lawnboy to highest setting, except for first and last cut of year. This gives me 3-3 1/2", I'd like another 1/2". Longer cut is better for the grass, cuts down it's urge to grow, and provides shade for the roots. I've also heard the recommendation that you only take 1/3 the length of the grass when you cut, so if you cut to 2", then should cut at 3". If 3"-4 1/2, etc. I actually cut about 1/2 the length of the blade, or 2-3". Point is the longer you cut it the longer you can let it grow.
Mulch. For the reasons given of fertilization, moisture absorption, thatch control, and keeping our landfills for other trash. Also is a heck of a lot easier. If the lawn gets away from you due to rain or vacation, use a side discharge. Works just as well as mulching, but doesn't clog up with high grass. Even if you have to go over the yard twice to chop up the grass it is faster than bagging.
Keep fertilization to a minimum. In my area, Ohio, I fertilize 2-4 times per year. Pre-emergent April 1, spring late May, Fall Sept, Late Fall Nov. If you buy a good broadcast spreader, it is an easy job, and you will pay for it the first year of ownership, if you have a service fertilize.
I appreciate the excercise I get when mowing the grass. I also like the light easy to maneuver tendencies of these mowers. Even if you go to a rider or bigger walk behind, you can still use this as a trim mower. And it is a lot cheaper way to find out what you really like in a mower for the next time.
posted by 159.116.253...
, Tue, 11 May 2004 14:23:10
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