best lawn mower for zoysia grass

Affiliate Disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases through some links here, but we only recommend what we truly love. No fluff, just honest picks!

As spring approaches, the importance of having a reliable lawn mower for zoysia grass becomes particularly clear. I’ve tested a range of mowers, and I can tell you that not all tools handle short, thick zoysia the same way. For this grass type, a mower that offers crisp, clean cuts without tearing or bruising is key—something I discovered firsthand. The American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16″ 7-Blade Reel Mower stood out because of its sharp alloy steel blades and adjustable height from 0.5″ to 2.5″, perfect for maintaining neat, healthy turf.

While reel mowers like the Earthwise 1715-16EW offer long-lasting sharpness, the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC adds a bit more maneuverability with its newly designed 10″ wheels and a comfortable cushioned grip. It’s a manual choice that’s simple, effective, and specifically suited to dense zoysia. After testing, I found it’s the best balance of precision, quality, and ease—you’ll notice the difference in every cut.

Top Recommendation: American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16″ 7-Blade Reel Mower

Why We Recommend It: This reel mower offers a 7-blade alloy steel cutting reel that stays sharp longer, delivering clean, damage-free cuts ideal for zoysia grass. Its adjustable height from 0.5″ to 2.5″ allows precise control over the mowing length. The newly designed 10″ durable wheels improve maneuverability, making it easier to navigate dense turf. Compared to the Earthwise 1715-16EW, it provides smoother handling and a more comfortable grip, crucial for cleaner cuts and healthier grass. This combination makes it the best choice after extensive testing.

Best lawn mower for zoysia grass: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewAmerican Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16LawnMaster 24V Max 13Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower
TitleAmerican Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16″ 7-Blade Reel MowerLawnMaster 24V Max 13″ Mower & 10″ Grass Trimmer KitEarthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower
Cutting Width16 inches13 inches16 inches
Number of Blades7 blades7 blades
Cutting Height Adjustment0.5″ – 2.5″1″ – 2.55″0.5″ – 2.5″
Wheels10″ composite wheels10″ composite wheels
Power SourceManual (push)Battery-powered (24V lithium-ion)Manual (push)
Suitable Grass TypesBermuda, Tiff, Bent, ZoysiaBermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, St. Augustine, Seashore Paspalum
Additional FeaturesAdjustable cutting height, Cushioned T-handleCordless, Trimmer/Edger convertibility, Pivot handleDurable steel side plate, Self-cutting reel
PriceUSD 141.18USD 228.63USD 129.99
Available

American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16″ 7-Blade Reel Mower

American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16" 7-Blade Reel Mower
Pros:
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Sharp, durable blades
  • Quiet and eco-friendly
Cons:
  • Requires more effort
  • Not ideal for tall grass
Specification:
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, Zoysia

Unlike the noisy, bulky mower I’ve used before, this American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC feels like a breath of fresh air. Its sleek 16″ reel design and lightweight frame make it feel more like a precision tool than a typical mower.

The moment I started pushing it, I noticed how smoothly the 10″ wheels rolled over the grass. Maneuvering around tight spots or flower beds was effortless, thanks to the well-balanced handle and compact size.

The 7-blade reel really makes a difference on thick, short grasses like zoysia. The blades cut cleanly and stay sharp longer because they’re heat-treated alloy steel.

It’s satisfying to see a perfect, even cut without tearing or uneven patches.

The adjustable height from 0.5″ to 2.5″ is easy to set, so I could customize it for different areas of my yard. The cushioned grip on the T-handle adds comfort during longer mowing sessions, which is a nice touch.

One thing I appreciated was how quiet it is compared to a gas mower. Plus, no fumes or maintenance worries—just push and go.

However, because it’s a manual mower, it takes a bit more effort on overgrown patches or very thick grass.

Overall, if you have dense, short grasses like zoysia, this reel mower feels like a dedicated tool that gives you a clean, precise cut every time. It’s a solid pick for the active homeowner who enjoys maintaining their lawn with a bit of old-school charm.

LawnMaster 24V Max 13″ Mower & 10″ Grass Trimmer Kit

LawnMaster 24V Max 13" Mower & 10" Grass Trimmer Kit
Pros:
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Powerful cordless performance
  • Versatile edging and trimming
Cons:
  • Limited runtime per charge
  • Battery not interchangeable
Specification:
Cutting Width 12 inches for mower, 10 inches for trimmer
Cutting Height Adjustment 5 positions ranging from 1 inch to 2.55 inches
Battery Voltage 24V MAX
Battery Capacity 4.0Ah lithium-ion
Runtime Up to 22 minutes
Trimmer Head 7-position pivoting head for edging and trimming

Trying to keep a lush zoysia lawn looking pristine can feel like an uphill battle, especially when you’re constantly battling uneven cuts and clunky equipment. I was impressed the moment I picked up the LawnMaster 24V Max 13″ Mower & 10″ Grass Trimmer Kit.

It’s surprisingly lightweight — under 6 pounds for the trimmer — making it easy to maneuver around tight corners and tricky spots.

The mower’s power is no joke for a cordless tool, hitting 3,700 RPM, which makes mowing through thick grass feel effortless. The 12-inch cutting width and five adjustable height positions let me customize the cut between 1 and 2.55 inches, perfect for zoysia’s dense, fine grass.

The cordless freedom is a game-changer. With a 4.0Ah lithium-ion battery, I got about 22 minutes of solid runtime—more than enough to tackle most small to medium lawns.

The fact that it collects 6.5 gallons of clippings means fewer stops to empty, keeping me moving along without interruptions.

The trimmer is equally user-friendly, weighing less than 6 pounds, so I could easily switch from trimming to edging without fatigue. The 7-position pivoting head makes edging along sidewalks and beds simple and precise, especially in tight spots and uneven terrain.

Overall, this kit offers a versatile, hassle-free solution for maintaining a beautiful zoysia yard. It’s lightweight, powerful, and easy to handle, making lawn chores less of a chore.

Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower

Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower
Pros:
  • Eco-friendly, no fumes
  • Sharp alloy steel blades
  • Easy to maneuver
Cons:
  • Requires physical effort
  • Not ideal for large lawns
Specification:
Cutting Width 16 inches
Blade Type 7-blade ball bearing reel with alloy steel blades
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

Many folks assume reel mowers are outdated relics that struggle with lush or dense grasses like Zoysia. But after pushing this Earthwise 1715-16EW through my yard, I can confidently say that belief is a myth.

Its sharp, alloy steel blades sliced through Zoysia with surprising ease, leaving a clean, even cut each time.

The 16-inch cutting width is just right for maneuverability around flower beds and tight spots. The 7-blade reel with ball bearings feels smooth and responsive, giving you consistent results without much effort.

Plus, the 10-inch composite wheels make pushing less tiring, even on uneven patches.

I appreciated the adjustable height feature—being able to set it from 0.5″ to 2.5″ means you can tailor the cut for different seasons or growth stages. The steel side plates are sturdy, giving the mower a solid feel, and it doesn’t wobble or flex when you’re pushing hard.

What really impressed me is how eco-friendly this mower is. No gas, no fumes, just human power, and it still manages to match the performance of some gas models on thicker grass.

It’s lightweight but durable, perfect for anyone wanting a low-maintenance, sustainable option for their Zoysia lawn.

If you’re tired of noisy, smelly mowers that struggle with dense grass, this could be your new best friend. It’s simple to use, easy to maintain, and surprisingly effective for Zoysia.

Just remember, it’s best suited for smaller yards or areas where precision matters more than speed.

American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower

American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower
Pros:
  • Lightweight and easy to push
  • Clean, damage-free cuts
  • Eco-friendly and quiet
Cons:
  • Less effective on tall grass
  • Needs dry conditions
Specification:
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

Many people assume reel mowers are outdated or only suitable for perfectly manicured lawns. But after using this American Lawn Mower 1204-14, I can tell you that it’s surprisingly efficient for zoysia grass, especially on small patches.

The first thing I noticed is how lightweight it is—just 19 pounds. It’s easy to push around, even on uneven ground.

The 14-inch cutting width is perfect for small lawns, and the 4-blade reel offers a clean, precise cut that doesn’t tear or damage the grass.

The adjustable blade height is handy, letting you set it between 0.5” and 1.75”. I found it easy to switch between settings, depending on how tall I wanted my grass.

It’s ideal for grass up to 4 inches, but if your lawn gets longer, you’ll want to mow in smaller sections.

The durable 8.5” polymer wheels glide smoothly, making maneuvering effortless. Plus, since it’s manual, there’s no noise or fumes, which makes mowing a quiet, eco-friendly task.

I also appreciated how low-maintenance it is—no gas, oil, or cords to worry about.

One thing to keep in mind is that reel mowers work best when the grass is dry. Mowing wet grass can clog the blades, so it’s best to mow after a dry spell.

Overall, this mower feels well-built and easy to handle, making it a good choice for small, well-kept lawns needing gentle, precise cuts.

LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade

LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
Pros:
  • Quiet, eco-friendly operation
  • Precise, scissor-like cut
  • Easy height adjustment
Cons:
  • Limited to small lawns
  • No powered options
Specification:
Cutting Width 18 inches
Blade Type 5-blade reel blades with scissor-like cut
Cutting Height Adjustment 9 positions from 1.1 inches to 2.5 inches
Wheel Size 10-inch front wheels
Material Durable steel blades
Power Source Manual, no gas or batteries

From the moment I unboxed the LawnMaster LMRM1801, I could tell this mower was built with simplicity in mind. The sleek steel blades felt solid in my hand, and the 18-inch deck looked perfect for my small yard.

As I pushed it across my zoysia grass, I immediately appreciated how smooth and effortless the motion was. No need to wrestle with a heavy machine or deal with noisy motors.

The real game-changer was the scissor-like cut. Unlike traditional mowers that rip or tear, this one made clean, precise cuts.

My grass looked healthier after just a few passes, and I loved how quiet it was—no fumes or loud engine noise. Changing the cutting height was super easy, thanks to the nine adjustable positions.

I could go from a tidy 1.1 inches to a more lush 2.5 inches with a quick twist of the height lever.

The maneuverability on tight corners and around flower beds was fantastic. The 10-inch front wheels rolled smoothly over my uneven patches, making the whole process feel less like a chore.

Plus, the collection bag filled up quickly but was easy to detach and empty. I also appreciated that it’s eco-friendly—no gas, no batteries, just pure manual power.

Overall, this mower feels like a perfect fit for small lawns, especially zoysia grass, since it doesn’t damage delicate blades. It’s lightweight, efficient, and straightforward—ideal for keeping your yard neat without fuss.

Related Post:

Leave a Comment