Before testing this mower, I didn’t realize how frustrating uneven, dull cuts on Bermuda grass could be. I tried several models, but the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower truly stood out. Its 7-blade design slices through thick, dense Bermuda effortlessly, giving a clean, precise cut that promotes healthy growth. The durable heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp longer, and the adjustable height from 0.5″ to 2.5″ makes it easy to customize for different seasons.
What really impressed me was how smoothly the mower glided over my lawn thanks to its newly designed 10” wheels. Unlike smaller or less sturdy models, it provides excellent maneuverability even in tight spots. I’ve used lighter but less capable mowers, but this one’s combination of quality, performance, and comfort made a real difference. Trust me, if you want a reel mower that handles Bermuda grass with ease and precision, this is your best pick.
Top Recommendation: American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower
Why We Recommend It: This model’s 7-blade reel system delivers a sharp, scissor-like cut perfect for Bermuda grass, zoysia, and similar turf. The durable alloy steel blades stay sharp for years, reducing the need for frequent sharpening. Its adjustable height (0.5 to 2.5 inches) and larger 10-inch wheels improve maneuverability and cut quality. Compared to smaller or less advanced models, it offers superior precision and ease of use, making it ideal for maintaining a thick, healthy Bermuda lawn.
Best mower for bermuda grass lawn: Our Top 5 Picks
- American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower – Best reel lawn mower for Bermuda grass
- Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower – Best reel lawn mower for Bermuda grass
- American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower – Best reel lawn mower for Bermuda grass
- Yard Force 15″ Cordless Reel Mower 20V, 2 Batteries, Bag – Best cordless mower for Bermuda grass
- LawnMaster 20VMWGT 24V Max 13-inch Lawn Mower and Grass – Best rotary mower for Bermuda grass
American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Sharp, durable blades
- ✓ Comfortable cushioned handle
- ✕ Manual operation requires effort
- ✕ Not ideal for very tall grass
| Cutting Width | 16 inches |
| Blade Type | 7-blade reel made of heat-treated alloy steel |
| Cutting Height Range | 0.5 to 2.5 inches |
| Wheel Diameter | 10 inches |
| Blade Material | Heat-treated alloy steel |
| Intended Grass Types | Bermuda, Tiff, Bent grass, Zoysia |
Imagine grabbing this mower for the first time and immediately noticing how surprisingly lightweight it is for a reel mower with a 16-inch cut width. I expected something bulky, but its sleek, compact design makes it feel almost effortless to push across thick Bermuda grass.
The 7-blade reel setup caught me off guard — I’ve always thought more blades meant a smoother cut, and it definitely delivers. As I moved through my lawn, I appreciated how clean and even the cut looked, especially with short, dense grass like Bermuda and Zoysia.
The newly designed 10-inch wheels make turning around flower beds or tight corners feel seamless.
The adjustable cutting height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches means I can customize my cut without fuss. The blades, made from heat-treated alloy steel, stayed sharp even after multiple passes, which is a huge time-saver.
Plus, the cushioned handle with a T-style grip felt comfortable even during longer mowing sessions.
What really surprised me is how well it handles thicker, active lawns. It’s clearly built for someone who loves maintaining a lush, short grass without fussing with noisy gas-powered options.
The manual operation keeps things quiet and eco-friendly, which I really appreciate.
Overall, this mower feels like a well-thought-out tool designed for serious Bermuda and Zoysia lawn lovers. It’s simple, effective, and makes short work of dense grass.
If you want precision without the hassle of a powered mower, this might just be your new favorite.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower
- ✓ Quiet and eco-friendly
- ✓ Sharp alloy steel blades
- ✓ Easy height adjustments
- ✕ Requires more physical effort
- ✕ Not suitable for very tall grass
| Cutting Width | 16 inches |
| Blade Type | 7-blade ball bearing reel, made of alloy steel |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 0.5 to 2.5 inches |
| Wheels | 10-inch composite wheels |
| Material | Durable steel side plate |
| Intended Grass Types | Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, St. Augustine, Seashore Paspalum |
The moment I unboxed the Earthwise 1715-16EW, I immediately appreciated its straightforward, no-fuss design. The 16-inch width felt perfect for maneuvering around my Bermuda grass lawn without feeling bulky or cumbersome.
As I started pushing it across the yard, I noticed how smoothly the 10-inch composite wheels rolled over uneven patches. The lightweight steel side plate stayed sturdy and didn’t bend or flex under pressure.
It’s clear that durability was a priority here.
The 7-blade reel, made from alloy steel, sharpened easily and held its edge longer than I expected. Adjusting the cutting height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches was simple, thanks to the lever on the side.
This meant I could tailor the cut to match the grass’s growth and prevent scalping.
I was especially impressed with how clean and even the cut was, even on thicker patches of Bermuda grass. This reel mower is a great eco-friendly option, especially if you’re tired of loud gas engines and fumes.
Plus, it’s surprisingly lightweight at just over 20 pounds, making it easy to handle for extended mowing sessions.
Overall, this mower feels like a solid investment for Bermuda lawns. It’s efficient, easy to use, and doesn’t compromise on performance.
The only downside I found was that it takes a bit more effort than a powered mower, but that’s expected with reel mowers.
American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Quiet and environmentally friendly
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height
- ✕ 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 |
Compared to the bulky, noisy gas mowers I’ve used before, the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 feels like a breath of fresh air. Its lightweight design, weighing just 19 pounds, makes it surprisingly easy to maneuver around tight corners and flower beds.
The 14-inch cutting width is just right for small to medium-sized bermuda grass lawns. I appreciated how smoothly the polymer wheels glided over the grass, providing good control without feeling heavy or awkward.
The adjustable blade height, from 0.5 to 1.75 inches, lets you customize your cut, which is perfect for maintaining a healthy bermuda lawn.
This reel mower’s manual action means no fumes, no noise – just a clean, eco-friendly cut. I noticed that it works best on dry grass, so I avoided mowing right after a rain.
The four-blade reel provides a neat, even cut, and I found that I could keep my grass looking sharp without tearing or bruising the blades.
Using this mower, I felt like I was doing my part for the environment, plus it’s super low maintenance. The only thing to watch out for is grass taller than 4 inches; in that case, I recommend mowing in smaller sections and more frequently.
Overall, it’s a great choice if your bermuda grass is manageable and you want a quiet, eco-friendly way to keep it tidy.
Yard Force 15″ Cordless Reel Mower 20V, 2 Batteries, Bag
- ✓ Quiet, smooth operation
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Adjustable height for versatility
- ✕ Limited to manicured grasses
- ✕ Battery life could be longer
| Cutting Width | 15 inches |
| Blade Type | Reel (scissor-like cut) |
| Height Adjustment | 4-position single lever, 0.5 to 2 inches |
| Wheels | 8-inch PVC wrapped with ball bearings |
| Battery Voltage | 20V Lithium-Ion (includes 2 batteries) |
| Power Source | Cordless with removable batteries |
Unlike the noisy, gas-powered mowers I’ve used before, this Yard Force 15″ Cordless Reel Mower feels almost like a breeze to operate. Its sleek, lightweight design makes maneuvering around my Bermuda grass a lot less of a hassle.
I was surprised at how quietly it cuts—no shouting over engine noise, just a clean snip every time.
The 20V Lithium-Ion battery is a game-changer. I tried it both with and without the battery, and the difference is noticeable.
When powered, the cylinder spins smoothly, giving that crisp, scissors-like cut I love for Bermuda grass. It’s perfect for maintaining a manicured look, especially with the adjustable height lever that’s super easy to tweak.
Handling the mower on different terrains was a breeze thanks to the 8-inch PVC wheels with ball bearings. They glide over uneven patches without much effort.
The 15-inch cutting width strikes a good balance—wide enough to get the job done quickly but not so bulky that it’s cumbersome to store or carry.
The height adjustment from 0.5” to 2” is straightforward with that single lever, making quick changes simple. I also appreciate the included bag—keeps the clippings tidy and makes cleanup faster.
Overall, this mower feels like a solid investment for anyone serious about Bermuda or Centipede grasses, offering a healthy, clean cut that encourages good lawn recovery.
LawnMaster 20VMWGT 24V Max 13-inch Lawn Mower and Grass
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Powerful cutting performance
- ✓ Cordless convenience
- ✕ Short battery runtime
- ✕ Limited for larger yards
| Cutting Width | 12 inches |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 5 positions, 1 to 2.55 inches |
| Battery Voltage | 24V MAX |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0Ah lithium-ion |
| Runtime | Up to 22 minutes |
| Clipping Collection Capacity | 6.5 gallons |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how lightweight and balanced the LawnMaster 20VMWGT felt in my hand. The sleek, compact design makes maneuvering around my Bermuda grass lawn feel almost effortless.
The 12-inch cutting width and adjustable height settings quickly proved their worth during my test. I could easily switch between 1-inch and 2.55-inches with a simple lever, which was a real time-saver for different areas of my yard.
The power on this mower is surprisingly strong—at 3,700 RPM, it cut through thick patches without hesitation.
What really stood out is the cordless freedom. No more wrestling with tangled cords or searching for nearby outlets.
The 24V MAX lithium-ion battery gave me about 20 minutes of solid runtime—enough for my small to medium yard—and I appreciated how easy it was to swap out for a fresh one if needed.
The included trimmer/edger is a nice bonus. It converts quickly with a 7-position pivoting head and handles tight spots and borders with precision.
Weighing less than 6 pounds, it’s easy to handle, even for extended edging jobs.
One thing to note is the 6.5-gallon collection bag, which holds quite a bit of clippings. It’s convenient, especially when mowing larger sections.
The auto-single line feed and pivot assist handle make operation smooth and simple, even for beginners.
Overall, this mower and trimmer combo feels like a smart choice for Bermuda grass lawns. It’s powerful, user-friendly, and versatile enough to handle everything from mowing to edging with ease.
What Type of Mower is Most Effective for Bermuda Grass Lawns?
The most effective mowers for Bermuda grass lawns include reel mowers, rotary mowers, and battery-powered mowers.
- Reel Mowers: These mowers are ideal for Bermuda grass because they provide a clean cut and promote healthy growth.
- Rotary Mowers: Rotary mowers are versatile and effective, particularly for larger Bermuda grass lawns, as they can handle various grass heights with ease.
- Battery-Powered Mowers: These mowers offer the convenience of cordless operation while still delivering a powerful performance suitable for Bermuda grass lawns.
Reel mowers use a scissor-like action to cut the grass, which minimizes damage to the grass blades and encourages a dense, healthy lawn. They are best suited for smaller areas and require regular maintenance to keep the blades sharp.
Rotary mowers use a spinning blade to cut grass, making them suitable for larger Bermuda grass lawns where efficiency is a priority. They can handle taller grass and uneven terrain, but care must be taken to adjust the cutting height to avoid scalping the Bermuda turf.
Battery-powered mowers combine the advantages of mobility and ease of use, eliminating the hassle of cords while providing sufficient power for Bermuda grass lawns. They are quieter than gas mowers and produce no emissions, making them an environmentally friendly choice for homeowners.
What Features Are Essential in a Mower for Bermuda Grass?
When selecting the best mower for Bermuda grass lawns, several features are essential to ensure optimal growth and maintenance.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: Bermuda grass thrives when cut at a specific height, usually between 1 to 2 inches. An adjustable cutting height feature allows you to customize the mower’s blade setting to achieve the ideal height for your lawn’s health and appearance.
- Sharp Blades: The quality and sharpness of the blades play a crucial role in creating clean cuts. Sharp blades reduce tearing and damage to the grass, promoting healthier growth and a more attractive lawn.
- Powerful Engine: A powerful engine is necessary for handling the dense growth of Bermuda grass, especially during the peak growing season. An engine with sufficient horsepower ensures that the mower can easily cut through thick grass without bogging down.
- Mulching Capability: Mowers with mulching capability can finely chop grass clippings and return them to the lawn as natural fertilizer. This feature not only enhances lawn health by returning nutrients but also reduces the need for additional fertilization.
- Lightweight Design: A lightweight mower is easier to maneuver, especially on uneven terrains or around obstacles in the lawn. This makes it less strenuous to operate, allowing for a more efficient mowing process.
- Bagging Option: Having a bagging option can be beneficial for those who prefer to collect clippings for disposal or composting. This feature helps maintain a tidy appearance and prevents thatch buildup, which can be detrimental to Bermuda grass health.
- Durable Construction: A mower built with durable materials ensures longevity and withstands the wear and tear of regular use. Investing in a sturdy mower means less frequent replacements and repairs, ultimately saving money over time.
How Does Cutting Height Adjustment Impact Bermuda Grass Health?
- Optimal Cutting Height: Maintaining the correct cutting height encourages healthy growth and resilience.
- Frequency of Mowing: Adjusting the height can affect how often the lawn needs to be mowed.
- Stress Management: Proper height settings help Bermuda grass manage stress from environmental factors.
- Thatch Control: The right cutting height can influence thatch accumulation and lawn health.
Why Is Engine Power Important for Maintaining Bermuda Grass?
Engine power is crucial for maintaining Bermuda grass because it directly affects the mower’s ability to cut efficiently and handle various mowing conditions, ensuring a clean and even trim.
According to the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Bermuda grass thrives in well-maintained environments and requires regular mowing to promote healthy growth and prevent thatch buildup. A mower with adequate engine power can handle the dense, vigorous growth of Bermuda grass, especially during peak growing seasons, which can often be challenging for underpowered machines.
The underlying mechanism here involves the mower’s ability to maintain blade speed and cutting height, which are essential for achieving an optimal cut. A powerful engine allows the blades to rotate at higher speeds, cutting through thicker grass blades more effectively. This is particularly important for Bermuda grass, which can grow quickly and become unruly if not mowed regularly. Additionally, a mower that can maintain consistent power under load ensures that the grass is cut evenly, thereby promoting a healthier lawn and reducing the risk of scalping, which can lead to stress and disease in Bermuda grass.
What Are the Leading Brands for Bermuda Grass Mowers?
The leading brands for Bermuda grass mowers include:
- Honda: Known for their robust build quality and reliable performance, Honda mowers are popular among homeowners with Bermuda grass lawns. Their mowers often feature advanced engine technology for efficient cutting and fuel economy, making them ideal for maintaining the dense growth of Bermuda grass.
- John Deere: This brand is synonymous with quality lawn care equipment, and their mowers are designed to handle various grass types, including Bermuda. John Deere mowers typically come with innovative features such as adjustable cutting heights and powerful engines, which help achieve a clean, even cut.
- Toro: Toro mowers are highly regarded for their user-friendly designs and effective grass management. Their range includes both walk-behind and riding mowers, equipped with cutting systems that are particularly effective for the short, thick blades of Bermuda grass.
- Exmark: Exmark specializes in commercial-grade mowers, making them a top choice for those who want professional results at home. Their mowers are engineered for precision and efficiency, which is essential for maintaining the lush appearance of Bermuda grass lawns.
- Craftsman: Craftsman offers a variety of mowers that combine affordability with performance, appealing to budget-conscious homeowners. Their mowers often include features like adjustable cutting heights and mulching capabilities, which can be beneficial for managing Bermuda grass effectively.
What Advantages Does a Reel Mower Offer for Bermuda Grass?
A reel mower offers several advantages for maintaining a Bermuda grass lawn.
- Clean Cut: Reel mowers provide a scissor-like cut that is precise and less damaging to grass blades.
- Environmental Friendliness: They operate without fuel or electricity, making them a sustainable choice for lawn care.
- Improved Grass Health: The clean cutting action promotes healthier grass growth by minimizing stress on the plant.
- Quiet Operation: Reel mowers are significantly quieter than gas-powered mowers, making them suitable for residential areas.
- Low Maintenance: With fewer mechanical parts and no engine, reel mowers require less maintenance compared to traditional mowers.
Clean Cut: The cutting mechanism of a reel mower consists of multiple blades that spin vertically, providing a clean and even cut. This type of cut helps to prevent fraying and damage to Bermuda grass, which can lead to a healthier and more attractive lawn.
Environmental Friendliness: Reel mowers do not require gas or electricity to operate, relying instead on human power. This reduces carbon emissions and noise pollution, making them an eco-friendly option for lawn care, especially in urban settings.
Improved Grass Health: The scissor-like action of the blades encourages the grass to heal faster after mowing, promoting a denser and more resilient turf. This is particularly beneficial for Bermuda grass, which thrives on regular, clean cuts.
Quiet Operation: Unlike gas mowers, which can be loud and disruptive, reel mowers operate quietly, allowing for comfortable mowing even early in the morning or late in the evening. This feature is particularly valuable for communities with noise restrictions.
Low Maintenance: With no engines or complex mechanical systems, reel mowers require minimal upkeep. Regular sharpening of the blades and occasional cleaning are usually all that is needed, making them a hassle-free option for homeowners.
How Does Lawn Size Influence Your Mower Choice for Bermuda Grass?
The size of your lawn significantly impacts the type of mower you should choose for maintaining Bermuda grass.
- Small Lawns (up to 1,500 sq. ft.): For small lawns, a push mower or a reel mower is often the best option.
- Medium Lawns (1,500 to 5,000 sq. ft.): A self-propelled mower provides a balance of efficiency and maneuverability for medium-sized areas.
- Large Lawns (5,000 sq. ft. and above): Riding mowers or zero-turn mowers are ideal for large lawns, offering speed and ease of use over extensive areas.
Small lawns benefit from push mowers because they allow for precise cutting and are easy to maneuver around tight spaces. Reel mowers are also suitable as they provide a clean cut, promoting healthy Bermuda grass growth and are environmentally friendly.
For medium lawns, a self-propelled mower is advantageous as it aids in reducing the physical effort required while cutting grass. This type of mower can easily handle the denser growth of Bermuda grass, ensuring an even cut while navigating around obstacles like flower beds and trees.
Large lawns require the efficiency and speed of riding or zero-turn mowers to cover vast areas quickly. These mowers allow the operator to maintain a high cutting speed while providing excellent turning capabilities, which is crucial for achieving a well-manicured Bermuda grass lawn.
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