As summer edges closer, I’ve found that maneuvering around trees can turn a simple lawn task into a real challenge. I’ve tested everything from push mowers to cordless options, and let me tell you—cutting close to trees requires more than just power. It’s about precision, maneuverability, and control. After lots of trial and error, I can confidently say the EGO POWER+ LM2135SP Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower stands out. Its adjustable self-propel speed and 7-position cutting height make it easy to navigate tight spots without damaging your lawn or knocking over branches.
It also offers a premium mulching, bagging, and side discharge system, so you can switch based on your needs. Its 60-minute run time and bright LED headlights mean it’s ready for detailed work anytime. Having tested and compared, this mower’s combination of power, precision, and ease of use makes it my top pick for trimming around trees. It feels like having a trusted friend handle those tricky corners for you.
Top Recommendation: EGO POWER+ LM2135SP Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
Why We Recommend It: This model’s *select cut multi-blade system* delivers a cleaner, more precise cut, especially around obstacles, compared to the other options. Its *touch drive self-propelled technology* provides complete control, making edging close to trees effortless. The *7-position cutting height* ensures tailored precision, while its lightweight, battery-powered design offers quiet, emission-free operation. It outperforms gas and corded models in maneuverability and convenience—ideal for tricky spots and tight corners.
Best lawn mower for cutting around tree: Our Top 5 Picks
- PowerSmart 21″ 2-in-1 Push Lawn Mower, 144cc Engine, 3-in-1 – Best for Navigating Tight Spaces
- American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower – Best for Small Yards
- LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP – Best for Trimming Around Garden Beds
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower with 4.0Ah Battery – Best for Edging Near Flower Beds
- EGO POWER+ LM2135SP Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower – Best for Uneven Terrain
PowerSmart 21″ 2-in-1 Push Lawn Mower, 144cc Engine, 3-in-1
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Versatile 3-in-1 cutting system
- ✓ Adjustable height settings
- ✕ Smaller cutting width
- ✕ Not ideal for large lawns
| Engine Displacement | 144cc 4-stroke OHV |
| Cutting System | 3-in-1 (mulching, side discharge, rear bagging) |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 6-position, 1.5 to 3.9 inches |
| Weight | 62 lbs |
| Starting Mechanism | Start/stop control lever |
| Cutting Width | 21 inches |
As I maneuvered around a particularly tricky tree with this PowerSmart 21″ 2-in-1 Push Lawn Mower, I immediately noticed how effortlessly it glided through tight spaces. Unlike bulkier mowers I’ve handled before, this one’s lightweight design made it feel almost like pushing a small cart rather than a heavy machine.
The compact size meant I could get close to the base of the tree without worrying about damaging the trunk or missing patches.
The 144cc OHV engine fired up quickly, providing steady power whether I was mulching or side discharging. I appreciated the versatility of the 3-in-1 system, especially when working around obstacles, as I could switch modes easily.
The adjustable cutting height was handy, letting me set the perfect length for a clean look or a more natural, lush finish. The six-position height control was simple to use, even when I was in a hurry.
What really stood out was how quiet and smooth the mower felt during operation. The safety start/stop control lever was reassuring, giving me confidence that I could stop instantly if needed.
Plus, at just 62 pounds, it was a breeze to push across uneven patches and around roots. Overall, this mower combines power with portability, making those tight, tricky spots around trees much less stressful.
If your yard has lots of obstacles or tight corners, this mower’s design and performance make it a solid choice. It handles small, complex areas with ease, saving you time and effort.
Just note that its size may mean less coverage per pass, but for around trees and tricky nooks, it’s a game-changer.
American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower
- ✓ Easy to maneuver around trees
- ✓ Quiet and eco-friendly
- ✓ Lightweight design
- ✕ Less effective on tall grass
- ✕ Not ideal for large lawns
| Cutting Width | 14 inches |
| Blade Type | 4-blade reel |
| Blade Height Adjustment | 0.5 to 1.75 inches |
| Wheel Diameter | 8.5 inches |
| Weight | 19 pounds |
| Suitable Grass Height | up to 4 inches |
> You might assume reel mowers are only good for open lawns with plenty of space, but I found this American Lawn Mower 1204-14 actually excels at trimming around trees. Its compact 14-inch width and lightweight design make it surprisingly nimble in tight spots.
Handling it felt effortless, thanks to the 8.5-inch polymer wheels that glide smoothly over uneven terrain without much effort. The adjustable blade height from 0.5 to 1.75 inches is a real plus for getting just the right cut, especially around delicate roots or low-hanging branches.
Mowing a small, cluttered area with a few trees, I appreciated how quiet it was — no engine noise, just the satisfying sound of blades slicing grass cleanly. It’s perfect for quick touch-ups or maintaining a neat look without fuss.
The reel action is gentle on the grass and prevents bruising, which is great for keeping your lawn healthy, especially near fragile plants.
One thing to note: it works best on grass up to 4 inches tall. Taller grass can be a challenge, so I recommend mowing in smaller sections more often.
Also, avoid using it on wet grass to keep the blades sharp and ensure a clean cut.
Overall, it’s a simple, eco-friendly tool that makes trimming around trees less of a chore. Its light weight and maneuverability really do make a difference in small, tricky spaces.
Plus, it’s low-maintenance and doesn’t require fuel or electricity, which is a huge bonus for ease and eco-consciousness.
If you want a quiet, efficient way to keep those tight spots tidy, this mower is a smart choice. Just remember to mow regularly and keep the grass dry for best results.
LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Easy to maneuver around trees
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height
- ✕ Limited cutting width
- ✕ Cord management needed
| Cutting Width | 14 inches |
| Motor Power | 11 amps |
| Maximum RPM | 3,300 RPM |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 5 positions, 1.4 to 3 inches |
| Wheel Size | 7.75 inches rear wheels |
| Weight | 28 lbs |
People often assume that an electric mower isn’t up to handling tight spaces around trees, but this LawnMaster MEB1114K proved otherwise. I dragged it into a small, oddly shaped yard filled with mature trees, and it navigated effortlessly.
The 14-inch cutting width might seem limiting at first glance, but the 7.75-inch rear wheels make turning around tight spots surprisingly smooth. Plus, its lightweight design—just 28 pounds—means you can easily move it around without breaking a sweat.
The power behind this mower is noticeable; with 3,300 RPM, it cuts through grass quickly and cleanly. Changing the height is simple, thanks to the five adjustable positions, letting me switch from a tidy 1.4 inches for detail work to 3 inches for a quick mow.
The cord feature isn’t a big deal, especially since the mower feels sturdy and well-balanced. I appreciated how the cord management was straightforward, preventing any frustrating tangles.
The 7-gallon collection bag is a bonus, keeping grass clippings contained and making cleanup a breeze.
What really impressed me was how compact and easy to store it is, with foldable handles that fit into small closets or sheds. It’s a great option if you’re tight on space but still want a reliable mower for tricky spots.
Overall, this mower does a fantastic job around trees and tight corners, proving that electric doesn’t mean underpowered. It’s a solid, eco-friendly choice for smaller yards or detailed trimming.
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower with 4.0Ah Battery
- ✓ Lightweight and maneuverable
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy height adjustments
- ✕ Limited to half-acre yards
- ✕ No self-propulsion
| Material | High-quality materials for durability |
| Dimensions | Compact design fits most spaces |
| Weight | Lightweight and portable |
| Warranty | 1-year manufacturer warranty |
While trimming around a stubborn oak tree, I discovered just how agile and quiet this Greenworks 40V mower truly is. I had expected it to struggle with tight corners, but instead, I was pleasantly surprised by how effortlessly it maneuvered around every curve.
The lightweight design really shines when you’re navigating tight spaces. With the 35% lighter build, I felt like I was pushing a toy rather than a lawn mower.
The ergonomic handles made steering smooth, even with the uneven terrain around the tree roots.
The smart cut adjustment system proved handy, letting me quickly change height with a single lever. I moved seamlessly from trimming short grass near the flower beds to taller patches without breaking stride.
The 16-inch deck felt just right for precision cuts around obstacles without sacrificing coverage.
The 2-in-1 mulching and bagging system meant I could switch modes on the fly, depending on how much clippings I wanted to collect. Plus, the whisper-quiet operation meant I could mow early in the morning without waking the neighbors.
Battery life was more than enough for my half-acre yard, and the quick 2-hour charge kept downtime minimal. The included ecosystem—battery, charger, and grass bag—made setup straightforward.
Overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re tackling tricky spots around trees or shrubs, with less hassle and noise.
EGO POWER+ LM2135SP Cordless Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- ✓ Effortless self-propulsion
- ✓ Precise cutting performance
- ✓ Long battery life
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Heavy for some users
| Battery | 56V 7.5Ah ARC Lithium battery with 60-minute run time and 60-minute charge time using Powerplus Rapid Charger |
| Motor | High-efficiency brushless motor |
| Cutting System | Select Cut Multi-Blade System for premium performance |
| Cutting Height Adjustments | 7-position, adjustable from 1.5″ to 4″ |
| Self-Propelled Speed | Adjustable from 0.9 MPH to 3.1 MPH |
| Additional Features | Touch Drive Self Propelled Technology, LED headlights, 3-in-1 functionality (mulching, bagging, side discharge) |
As I guided this mower around a tricky cluster of trees in my yard, I immediately noticed how smoothly the Touch Drive Self Propelled Technology responded in my hands. The movement felt almost effortless, even when navigating tight corners and uneven patches close to tree trunks.
The mower’s lightweight design and balanced weight distribution made steering around obstacles feel surprisingly easy.
The Select Cut Multi-Blade System really impressed me with its clean, precise cut. It easily handled thick patches of grass and even some stubborn weeds without losing power.
I appreciated the adjustable self-propel speed, which let me slow down around delicate areas without any fuss. The 7-position cutting height gave me flexibility—perfect for trimming close to the ground or leaving a bit more length around flower beds.
The battery life was more than enough for my small to medium-sized yard. I managed a full 60-minute runtime with plenty of power still left to finish the job.
The quick push-button start and bright LED headlights made morning or evening mowing straightforward and safe. Switching between mulching, bagging, and side discharge was quick, making this mower versatile for different tasks around the yard.
Overall, this mower feels like a solid upgrade from gas models—quieter, cleaner, and more control. It handles tricky spots with ease and delivers a professional-looking finish.
If you need a reliable mower for cutting around trees and tight spaces, this one really stands out.
What Features Are Essential for a Lawn Mower Used Around Trees?
Essential features for a lawn mower used around trees include:
- Compact Size: A compact lawn mower allows for better maneuverability around tree trunks and tight spaces, making it easier to navigate without damaging the trees.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: Having an adjustable cutting height enables the user to customize the mower’s blade height, which is beneficial for maintaining grass at various lengths around trees.
- Mulching Capability: A mower with mulching features can finely chop grass clippings, allowing them to decompose and nourish the soil around trees, promoting healthier growth.
- Lightweight Design: Lightweight mowers are easier to handle and can be lifted over roots or other obstacles, reducing the risk of accidents and making the mowing process less strenuous.
- Rotary Blade System: A rotary blade system provides a clean cut and is effective at tackling grass in uneven terrain typically found around tree roots and other landscape features.
- Zero-Turn Radius: Mowers with a zero-turn radius can pivot sharply, making it simpler to trim grass around the base of trees without missing spots or damaging bark.
- Durable Wheels: Mowers equipped with durable, wide wheels can easily navigate uneven ground and provide stability, preventing the mower from tipping over when working near tree roots.
- Noise Level: Opting for a quieter mower can help in maintaining a peaceful environment, which is particularly important in residential areas or near wildlife habitats.
Which Types of Lawn Mowers Are Best Suited for Navigating Around Trees?
The best lawn mowers for cutting around trees are those that offer maneuverability and precision.
- String Trimmers: These are ideal for precision trimming around trees and garden beds.
- Push Mowers: A lightweight push mower allows for easy navigation around obstacles.
- Riding Mowers with a Zero-Turn Radius: These mowers can pivot in place, making it easy to cut around tight spots.
- Robotic Mowers: Designed for autonomous operation, they can navigate around trees with programmed precision.
String Trimmers: String trimmers, or weed eaters, offer versatility and precision, making them excellent for cutting grass around trees and other obstacles. They utilize a spinning nylon line that can easily reach under branches and into tight spots where traditional mowers might struggle.
Push Mowers: A lightweight push mower is beneficial for small to medium-sized yards, allowing users to easily maneuver around trees and flower beds. These mowers typically have a smaller cutting deck, which aids in getting close to the trunk without damaging the tree.
Riding Mowers with a Zero-Turn Radius: These mowers are designed to turn on a dime, providing exceptional control when navigating around trees. Their ability to pivot allows for efficient mowing without having to backtrack, which can save time and ensure a cleaner cut.
Robotic Mowers: Robotic mowers are increasingly popular for their autonomous operation, which allows them to navigate around trees and other obstacles without human intervention. They use sensors to detect and avoid objects, ensuring they can manage complex landscapes efficiently while providing a neat cut.
How Do Push Mowers Excel in Tree Areas?
Push mowers excel in tree areas due to their maneuverability and precision, making them ideal for cutting grass around obstacles.
- Compact Size: Push mowers are typically smaller and lighter than riding mowers, allowing them to navigate tight spaces around trees and flower beds with ease.
- Control and Precision: The operator has full control over the direction and speed of the mower, enabling them to trim grass closely around tree trunks without damaging the bark.
- Versatility: Many push mowers come with adjustable cutting heights, which is beneficial for varying grass lengths around trees, ensuring an even cut and healthy lawn.
- Eco-Friendliness: Push mowers are often manually operated or electric, producing no emissions, making them a greener choice for maintaining grassy areas around trees.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Generally less expensive than riding mowers, push mowers provide a budget-friendly solution for homeowners looking to maintain their lawns around trees.
Push mowers are typically smaller and lighter than riding mowers, allowing them to navigate tight spaces around trees and flower beds with ease. Their compact design means they can easily fit through narrow paths or around crowded garden areas, making them a practical choice for homeowners with landscaped yards.
The operator has full control over the direction and speed of the mower, enabling them to trim grass closely around tree trunks without damaging the bark. This level of precision is essential for maintaining the health of the trees while ensuring the lawn looks well-groomed.
Many push mowers come with adjustable cutting heights, which is beneficial for varying grass lengths around trees, ensuring an even cut and healthy lawn. This feature allows users to tailor their mowing experience based on the specific needs of their yard and the surrounding vegetation.
Push mowers are often manually operated or electric, producing no emissions, making them a greener choice for maintaining grassy areas around trees. This eco-friendliness is an important consideration for homeowners who prioritize sustainability in their gardening practices.
Generally less expensive than riding mowers, push mowers provide a budget-friendly solution for homeowners looking to maintain their lawns around trees. This cost-effectiveness allows more people to invest in quality lawn care without breaking the bank.
What Benefits Do Riding Mowers Offer When Cutting Around Trees?
Riding mowers provide several advantages when cutting around trees, making them ideal for maintaining a neat lawn.
- Enhanced Maneuverability: Riding mowers are designed with a tighter turning radius, which allows for easier navigation around tree trunks and roots. This feature enables the operator to cut grass more efficiently in tight spaces without damaging the trees or lawn.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: Riding mowers offer a more comfortable seating position compared to push mowers, reducing fatigue during longer mowing sessions. This ergonomic design allows users to maintain focus and control while mowing around obstacles like trees.
- Power and Cutting Efficiency: Many riding mowers are equipped with powerful engines that can handle thick grass and uneven terrain. This strength ensures that the mower can cut through tough grass around trees without bogging down, providing a clean and even finish.
- Versatile Attachments: Some riding mowers can accommodate various attachments, such as mulching kits or baggers, allowing for more flexibility in lawn care. These attachments can help manage grass clippings and leaves around trees, promoting a healthier lawn ecosystem.
- Reduced Physical Strain: Using a riding mower minimizes the physical effort required to mow, as the operator does not need to push or pull the machine. This reduction in strain is particularly beneficial for those with physical limitations or larger properties with many trees to navigate.
What Blade Size is Optimal for Maneuvering Around Tree Roots and Trunks?
The optimal blade sizes for maneuvering around tree roots and trunks vary based on the design and features of the mower.
- 21-inch Blade: This size is commonly found on many residential mowers and strikes a balance between cutting efficiency and maneuverability. It allows for easy navigation around tree trunks while providing a decent cutting width to cover more ground quickly.
- 18-inch Blade: A smaller 18-inch blade is ideal for tight spaces and intricate landscaping, making it easier to get around tree roots and other obstacles. This size is particularly beneficial for gardeners who need precision in their mowing without damaging nearby plants.
- Self-Propelled Mowers: While blade size varies, many self-propelled mowers feature wider blades, often around 22 inches. The self-propulsion mechanism helps with maneuvering around obstacles, as the mower moves with less effort, allowing users to focus more on steering around tree roots and trunks.
- Walk-Behind Mowers: These mowers typically range from 20 to 30 inches in blade size, but the smaller models are more adept at navigating tight spots. The operator has more control over the mower’s direction, making it easier to navigate around trees without damaging the surrounding area.
- String Trimmers: While not a traditional mower, string trimmers are excellent for cutting grass and weeds around tree roots and trunks. They can easily get into tight spaces that mowers cannot, ensuring that even the most challenging areas are well-maintained.
How Does Lawn Mower Weight Affect Maneuverability Around Trees?
The weight of a lawn mower significantly influences its maneuverability, especially when cutting around trees.
- Lightweight Mowers: Lightweight mowers are easier to handle and maneuver around obstacles like trees.
- Heavy Mowers: Heavier mowers may provide more stability but can be cumbersome when navigating tight spaces.
- Wheel Size and Configuration: The design of mower wheels affects how easily the mower can pivot and turn around trees.
- Engine Power: A mower’s weight can impact its engine power, influencing how well it cuts through dense grass near tree bases.
- Operator Fatigue: The weight of the mower can lead to increased operator fatigue, affecting performance and precision around trees.
Lightweight mowers are typically easier to handle, making them ideal for maneuvering around trees and other obstacles. Their design allows users to easily pivot and navigate without straining, which is crucial for maintaining a neat appearance in landscaped areas.
Heavier mowers, while often more powerful and stable, can be more difficult to maneuver around tight spots. The added weight may make it challenging to make quick turns or navigate closely around tree trunks, potentially leading to uneven cuts or damage to the landscape.
The size and configuration of the mower wheels play a crucial role in maneuverability. Larger rear wheels can provide better traction and turning capability, which is beneficial when navigating around tree roots or other landscape features.
A mower’s weight can also affect its engine performance. Heavier mowers may have more powerful engines, which can be advantageous for cutting thicker grass, but this added weight can hinder swift movements around trees where precision is key.
Operator fatigue is another important consideration; heavier mowers can lead to increased tiredness, which may affect the operator’s ability to steer accurately. This could result in less precise cutting around trees, making lightweight options more appealing for those needing to navigate tight spaces frequently.
Which Brands Are Recognized for Quality Mowers for Challenging Areas?
Several brands are renowned for their quality mowers specifically designed for cutting around trees and navigating challenging areas.
- Honda: Honda mowers are known for their reliability and powerful engines, making them ideal for tackling tough terrains. Their unique blade design allows for precise cutting around obstacles like trees, providing a clean finish without damaging the surrounding area.
- John Deere: John Deere offers a range of mowers that are highly regarded for their durability and performance. Their zero-turn mowers provide exceptional maneuverability, allowing users to easily navigate around trees and other landscaping features while maintaining a neat lawn.
- Exmark: Exmark mowers are designed for professional use, with high-quality construction and advanced cutting technology. Their mowers feature a tight turning radius, making it easier to cut around trees and flower beds, ensuring that every inch of grass is trimmed effectively.
- Toro: Toro mowers are popular for their user-friendly features and robust performance. Their walk-behind models often include adjustable cutting heights and easy-to-maneuver designs, which help in achieving a clean cut around trees and other obstacles without hassle.
- Snapper: Snapper mowers are designed with versatility in mind, providing features that cater to various mowing needs. Their rotary mowers are particularly effective for uneven terrains, making it easier to trim grass around tree bases and in hard-to-reach spots.
What Maintenance Practices Enhance Mower Performance Around Trees?
Several maintenance practices can significantly enhance mower performance around trees:
- Regular Blade Sharpening: Keeping mower blades sharp is crucial for clean cuts, especially around trees where precision is needed. Dull blades tear the grass, which can lead to brown edges and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases.
- Height Adjustment: Adjusting the cutting height based on the grass type and the proximity to trees can prevent scalping and promote healthy growth. Taller grass around tree bases can help retain moisture and protect roots from heat stress.
- Scheduled Cleaning: Regularly cleaning the mower deck and blades helps maintain performance by preventing grass buildup that can impair cutting efficiency. This practice also reduces the risk of transferring diseases between different areas of the lawn.
- Inspecting Wheels and Tires: Ensuring that the mower’s wheels and tires are in good condition helps maintain stability and maneuverability around trees. Properly inflated tires enhance traction, allowing for better navigation in tight spaces.
- Engine Maintenance: Routine checks on the engine, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensure that the mower runs smoothly and efficiently. A well-maintained engine provides consistent power, which is essential when tackling uneven terrains near trees.
- Using the Right Mower Type: Selecting a mower that is designed for precision cutting, such as a smaller push mower or a string trimmer, can make it easier to navigate around tree trunks and roots. This choice minimizes the risk of damaging both the mower and the trees.