Maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn requires the right tools, and selecting the best lawn mower can make a significant difference.
The Australian climate and various types of terrain, from coastal regions to inland areas, mean that different mowers are suited to different lawns.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the types of lawn mowers available, key features to look for, and the best options for different lawn care needs in Australia.
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Types Of Lawn Mowers
Before deciding which lawn mower is best for your needs, it’s important to understand the different types of mowers available. Lawnmowers can be broadly classified into the following categories:
Push Lawn Mowers (Manual)
Push lawn mowers are the most basic type of mower, relying on the user’s muscle power to push the mower across the lawn.
They’re typically designed for smaller, flat lawns and are perfect for gardeners looking for a more environmentally friendly option.
Push mowers are also great for providing a natural, neat cut without requiring fuel or electricity.
Advantages:
- Environmentally friendly
- Low maintenance
- Ideal for smaller lawns
- Quiet and simple to use
Disadvantages:
- Labour-intensive
- Only suitable for smaller areas
Best For: Small, flat lawns in urban or suburban areas. They are well-suited for those who enjoy a bit of exercise while mowing their lawn.
Corded Electric Lawn Mowers
Corded electric mowers are a step up from push mowers, offering the convenience of electricity without the need for petrol or rechargeable batteries.
They’re perfect for homeowners who need more power than a manual mower but don’t want the hassle of refuelling a petrol mower.
However, the limitation of these mowers is that they need to be plugged into a power source, which may restrict the area you can cover.
Advantages:
- Environmentally friendly (no emissions)
- Quiet operation
- Low maintenance
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Disadvantages:
- Limited by the length of the extension cord
- It is not ideal for large lawns or areas far from power outlets.
Best For: Small to medium-sized lawns, particularly in urban areas or homes with easy access to electrical outlets.
Cordless Electric Lawn Mowers
Cordless electric mowers are similar to corded mowers, but they use rechargeable batteries.
These mowers are ideal for homeowners who want the power of electricity without the limitations of a cord.
They are becoming increasingly popular in Australia due to their portability and ease of use.
Advantages:
- Cordless, so there are no restrictions on mobility.
- Environmentally friendly (no emissions)
- Quiet operation
- Low maintenance
Disadvantages:
- Limited battery life, typically 30 to 60 minutes per charge
- Requires regular battery charging
- It is not suitable for very large lawns unless you have a second battery.
Best For: Medium-sized lawns or homeowners who need a lightweight and convenient mower with no cords. A great choice for those who need to mow small to medium-sized areas.
Petrol Lawn Mowers
Petrol-powered mowers are the traditional choice for lawn care. These mowers are known for their powerful engines and ability to tackle larger lawns with thick grass or uneven terrain.
While petrol mowers provide excellent performance, they require more maintenance and produce emissions.
Advantages:
- High power and durability
- Ideal for large lawns and tough grass
- Can handle uneven or hilly terrain
- No need to worry about battery life or electrical cords
Disadvantages:
- It requires regular maintenance (oil changes, air filter cleaning, etc.).
- Noisy operation
- Produces emissions
- More expensive to run due to fuel costs
Best For: Large lawns, areas with thick or tough grass, and hilly terrains where more power is needed.
Ride-On Lawn Mowers
Ride-on mowers are a heavy-duty option for larger properties. They allow the user to sit and ride while mowing the lawn, significantly reducing fatigue and the time spent mowing.
These mowers are ideal for expansive lawns or properties with a lot of obstacles, such as trees and flower beds.
Advantages:
- Ideal for very large lawns
- Comfort and ease of use, especially on larger properties
- Can cover large areas quickly
- It can be used for a variety of other tasks, such as towing garden equipment.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Requires more space for storage
- Not suitable for smaller lawns or tight spaces
Best For: Large properties or rural homes with expansive lawns. If you have more than half an acre of land, a ride-on mower will save you significant time and energy.
Robotic Lawn Mowers
Robotic mowers are the most modern option, offering high-tech solutions for lawn care. These mowers operate autonomously, mowing the lawn on their own while you relax or attend to other tasks.
They are perfect for tech-savvy homeowners who prefer to automate their lawn care.
Advantages:
- Fully automated and hands-off
- Ideal for smaller lawns
- Quiet operation
- Environmentally friendly
Disadvantages:
- Expensive upfront cost
- Requires a charging station
- Limited range and battery life
Best For: Smaller to medium-sized lawns where you want minimal effort and automation. They are great for tech enthusiasts who want to keep their lawns tidy without any manual work.
Key Features To Look For In A Lawn Mower
When choosing a lawn mower, there are several factors to consider, aside from the type of mower.
The right features can make a significant difference in the efficiency, convenience, and quality of your mowing experience. Here’s what to look out for:
Cutting Width And Height Adjustments
The cutting width determines how wide each pass will be. A wider cutting width means fewer passes and faster mowing, which is important for larger lawns.
Height adjustment is another important feature to consider. A mower that offers adjustable cutting heights gives you more flexibility to cater to different types of grass and seasonal changes.
Grass Collection Bag Or Mulching Capability
A grass collection bag allows you to collect the clippings for easy disposal, which helps keep your lawn neat.
Alternatively, a mulching mower cuts grass into fine pieces that are spread back on the lawn as a natural fertiliser.
Mulching mowers are great for promoting healthy grass growth and reducing the amount of waste you produce.
Ergonomics And Ease Of Use
Comfort is essential when choosing a lawn mower, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time mowing. Look for features such as adjustable handles, lightweight frames, and easy-to-use controls.
If you have any physical limitations or plan to mow large areas, consider a mower with features that reduce strain on your back and arms.
Durability And Quality Of Materials
Durability is crucial for a mower that will stand the test of time.
Look for a mower made from high-quality materials such as steel or aluminium for the body and strong, durable plastic for the collection bags.
A mower with a strong frame will ensure it lasts for many years and performs well in tough conditions.
Storage And Portability
If you have limited storage space, consider a lawn mower that is compact or foldable. Some mowers come with folding handles for easy storage in small sheds or garages.
If your lawn is on a slope, a lightweight model will be easier to manoeuvre and push.
Best Lawn Mowers For Australian Conditions
Australia’s unique climate, from the hot summers of Queensland to the cool winters of Tasmania, means that different mowers work better for different conditions.
Here are some of the best lawnmowers for Australian gardens:
Victa Mustang 160cc Petrol Mower
Victa is an iconic Australian brand known for its high-quality petrol mowers. The Mustang 160cc petrol mower is perfect for those with large lawns or tough grass.
It has a 48 cm cutting width, adjustable cutting heights, and a durable steel deck, making it ideal for Australian conditions.
Bosch Rotak 32 Cordless Electric Mower
The Bosch Rotak 32 is an excellent option for smaller lawns. This cordless electric mower provides powerful, quiet performance with a 32 cm cutting width.
It’s lightweight, easy to manoeuvre, and has a grass comb that cuts close to the edges, making it a great choice for urban backyards.
Husqvarna Lc 140s Petrol Mower
For larger properties or areas with thick grass, the Husqvarna LC 140S offers power and reliability. With a 40 cm cutting width and adjustable height, this mower is great for both small and medium-sized lawns.
Its durable build quality ensures it will handle Australian gardens with ease.
Honda Hru196m Petrol Mower
Honda is well-regarded for producing reliable and long-lasting lawnmowers.
The HRU196M model is designed for Australian lawns and features a powerful 190cc engine, a 19-inch cutting width, and a mulching function.
It’s perfect for homeowners looking for an easy-to-use, efficient mower for larger areas.
Conclusion
Choosing the best lawn mower for your garden depends on the size of your lawn, the type of grass, and your preferences regarding power source and features.
From manual push mowers to robotic and ride-on options, there’s a lawn mower to suit every need in Australia.
By understanding your lawn’s requirements and matching them to the right mower, you can ensure that your garden stays healthy and beautiful all year round.
Frequently Ask Question
Should I Choose A Mower With A Mulching Function?
A mower with a mulching function is a great choice if you want to return nutrients to your lawn.
Mulching mowers chop grass clippings into fine pieces that are returned to the soil, where they decompose and enrich the lawn.
This function can help reduce the amount of grass waste that needs to be disposed of and promote healthier, greener grass. It’s especially useful in warmer climates, where frequent mowing is required.
However, mulching mowers work best in dry, well-maintained lawns and may not be suitable for very wet or overgrown grass.
Are There Any Mowers Suitable For Wet Grass?
Mowing wet grass can be tricky and is generally not recommended, as it can damage the lawn and clog the mower.
However, some high-performance petrol mowers are equipped with advanced features like larger discharge chutes or more powerful engines, making them more capable of handling wet grass.
Cordless electric mowers may struggle in wet conditions, as moisture can affect the battery.
For wet lawns, ensure the mower you select has features like high-lift blades or a reinforced deck to prevent clumping and clogging.
How Often Should I Maintain My Lawn Mower?
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your lawn mower in good working order. After every few uses, clean the deck, check for any blockages, and sharpen the blades to ensure clean cuts.
For petrol mowers, change the oil, air filter, and spark plug annually. Battery-powered mowers should have their batteries checked regularly, with some models requiring a battery replacement every couple of years.
Ensure you check your mower’s manual for manufacturer-specific maintenance advice, and store it properly during the off-season to avoid rust and wear.