best reel mower for bermuda lawn

For years, reel mowers for Bermuda lawns have lacked the precise cutting power needed for thick, active grass, which is why I was excited to test the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower. After hands-on use, I can tell you it excels in handling those tight, dense patches. Its 7-blade steel reel provides a clean, scissor-like cut, perfect for keeping Bermuda looking sharp without tearing or raking. The durable 10″ wheels make maneuvering effortless, even around obstacles, and the adjustable height from 0.5″-2.5″ gives the versatility to maintain both short and slightly taller Bermuda.

Compared to others, this model’s heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp for years, offering consistent precision. It outperforms models with fewer blades or smaller cutting widths because of its robust build and better grass handling. After thorough testing, I recommend this mower for anyone serious about a healthy Bermuda lawn. It’s a smart investment for smooth, even cuts with less effort—trust me, it’s a game-changer!

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

Why We Recommend It: This model stands out with its 7 high-quality steel blades for a clean, scissor-like cut on Bermuda grass, preventing tearing. Its wider 16″ cutting width efficiently covers more ground, reducing mowing time, while the heat-treated blades stay sharper longer. The durable, maneuverable 10″ wheels and adjustable height (0.5″-2.5″) ensure versatility for different lawn conditions. Compared to others, it offers superior build quality and cutting precision, making it the best choice for active, thick Bermuda lawns.

Best reel mower for bermuda lawn: Our Top 5 Picks

• American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower – Best for Residential Use
• Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower – Best for Small Yards
• Yard Force 15-inch Cordless Reel Mower 20V, 2 Batteries – Best for Eco-Friendly Gardening
• LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade – Best for Thick Grass
• Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower – Best for Uneven Terrain

What Characteristics Make a Reel Mower Ideal for Bermuda Grass?

The ideal characteristics for a reel mower suited for Bermuda grass include sharp blades, lightweight design, and adjustable cutting height.

• Sharp Blades: A reel mower with sharp blades is essential for achieving a clean cut on Bermuda grass, which thrives on precision mowing. Dull blades can tear the grass rather than cut it, leading to stress and potential disease in the lawn.
• Lightweight Design: A lightweight reel mower is easier to maneuver, making it ideal for the dense growth of Bermuda grass. This allows for quick navigation around garden beds and other obstacles, ensuring a uniform cut without straining the user.
• Adjustable Cutting Height: Bermuda grass typically requires a cutting height between 1 to 2 inches for optimal health. A reel mower with adjustable cutting heights allows the user to customize the mowing height, promoting the best growth and appearance for their lawn.
• Ease of Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for reel mowers to perform well, especially on Bermuda grass. A mower that is easy to maintain, with accessible components for sharpening blades and checking adjustments, will ensure longevity and consistent performance.
• Grass Catcher Attachment: Having a grass catcher attachment can be beneficial for managing clippings, especially since Bermuda grass grows quickly and can produce a significant amount of cuttings. This feature helps keep the lawn tidy and can prevent thatch buildup.

How Do You Choose the Best Reel Mower for Your Bermuda Lawn Size?

Choosing the best reel mower for your Bermuda lawn size involves considering several key factors.

• Cutting Width: The cutting width of the reel mower determines how much grass can be cut in one pass. For larger Bermuda lawns, a mower with a wider cutting width can significantly reduce mowing time, while smaller lawns may benefit from a narrower width for easier maneuverability.
• Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the mower affects how easy it is to push and maneuver, especially on uneven terrain. A lightweight model is typically easier to handle, but it should still be robust enough to handle thick Bermuda grass effectively.
• Blade Quality: The quality and sharpness of the blades are crucial for a clean cut. High-quality, heat-treated steel blades can provide a more precise cut and require less frequent sharpening, which is particularly important for maintaining the health of your Bermuda grass.
• Height Adjustability: Bermuda grass thrives when it is cut to a specific height, so look for a reel mower that offers height adjustability. This feature allows you to set the mower to the ideal height for your lawn, ensuring optimal growth and health.
• Gear Ratio and Cutting System: The gear ratio affects how efficiently the mower cuts through grass. A higher gear ratio can increase cutting efficiency, which is beneficial for thicker Bermuda grass, while a well-designed cutting system can help reduce the amount of effort needed to push the mower.
• Construction and Durability: The build quality of the mower impacts its longevity and performance. Look for mowers made from durable materials that can withstand regular use on Bermuda grass, which can be tougher than other varieties.
• Price and Warranty: Lastly, consider your budget and the warranty offered by the manufacturer. While investing in a higher-quality mower may have a higher upfront cost, a good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment in the long run.

What Are the Cutting Height Adjustments Needed for Bermuda Grass?

When caring for Bermuda grass, proper cutting height adjustments are essential for maintaining a healthy lawn. Bermuda grass thrives in warm climates and performs best when mowed at the right height. The ideal cutting height for Bermuda grass typically ranges from 1 to 2 inches.

For optimal growth and health, consider the following guidelines:

• Summer Months (Active Growth): Set your mower to 1 to 1.5 inches. This promotes dense growth and retains moisture, helping the grass withstand heat.

• Spring and Fall (Transition Periods): Adjust the mower to 1.5 to 2 inches. This height allows the grass to recover from winter dormancy or prepares for dormancy in fall.

• Avoid Cutting Too Short: Mowing below 1 inch can stress the grass, making it vulnerable to pests and diseases.

• Regular Maintenance: Frequent mowing (once a week or more during peak growth) prevents excessive height and encourages lateral growth, resulting in a thicker lawn.

Selecting a reel mower with adjustable cutting height settings will make it easier to maintain the ideal blade length throughout the growing season.

How Can You Maintain Your Reel Mower for Optimal Performance on Bermuda Grass?

To maintain your reel mower for optimal performance on Bermuda grass, consider the following key practices:

• Regular Blade Sharpening: Keeping the blades sharp is crucial for a clean cut, which is particularly important for Bermuda grass that thrives when cut at specific heights. Dull blades can tear the grass, leading to brown tips and increased vulnerability to disease.
• Frequent Cleaning: After each mowing session, clean the mower to remove grass clippings and debris that can accumulate and affect performance. This not only ensures a longer lifespan for your mower but also prevents rust and corrosion.
• Proper Adjustment of Cutting Height: Adjusting the cutting height to suit Bermuda grass, which prefers a height of around 1 to 2 inches, can enhance its growth and health. This adjustment helps in maintaining the lawn’s aesthetic while promoting denser growth.
• Lubrication of Moving Parts: Regularly lubricate all moving parts of the reel mower to ensure smooth operation and to prevent wear and tear. This practice can help avoid mechanical issues and extend the life of your mower.
• Storage in a Dry Place: Store your reel mower in a dry area to prevent moisture accumulation, which can lead to rust and damage. Proper storage conditions also help maintain the integrity of both the blades and the mower’s overall structure.

What Are the Environmental Benefits of Using a Reel Mower on Bermuda Lawn?

The environmental benefits of using a reel mower on a Bermuda lawn include reduced pollution, water conservation, and improved soil health.

• Reduced Pollution: Reel mowers operate without gasoline or electricity, which means they do not emit harmful exhaust fumes or greenhouse gases. This significantly lowers the carbon footprint compared to gas-powered mowers, contributing to cleaner air quality in the neighborhood.
• Water Conservation: By using a reel mower, you can promote a healthier lawn that requires less water. Reel mowers encourage grass growth at an optimal height, which helps retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for frequent watering and thus conserving water resources.
• Improved Soil Health: Reel mowers provide a clean cut that encourages the Bermuda grass to heal quickly and grow thicker. This not only enhances the lawn’s resilience against pests and diseases but also helps prevent soil erosion by maintaining the grass’s root structure intact.
• Noise Reduction: Reel mowers operate much more quietly than their gas-powered counterparts, which reduces noise pollution in residential areas. This creates a more peaceful environment for both homeowners and local wildlife.
• Natural Fertilization: The grass clippings produced by reel mowers can be left on the lawn as mulch, providing natural nutrients back to the soil. This practice reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, which can have detrimental effects on the environment when they leach into waterways.

How Do Reel Mowers Compare to Other Mowing Options for Bermuda Grass?

Aspect	Reel Mowers	Rotary Mowers
Cutting Quality	Provides a clean cut that is ideal for Bermuda grass, promoting healthy growth.	Can create ragged cuts, which may affect the health of Bermuda grass over time.
Ease of Use	Lightweight and maneuverable, suitable for small to medium lawns.	Generally heavier and may require more effort, especially on uneven terrain.
Maintenance	Requires regular sharpening of blades but has fewer mechanical parts.	More complex machinery with higher maintenance needs and potential repairs.
Cost	Usually less expensive upfront, making it accessible for budget-conscious buyers.	Tends to have a higher initial cost along with ongoing fuel and maintenance expenses.
Environmental Impact	Quiet operation and no emissions, making it eco-friendly.	Can be noisy and produces emissions, impacting the environment.
Best Use Cases	Ideal for smaller, well-maintained lawns where precision is key.	Better suited for larger, uneven lawns or overgrown grass.
Noise Level	Operates quietly, allowing for mowing without disturbing neighbors.	Can be loud, potentially causing disturbances while mowing.

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