Keeping an emerald green and healthy lawn can be maintained without loud engines, costly fuel, or cumbersome machinery. Reel mowers are environmentally friendly, efficient, and thus are one of the few solutions available to homeowners who want simplicity and green-living options. This guide will take you through everything about reel mowers—from how they work, their benefits, and tips for keeping the yard in tip-top shape. Whether a guru of gardening or entering homeowner territory for the first time, this one-stop resource guide will assess the role of reel mowers in your lawn care.
Understanding Reel Mowers
Reel-type mowers are manual lawn tools that use a set of helical blades spinning vertically to cut grass. The moving action of the mower does all the work. A lovely fit for an environmentally friendly being and having low maintenance, reel-type mowers are famed for providing a clean, scissor-like cut that is easy on the grass and promotes good lawn health. Considered best for small to medium-sized lawn areas, they are best suited for even terrain and are unsuitable for heavy or overgrown grass.
What is a Reel Lawn Mower?
A reel mower is a manual and green tool for cutting grass using a set of sharp blades rotating about a vertical axis. The blades cut vertically in synchronization with a stationary horizontal bar, offering a scissor-like action with precision, which favors healthier grass growth.
Key Features of Reel Mowers:
- 5 to 7 slender steel blades that offer durability
- Cut width: 14 to 20 inches for efficient mowing
- Optimal grass height: 1 to 3 inches
- Best terrain: Flat surfaces
- Lifespan: Over 10 years with proper maintenance
They work best with grass types including Bermuda, Zoysia, and Bluegrass, which all do very well with a clean cut from a reel mower. Modern engineering has produced many adjustable reel mowers with ergonomic handles and rust-resistant finishes designed for comfort and longevity.
How Reel Mowers Work
Reel mowers are uniquely engineered with a simple but highly effective mechanical design. Their cutting action is by means of a rotating cylinder or reel fitted with curved blades that pass over a stationary horizontal blade called the bed knife.
- Scissor-like action: Provides crisp and clean cuts
- Natural cutting method: Reduces chance of diseases
- Adjustable cutting height: From half an inch to several inches
- Ergonomic design: Lightweight and stress-free operation
The reel mower is meant for grass up to 4 inches high and works best on areas up to 10,000 square feet when maintained regularly. The precision cut keeps water within the grass and limits brown tip visibility, greatly increasing lawn appearance and building environmental sustainability through stronger root systems.
Differences Between Reel and Rotary Mowers
| Parameter | Reel Mower | Rotary Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Cut Type | Scissor-like | Impact-based |
| Grass Type | Fine, short | All types |
| Height | Low only | Adjustable |
| Terrain | Flat, small | Uneven, large |
| Maintenance | Regular sharpening | Easier sharpening |
| Noise | Quiet | Noisy |
| Eco-Friendliness | High (manual) | Moderate (gas/electric) |
| Cost | Lower (manual) | Higher |
| Usage | Precision lawns | General lawns |
Benefits of Using Reel Mowers
Environmental Advantages of Reel Lawn Mowers
Reel mowers provide exceptional ecological benefits, making them excellent choices for environmentally conscious gardeners:
- Zero emissions: Unlike gas mowers, reel mowers produce no air pollution
- Energy conservation: No fuel or electricity required
- Noise reduction: Mechanical operation is much quieter than gas-powered alternatives
- Waste reduction: Durable design reduces landfill waste
Health Benefits of Mowing with a Push Reel Mower
Working with a reel mower offers significant physical and mental health benefits:
Physical Benefits:
- Calorie burn: 200-400 calories per mowing session
- Full-body workout: Engages arms, core, and legs
- Low-impact exercise: Similar to brisk walking or slow jogging
- Joint-friendly: No motor vibrations
Mental Health Benefits:
- Stress relief: Rhythmic mowing action promotes mindfulness
- Vitamin D exposure: Outdoor activity in sunlight
- Reduced cortisol: Connection with nature lowers stress hormones
- Sense of accomplishment: Satisfaction from yard work
Cost Efficiency and Maintenance
Push reel mowers represent the most economical lawn care solution:
- No fuel costs: Americans pay $2.50-$5.00 per gallon for gasoline
- Minimal maintenance: Only periodic blade sharpening required
- Low repair costs: Fewer mechanical parts to maintain
- Long-term savings: No oil changes, spark plugs, or tune-ups needed
Comparing Mower Types
| Type | Best For | Power | Terrain | Cost | Maintenance | Ease |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ride-On | Large lawns | Gas/Electric | Flat/Open | High | Moderate | High |
| Walk-Behind | Small lawns | Gas/Electric | Flat | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Push (Reel) | Small lawns | Manual | Flat | Low | Low | Low |
| Self-Propelled | Medium lawns | Gas/Electric | Hilly | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Robotic | All lawns | Electric | All | High | Low | High |
Reel Mowers vs. Gas Powered Lawn Mowers
| Parameter | Reel Mowers | Gas Mowers |
|---|---|---|
| Power | Manual | Gasoline |
| Best For | Small lawns | Large lawns |
| Terrain | Flat | All |
| Eco-Friendly | Yes | No |
| Noise | Low | High |
| Cost | Low | Moderate-High |
| Maintenance | Low | High |
| Cut Quality | Precise | Moderate |
Maintenance Tips for Reel Mowers
Proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your reel mower:
| Parameter | Maintenance Tip |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | Remove debris after each use |
| Lubrication | Oil moving parts regularly |
| Sharpening | Sharpen blades annually |
| Alignment | Check blade height settings |
| Storage | Store in dry, covered area |
| Inspection | Check for damage regularly |
Sharpening the Blades
Proper blade sharpening is vital for optimal reel mower performance:
- Gather supplies: Reel mower sharpening kit with lapping compound
- Prepare mower: Detach wheels or gears for safe blade access
- Apply compound: Spread lapping compound evenly on blades
- Sharpen: Glide blades backward using the handle
- Test: Check for smooth operation and clean cuts
Adjusting Cutting Height and Roller Settings
Proper height adjustment is essential for healthy lawn maintenance:
Grass-Specific Height Recommendations:
- Cool-season grasses (Kentucky Bluegrass): 2.5-3.5 inches
- Warm-season grasses (Bermuda): 1-2 inches
Adjustment Process:
- Locate adjustment levers near the wheels
- Ensure all wheels are set to the same height
- Make gradual changes over several mowings
- Test cut quality and adjust as needed
Buying a Reel Mower
Before purchasing a reel mower, consider these essential factors:
- Lawn Size: Best suited for small to medium-sized lawns
- Grass Type: Check cutting capacity for your specific grass variety
- Cutting Width & Height: Wider blades cut faster; adjustable height accommodates different grass lengths
- Ease of Use: Look for ergonomic handles and lightweight design
- Maintenance: Choose durable materials and easy-to-sharpen blades
Top Brands: American Lawn Mower Company and Toro
| Parameter | American Lawn Mower Co. | Toro |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Manual, eco-friendly | Gas/Electric |
| Best For | Small lawns | All lawn sizes |
| Power | Manual | Gas/Electric |
| Durability | High | Very high |
| Cost | Low | Moderate-High |
| Maintenance | Low | Moderate |
What to Look for When Buying a Reel Mower
Cutting Width and Height Adjustments
Reel mowers come in various cutting widths, typically ranging from 14 to 20 inches. Consider your yard size and maneuverability needs when selecting width.
Number of Blades
- 7-10 blade configurations: Provide finer cuts for dense grasses
- 4-5 blade models: Sufficient for thinner grass types
Construction and Durability
Look for high-quality materials such as:
- Steel alloy blades
- Rust-resistant coatings
- Reinforced ball bearings in wheels
Weight and Maneuverability
- Lightweight models (under 25 pounds): Easier to push and maneuver
- Heavier models: Provide more stability but require additional effort
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using a reel mower for lawn care?
Reel mowers provide a clean, precise cut that promotes healthy grass growth, operate quietly, require no gas engine, and are eco-friendly options with minimal maintenance requirements.
How do I sharpen the blades of my reel lawn mower?
Sharpen blades by removing the reel and using a specialized sharpening tool or file. A well-maintained cutting cylinder enhances performance and ensures clean grass cutting. This can be done at home or by professionals.
Can a reel mower handle tall grass?
Reel mowers may struggle with grass taller than 4 inches. For optimal performance, mow when grass is shorter. For taller grass, consider using a rotary mower or cutting in stages.
What is the cutting width of a typical reel mower?
Reel mowers typically range from 14 to 20 inches in cutting width, allowing efficient mowing of small to medium-sized lawns.
How does a reel mower compare to a rotary mower?
Reel mowers provide a scissor-like cut beneficial for maintaining healthy grass, while rotary mowers use spinning blades that can tear grass. Reel mowers are better for well-maintained, shorter grass, while rotary mowers are more versatile for various lawn conditions.
Are gas-powered mowers better than reel mowers?
Gas-powered mowers offer more power for larger, uneven lawns or thicker grass. However, reel mowers are quieter, environmentally friendly, and require less effort for smaller, well-kept lawns. The choice depends on your specific lawn needs and maintenance preferences.
Reference Sources
-
Reel Mowers: Getting Better Every Year
Michigan State University Archive
This document discusses advancements in reel mower technology and their applications. -
Toward Net Zero: Strategic Integration of Electric Mowers into Landscape Maintenance Operations
University of Maryland Digital Repository
This paper explores the use of electric reel mowers in sustainable landscaping. -
Mowing Turfgrasses in the Desert
University of Arizona Extension
This guide provides insights into the use of reel mowers for specific grass types and conditions.
