Imagine a lawn so perfectly manicured it looks like a putting green. That’s the dream for many Zoysia grass owners, and a reel mower can help make it a reality. But is a reel mower the right choice for your Zoysia? It’s a question many gardeners wrestle with. Zoysia grass is known for its dense, carpet-like growth, which can be tricky to cut cleanly. Choosing the wrong mower can leave your lawn looking ragged and uneven, which is frustrating and time-consuming to fix.
The good news is, with the right information, you can find a reel mower that will give your Zoysia the precise cut it needs. If you’re tired of battling uneven cuts or wondering if a reel mower is even suitable for your specific lawn, then this post is for you. We’ll dive deep into what makes a reel mower great for Zoysia and how to pick the best one for your yard. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of reel mowers and feel confident in choosing the perfect one to achieve that championship-level lawn.
Our Top 5 Reel Mower For Zoysia Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Reel Mower For Zoysia Detailed Reviews
1. American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower with Grass Catcher
Rating: 9.4/10
The American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower is a specialized tool for achieving a perfectly manicured lawn. This green mower is designed for those who love keeping their grass short and thick. It’s ideal for specific grass types like Bermuda, tiff, bent grass, and zoysia. If you have these types of grasses and enjoy a hands-on approach to lawn care, this mower offers a fantastic way to get that professional look.
What We Like:
- The 7-blade reel provides a clean, precise cut for specific grass types.
- It has a 16-inch cutting width, which is great for getting the job done efficiently.
- The newly designed 10-inch wheels offer excellent maneuverability around your lawn.
- You can easily adjust the cutting height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches to suit your needs.
- The heat-treated alloy steel blades are built to stay sharp for many years.
- The T-style handle with a cushioned grip ensures comfortable use.
- It comes with a grass catcher, so your lawn stays tidy.
What Could Be Improved:
- This mower is best suited for specific grass types, so it might not be the right choice for everyone.
- It requires manual effort, which might be a drawback for those looking for a powered mower.
This reel mower is a fantastic option for dedicated lawn enthusiasts who want a superior cut for their specialized grass. It offers precision and durability for a beautifully maintained yard.
2. Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of noisy gas mowers and messy oil changes? The Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower in sleek grey offers a refreshing change. This hand-push mower uses a clever reel system to cut your grass, giving you a clean and even finish. Its 16-inch cutting width means you can tackle your lawn efficiently. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for the environment!
What We Like:
- It’s a planet-friendly way to mow your lawn.
- The 7-blade ball bearing reel provides sharp, clean cuts.
- It works well on various grass types, including Bermuda and Zoysia.
- The adjustable cutting height lets you choose how tall your grass will be (0.5 to 2.5 inches).
- Durable steel side plates make it built to last.
- Composite wheels make it easy to push.
- It’s a great alternative to gas-powered mowers.
What Could Be Improved:
- It requires a bit more physical effort than a powered mower.
- May struggle with very tall or thick grass that hasn’t been cut in a while.
- The cutting width might be small for very large lawns.
This Earthwise reel mower is a smart choice for a well-maintained yard without the hassle of gas. It offers a clean cut and eco-friendly operation.
3. Fiskars Push Mower
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of dealing with gas cans, oil spills, and tangled cords? The Fiskars Push Mower offers a refreshing change. This 18-inch manual reel mower is your ticket to a greener, quieter lawn care routine. It’s designed for ease of use, making lawn maintenance a breeze without any motor noise or emissions. Plus, it handles all sorts of grass types, from delicate fescues to tough St. Augustine.
What We Like:
- It’s eco-friendly because it uses no gas, oil, or electricity.
- Pushing it is 60% easier than other reel mowers.
- The InertiaDrive Reel gives it double the cutting power.
- The StaySharp Cutting System means you never have to sharpen the blades.
- The grass chute can be moved to send clippings away from you.
- You can easily adjust the handle height for comfort.
- It cuts through tough grasses like St. Augustine and Bermuda.
- VersaCut technology lets you choose cut heights from 1 to 4 inches.
What Could Be Improved:
- This mower works best on lawns that are mowed regularly.
- It might struggle with very tall or thick grass that hasn’t been cut in a while.
- The 18-inch cut width is great for small to medium yards, but larger lawns will take longer.
For those seeking a simpler, more sustainable way to maintain their lawn, this Fiskars mower is an excellent solution. It delivers a clean cut and a great workout, all while being kind to the planet.
4. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
Rating: 8.9/10
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade offers a simple and effective way to keep your lawn looking its best. This mower is designed for smaller yards and provides a clean cut without the noise and fuss of gas-powered machines.
What We Like:
- It gives your grass a clean, scissor-like cut. This means no ripped or torn blades, leading to a healthier-looking lawn.
- It’s built for small lawns, making it just the right size for many yards.
- You can easily change the cutting height. There are 9 different positions from 1.1 inches up to 2.5 inches, so you can get the exact look you want.
- It’s very easy to move around. The 18-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels help you steer it smoothly around obstacles.
- This mower doesn’t need gas or batteries! It’s an eco-friendly choice that saves you money and effort.
- It’s made with strong steel blades that are built to last for many seasons.
- It comes with a handy collection bag to gather grass clippings.
What Could Be Improved:
- Push reel mowers can be harder to use on very thick or tall grass compared to powered mowers.
- It’s best suited for smaller lawns; larger yards would take a long time to mow.
- While durable, the cutting power depends on your pushing strength.
For those with smaller lawns seeking an eco-friendly and quiet mowing experience, the LawnMaster LMRM1801 is a solid choice. It delivers a clean cut and is easy to maneuver, making lawn care a breeze.
5. American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of noisy gas mowers and messy cords? The American Lawn Mower Company 1804-18 is a game-changer for your lawn care routine. This 18-inch reel mower offers a cleaner, greener way to achieve a perfectly manicured yard. Its five sharp blades work like scissors, giving your grass a neat, healthy cut every time. Plus, it’s super easy to adjust the cutting height, so you can match your lawn’s needs for any season. The comfy handle makes pushing it a breeze, and the included grass catcher keeps things tidy.
What We Like:
- The 18-inch cutting path covers a lot of ground fast.
- You can easily change the cutting height from a low ½ inch to a taller 2 ¾ inches.
- The U-style handle with a cushion grip makes mowing comfortable and easy on your hands.
- It’s eco-friendly and requires very little maintenance, saving you time and money.
- The grass catcher collects clippings neatly, making cleanup simple.
- It’s quiet and doesn’t pollute the air like gas mowers.
What Could Be Improved:
- Reel mowers can sometimes struggle with very tall or thick grass.
- You need to keep the blades sharp for the best cutting performance.
- It might require a bit more effort to push on uneven or bumpy lawns compared to a powered mower.
This reel mower offers a fantastic blend of performance and ease of use for a beautiful lawn. It’s a smart choice for anyone seeking a more enjoyable and environmentally friendly way to mow.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Reel Mower for Zoysia Grass
So, you’ve got a beautiful Zoysia lawn and you’re looking for the best way to keep it looking its best. A reel mower can be a fantastic choice for Zoysia. It cuts grass cleanly, which helps your grass stay healthy and green. This guide will help you pick the perfect reel mower for your Zoysia grass.
Key Features to Look For
1. Cutting Width
The cutting width is how wide the mower cuts with each pass. A wider mower cuts more grass at once. This means you’ll finish mowing faster. For most home lawns, a cutting width between 18 and 22 inches is a good choice. Smaller lawns might be fine with a 14-18 inch mower.
2. Cutting Height Adjustment
Zoysia grass likes to be cut fairly short. Look for a mower that lets you adjust the cutting height easily. You want to be able to set it to the right height for your Zoysia, usually between 1 and 2 inches. Some mowers have easy-to-use levers or dials for this.
3. Number of Blades
Reel mowers have spinning blades that cut the grass. More blades usually mean a cleaner cut. Most good reel mowers have 4 to 6 blades. A 5-blade reel is a popular choice because it gives a very clean cut without being too hard to push.
4. Wheel Type
The wheels help you push the mower. Large, sturdy wheels are better for rolling over uneven ground. Some mowers have rubber tires, which give good grip. Others have metal wheels, which can be good for tough grass.
5. Handle Comfort
You’ll be holding the handle for a while, so it should be comfortable. Look for padded handles or handles that are the right height for you. This makes mowing less tiring.
Important Materials
The materials used in a reel mower affect how long it lasts and how well it works.
1. Blade Material
The blades should be made of high-quality steel. Hardened steel blades stay sharp longer. This means you won’t have to sharpen them as often. Good blades make a big difference in how clean your grass is cut.
2. Frame Material
The mower’s frame should be strong and durable. Steel frames are common and strong. Some lighter-weight mowers might use aluminum, which is rust-resistant but might not be as sturdy.
3. Wheels and Rollers
Wheels are often made of rubber or metal. Rollers, which help guide the mower, are usually metal. These parts should be able to withstand regular use and different weather conditions.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a reel mower better or worse.
What Makes a Quality Mower:
- Sharp Blades: Sharp blades cut grass cleanly. This is very important for Zoysia.
- Smooth Rolling: A well-built mower rolls easily. It shouldn’t feel like you’re fighting it.
- Durable Construction: A mower built with strong materials will last many years.
- Easy Adjustments: Being able to change the cutting height quickly is a big plus.
What Reduces Quality:
- Dull Blades: Dull blades tear the grass. This can make your Zoysia look unhealthy and brown.
- Wobbly Frame: A mower that feels flimsy might not cut evenly.
- Hard to Push: If the mower is difficult to push, mowing becomes a chore.
- Rust: Mowers made with materials that rust easily won’t last long.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a reel mower feels to use and what it’s best for matters a lot.
Ease of Use
Reel mowers are generally easy to use, especially on flat lawns. They don’t require gas or electricity, making them eco-friendly. You just push them! They are also quieter than gas mowers.
Best For
- Small to Medium Lawns: Reel mowers are perfect for keeping smaller Zoysia lawns in top shape.
- Healthier Grass: The clean cut promotes healthy Zoysia growth.
- Environmentally Conscious Users: No fumes, no noise pollution.
- Exercise: Pushing a reel mower gives you a good workout!
Not Ideal For
- Very Large Lawns: Mowing a huge yard with a reel mower takes a lot of time and effort.
- Tall or Thick Grass: Reel mowers work best when the grass isn’t too long.
- Very Uneven Terrain: While they can handle some bumps, very bumpy lawns can be challenging.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why is a reel mower good for Zoysia grass?
A: A reel mower cuts Zoysia grass cleanly. This type of cut helps prevent disease and keeps the grass looking its best.
Q: Do reel mowers require maintenance?
A: Yes, reel mowers need some maintenance. You should keep the blades sharp and clean the mower after each use.
Q: Can I use a reel mower on a Zoysia lawn that has weeds?
A: Yes, you can. However, if the weeds are very tall and thick, it might be harder to cut. It’s best to keep the grass at a manageable height.
Q: How often should I mow my Zoysia with a reel mower?
A: Mow your Zoysia regularly, usually once or twice a week during the growing season. This helps maintain its ideal height.
Q: Are reel mowers hard to push?
A: Most modern reel mowers are designed to be easy to push, especially on flat, well-maintained lawns. Wider cutting decks and good wheels help.
Q: What is the best cutting height for Zoysia grass with a reel mower?
A: Zoysia grass typically does best when cut between 1 and 2 inches high. Check your specific Zoysia variety for the best recommendation.
Q: Do reel mowers collect grass clippings?
A: Most basic reel mowers do not have a grass catcher. The clippings are usually left on the lawn to decompose and act as fertilizer.
Q: How do I sharpen the blades on a reel mower?
A: You can sharpen them yourself with a sharpening kit, or take them to a professional service. Keeping them sharp is key to a good cut.
Q: Are there electric or battery-powered reel mowers?
A: While the classic reel mower is manual, some brands offer powered versions that combine the clean cut of a reel with motor assistance.
Q: Where can I buy a good reel mower for Zoysia grass?
A: You can find reel mowers at most home and garden stores, as well as online retailers. Look for reputable brands that specialize in lawn care equipment.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
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