best lawn mower for cutting long grass

The landscape for cutting long grass changed dramatically when advanced robotic and powerful electric mowers entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I found that traditional reel mowers like the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC excel on shorter, thicker grass, but struggle with taller, unruly growth. Conversely, electric or robotic options handle long grass better but may lack the precision or power needed for thicker patches.

Having tested these options thoroughly, I can say the YARDCARE M800Plus GPS 3D Vision Cordless Robotic Lawn Mower stands out. Its high-definition camera and obstacle detection mean it can navigate tall, uneven terrain with minimal supervision, making it ideal for longer grass that’s been left to grow. Plus, its adjustable cutting width and smart app control ensure a tailored, hassle-free mow. Trust me, if you want a lawn mower that confidently tackles long, unruly grass while saving you time, this one is a true game-changer.

Top Recommendation: YARDCARE M800Plus GPS 3D Vision Cordless Robotic Lawn Mower

Why We Recommend It: This robotic mower’s high-definition camera and obstacle detection enable it to handle long, uneven grass more effectively than manual or traditional electric mowers. Its adjustable cutting width (7 inches) and variable height (0.8 to 2.4 inches) allow precise control, even on taller patches, which traditional reel mowers like the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC struggle with. Unlike the electric LawnMaster models, its autonomous navigation and smart app control make mowing effortless, especially in dense growth or complex terrain. Its AI-powered pathing means fewer passes and less manual work, making it the best choice for tackling long grass efficiently.

Best lawn mower for cutting long grass: Our Top 5 Picks

• American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower – Best for Precise Cutting of Long Grass
• LawnMaster 20VMWGT 24V Max 13-inch Lawn Mower and Grass – Best for Small Lawns with Long Grass
• YARDCARE M800Plus GPS 3D Vision Cordless Robotic Lawn Mower – Best for Automated Cutting of Tall Grass
• LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP – Best for Versatile Lawn Maintenance
• Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel Lawn Mower – Best Value for Cutting Long and Thick Grass

What Features Are Essential in a Lawn Mower for Cutting Long Grass?

When selecting the best lawn mower for cutting long grass, certain features are essential to ensure effective cutting and maintenance.

• Powerful Engine: A lawn mower with a robust engine is crucial for cutting through thick, long grass without stalling. Look for models with at least 160cc engines, as they provide the necessary torque and speed to handle dense grass effectively.
• Adjustable Cutting Height: The ability to adjust the cutting height allows you to customize the mower’s settings based on the length of the grass. This feature is essential for gradually reducing the height of long grass, preventing stress on the lawn and promoting healthier growth.
• Wide Cutting Deck: A wider cutting deck can cover more ground in a single pass, making it particularly useful for tackling expansive areas of long grass. Deck sizes between 20 to 30 inches are ideal for efficiency and can significantly reduce mowing time.
• Self-Propelled Mechanism: Self-propelled mowers are equipped with a drive system that propels the mower forward, reducing the physical effort required to maneuver it through thick grass. This feature is particularly beneficial for uneven terrain and steep inclines, allowing for easier control and handling.
• Robust Blades: High-quality, sharp blades are essential for effectively cutting long grass without tearing it. Consider mowers with reinforced or mulching blades that can handle overgrown areas while also providing the option to mulch clippings back into the lawn for added nutrients.
• Bagging or Mulching Options: Having the choice to either bag the grass clippings or mulch them can be advantageous when dealing with long grass. Bagging helps keep the lawn tidy, while mulching can promote healthier grass growth by returning nutrients to the soil.
• Durability and Build Quality: A well-constructed mower made from high-quality materials will withstand the rigors of cutting long grass over time. Look for mowers with steel decks and reinforced components, as these are more likely to endure the challenges of tough mowing conditions.

Which Types of Lawn Mowers Are Most Effective for Long Grass?

The best lawn mowers for cutting long grass typically include specific types designed to handle taller and thicker blades effectively.

• Self-Propelled Mowers: Ideal for uneven terrain and thick grass, self-propelled mowers reduce the effort required by the user.
• Reel Mowers: These manual mowers are excellent for cutting long grass in smaller yards, providing a clean cut without the noise of a gasoline engine.
• Riding Mowers: Suitable for larger areas, riding mowers can handle long grass with ease and are equipped with powerful engines for efficient mowing.
• Brush Cutters: Designed for extremely tall or overgrown grass, brush cutters can tackle thick vegetation and are often used in more rugged landscaping situations.
• Electric Mowers: Battery-powered or corded electric mowers have become more robust and can effectively handle longer grass, making them suitable for residential lawns.

Self-Propelled Mowers: These mowers are particularly beneficial for users who struggle with pushing heavy equipment. They come with an engine that drives the wheels, allowing for easier maneuverability, especially in thick grass or on slopes. Many models also feature adjustable cutting heights, which is crucial for tackling longer grass without damaging it.

Reel Mowers: Reel mowers offer a clean, scissor-like cut, which is beneficial for the health of the grass. They are environmentally friendly and require no fuel or electricity, making them a sustainable option. However, they are best suited for well-maintained lawns and may struggle with very tall or dense grass.

Riding Mowers: These mowers are ideal for large properties, allowing the user to cover extensive areas quickly. They usually come equipped with powerful engines and larger cutting decks, making them effective for cutting long grass efficiently. Additionally, many riding mowers have features like mulching capabilities and bagging options for added convenience.

Brush Cutters: These are heavy-duty tools that excel in cutting through thick grass, weeds, and brush. They come with a rotating blade attached to a long shaft, making them versatile for different terrain types. Brush cutters are especially useful in overgrown areas where traditional mowers may struggle, providing a powerful solution for tough mowing tasks.

Electric Mowers: The advancements in electric mower technology have led to models capable of handling longer grass effectively. Offering a quieter and more environmentally friendly option, these mowers are perfect for residential lawns where noise might be a concern. Many electric mowers also feature adjustable cutting heights, allowing for customization based on grass length.

What Are the Benefits of Using Push Mowers for Long Grass?

In terms of cost-effectiveness, push mowers are usually less expensive to purchase and maintain than their powered counterparts. This makes them an attractive option for homeowners looking to save money while still achieving a well-maintained lawn.

Finally, the cleaner cut produced by many push mowers, particularly those with a reel mechanism, can lead to healthier grass. A cleaner cut minimizes the damage to grass blades, allowing for better recovery and growth, which can result in a lush and vibrant lawn.

How Do Riding Mowers Perform When Cutting Long Grass?

When cutting long grass, riding mowers can vary in performance based on several factors, including power, blade design, and deck size.

• Powerful Engine: A riding mower with a powerful engine is essential for efficiently cutting through long grass. Higher horsepower allows the mower to maintain speed and performance even when faced with dense, tall vegetation, preventing it from stalling or bogging down.
• Blade Design: The design and sharpness of the blades play a crucial role in cutting long grass effectively. Mowers equipped with high-lift blades or mulching blades can create better airflow and lift, which helps to chop the grass finely and discharge it evenly, reducing clumping and promoting a clean cut.
• Deck Size: The size of the mower deck affects how much grass is cut in one pass. A larger deck can cover more ground quickly, which is beneficial for tackling long grass; however, it can also be less maneuverable in tight spaces. A balance between deck size and agility is important for overall performance.
• Cutting Height Adjustment: The ability to adjust the cutting height is critical when dealing with long grass. A mower that allows for lower or higher adjustments can accommodate varying grass lengths, enabling the user to gradually lower the cut to avoid stressing the engine and blades.
• Transmission Type: The type of transmission can impact how well a riding mower handles long grass. Hydrostatic transmissions provide smoother speed control, allowing operators to navigate through thick patches without losing power, while manual transmissions may require more effort and adjustment to maintain performance.
• Mulching Capability: Riding mowers with mulching capabilities can be particularly effective for long grass. These mowers finely cut the grass and return it to the lawn as nutrient-rich mulch, which can help to naturally fertilize the soil while reducing waste disposal needs.

Can Robotic Mowers Handle Long Grass Effectively?

No, robotic mowers generally cannot handle long grass effectively. Robotic mowers are designed to maintain grass at a manageable height, typically around 2 to 4 inches. When the grass grows significantly taller than this range, it can lead to various issues, such as the mower becoming bogged down or stalling. Many models have limitations on the height of grass they can cut, and when faced with long grass, they may struggle to achieve a clean cut.

Furthermore, the cutting mechanisms of robotic mowers are optimized for regular maintenance rather than tackling overgrown lawns. If the grass is too long, it can overwhelm the blades, resulting in uneven cutting and potential damage to the mower itself. For effective lawn care, it’s usually recommended to use a traditional mower for very long grass before switching to a robotic mower for regular maintenance. This ensures that the lawn is at an appropriate height for the robotic mower to handle efficiently and effectively.

What Size Lawn Mower is Ideal for Cutting Long Grass?

When selecting the best lawn mower for cutting long grass, several factors should be considered to ensure efficient and effective mowing.

• Self-Propelled Mowers: These mowers are ideal for cutting long grass as they provide the extra power needed to handle the dense and tall blades without straining the operator.
• Gas-Powered Mowers: Gas-powered mowers generally offer stronger engines compared to electric models, making them more suitable for tackling long grass that requires more cutting force.
• Reel Mowers: While not as common for long grass, reel mowers can be effective in maintaining taller grass if the blades are sharp and the mower is appropriately sized for the task.
• High-Wheel Mowers: These mowers come with larger rear wheels that allow them to navigate through tall grass more easily, reducing the risk of bogging down or getting stuck.
• Mulching Mowers: Mulching mowers chop grass into fine pieces that can be returned to the lawn, making them excellent for long grass as they help reduce the volume of clippings left behind.

Self-propelled mowers are particularly advantageous for users who may struggle with pushing a standard mower through thick grass, as they do the work of moving forward for you. Furthermore, their varying speed settings allow for greater control depending on the grass height.

Gas-powered mowers typically have more robust motors, which can handle the increased resistance posed by long grass better than electric models. They are also more versatile in handling uneven terrain or areas with thick grass.

Reel mowers can be an option, especially for those who prefer a manual approach and have a smaller area to maintain. However, their effectiveness largely depends on the sharpness of their blades and the operator’s ability to navigate through taller grass without leaving patches uncut.

High-wheel mowers are beneficial due to their larger wheels which help them glide over uneven ground and through taller grass, making them a solid choice for homeowners with varied terrain.

Mulching mowers are advantageous in long grass cutting as they efficiently reduce clippings, allowing for a cleaner finish while simultaneously providing nutrients back to the lawn. This is particularly useful when grass is long and thick, as it minimizes the need for bagging clippings.

Why is Power and Blade Design Critical for Mowers Facing Long Grass?

Power and blade design are critical for mowers facing long grass because they directly impact the mower’s ability to effectively cut through dense and tall vegetation without stalling or damaging the equipment.

According to a study by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, the performance of lawn mowers is significantly influenced by the engine power and blade configuration, especially when tackling tougher conditions like long grass. Mowers designed with higher torque engines and specialized blades can maintain cutting efficiency even when faced with thicker grass, reducing the risk of clogging and ensuring a cleaner cut.

The underlying mechanism involves the interaction between the mower’s engine power and its blade design. A powerful engine generates the necessary speed and torque to drive the blades through denser grass, while blade design, including features like width, sharpness, and shape, contributes to the efficiency of the cut. For instance, wider and sharper blades can slice through grass more effectively, while mulching blades can finely chop the clippings, reducing the chances of grass buildup that can hinder performance. When mowers lack sufficient power or have poorly designed blades, they can struggle, leading to uneven cuts and increased wear on the equipment.

How Can Proper Maintenance Enhance Mower Performance on Long Grass?

Proper maintenance is essential for optimizing mower performance, especially when tackling long grass.

• Regular Blade Sharpening: Keeping mower blades sharp is crucial for clean cuts, which is particularly important when dealing with long grass. Dull blades can tear the grass instead of cutting it, leading to uneven growth and increased susceptibility to disease.
• Engine Maintenance: Regularly checking and maintaining the engine ensures that the mower operates efficiently. This includes changing the oil, replacing air filters, and ensuring the spark plugs are in good condition, which collectively enhance performance and fuel efficiency.
• Correct Tire Pressure: Maintaining the correct tire pressure helps ensure that the mower has optimal traction and stability while cutting long grass. Properly inflated tires prevent the mower from getting bogged down and allow for better maneuverability across uneven terrain.
• Deck Cleaning: Keeping the mower deck clean prevents grass buildup, which can hinder performance and lead to uneven cutting. A clean deck ensures that the mower operates at its best, allowing for smoother cutting and reducing the risk of clumping when mowing long grass.
• Height Adjustment: Adjusting the mower height appropriately for long grass is crucial to avoid straining the mower’s engine. Setting the cutting height too low can overload the engine and lead to poor performance, so it’s important to find the right height that allows for effective cutting without overworking the machine.

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