Getting your lawn ready? Mower features to consider for a healthy summer lawn
Finally escaping winter dormancy, lawns awaken needing attentive care for lush summer growth. Proper mowing cultivates green, vibrant turfgrass. Endless mower options prioritize key features to enhance summer lawn health and prove to be essential. As spring planting wraps up, focus shifts to maintenance mode relying on equipment up for the job.
Solid cutting deck construction
A mower’s cutting deck houses the business end—spinning blades slicing through grass. Durability trumps all else with decks needing to withstand years of wear. Look for rugged welded steel or cast aluminum materials plus rust-resistant finishes that sustain season-after-season of grass clippings and moisture. Anti-clog designs help avoid buildup/jams when mowing summer’s thicker turf. And sufficient clearance means freely discharging clippings even at higher cut heights while preventing deck scraping. Sturdy deck materials stand the test of time.
Adjustable cutting height
Varying summer sun and rain patterns change ideal heights for healthy grass. Using the same setting regardless of conditions leads to struggling lawns. Being able to tailor cut levels prevents scalping grass during heat waves or missing growth after downpours. Multiple presets allow customization, though at least central levers offer efficient height changes. Target keeping cool season Northern grasses around 3 inches, adjusting up/down given moisture or growth. Year-round adaptability keeps lawns responding well.
High power rating
Thinner spring grass proves deceptively easy to mow. But summer brings dense maturing turfgrass, dense weeds and occasional neglected lawns you must power through. Review engine size ratings in torque or CC’s ensuring sufficient strength for taller/thicker grass. For large yards, self-propelled models and heavy-duty motors get the job done faster with less bogging. Don’t underestimate summer density overwhelming marginal mowers.
Ergonomic build
Mowing itself provides decent exercise when done periodically. But cumulative fatigue mowing expansive lawns every 5-7 days adds up quickly. Seek out ergonomic enhancements like adjustable padded handles, smooth easy-grip levers and lightweight deck construction avoiding back strain. Features that ease physical demands allow John Deere lawn mower longer with better results. Reduced vibration designs also decrease eventual joint/muscle soreness. Comfort mowing avoids dreading the chore.
Special features
Added versatility from smart accessory options optimizes a mower’s effectiveness maintaining pretty summer lawns:
- Dual-port mulching/side discharge prevents matted clippings while returning nutrients.
- Grass catchers centralize clippings disposal/composting
- Built-in wash ports simplify clearing grass buildup under decks.
- Non-marring deck edging protects landscape beds/trees from scuffing damage.
The flexibility in customizing mowing setups for healthier grass growth is better. Consider extra capabilities enhancing usefulness beyond just cutting grass week to week.
Upgrading equipment this season? Seek out mowers with durable deck construction, variable cut settings, robust power and ergonomics for easing summer lawn care. Added versatility from specialized functions increases overall value as well. Keep lawns continually thriving with a mower equipped to master summer’s demands. Then relax and enjoy luscious green yards all season long knowing your turfgrass will flourish. Proper mowing practices combined with the right mower for the job will transform your lawn into a vibrant green carpet welcoming summer.