The Best Lawnmower for the Job

• Rotary – Hand Pushed: This could be the lawnmower for you if you have to mow a relatively level lot that is an acre or less in size. Remember that they require extra effort to push and can be heavy at times.

• Rotary – Self Propelled: If you have a larger lawn, a sloped lawn, or need assistance in mowing, the self-propelled may be your answer. They move by their own power and all you have to do is walk behind and guide them. They offer a nice benefit for those who want to lighten the load of hand pushed mowers.

• Rotary – Riding: Riding mowers are generally used on lawns that are one acre or more in size. The operator is usually seated on top and they operate much like a tractor. They generally require larger storage space, are less mobile for travel, and cost quite a bit more then their hand-pushed and self-propelled counterparts.

• Reel-type mower: Although you won’t see these push version as often, don’t discount their usefulness. They are quiet and nonpolluting, cut closer to the ground and give your lawn a cleaner look. However, unless you like a good workout, have a level lawn, or live on a putting green, reel mowers are not commonly used on lawns larger than a quarter acre in size or that take more than an hour to mow.

• Mulching — cuts grass clippings into fine pieces that can help fertilize your lawn. No bagging of clippings is required.
• Rear Bagger — collects clippings for an immaculate lawn. A rear bag is preferable to a side bag for use around fences, trees and other obstacles.
• Side Discharge — clippings are dispersed back onto the lawn. Use if you have few obstacles to deal with or to cut high grass.
• Convertible or 3-In-1 — can be converted from side discharge to rear bagger. A 3-in-1 lawn mower is capable of performing mulching, bagging and side discharge functions.
• Assembled in Carton — just add gasoline, oil and start. (Models with bag and/or high wheels may require minimal assembly.)