Reel Mowers: Everything You Need to Know

by Keira May 25, 2022

written by Keira May 25, 2022

What Is a Reel Mower and How to Use It

What Is a Reel Mower?

A reel mower is a manual or push mower that does not use fuel, electricity, or oil. It is powered by the person pushing it. Most reel mowers have two primary wheels and several sharp blades in a cylinder that spin around to cut the grass.

How Does a Reel Mower Work?

Unlike rotary mowers, which have blades that spin on a plane parallel to the ground, reel mower blades spin at an angle perpendicular to the ground. This scissor-like action cuts the grass cleanly, without tearing or shredding it.

Why Use a Reel Mower?

Reel mowers offer several advantages over rotary mowers, especially for small lawns:

Environmentally friendly: Reel mowers do not emit any pollutants, making them a greener choice.
Lightweight and safer to use: Reel mowers are typically lighter than rotary mowers and do not have any exposed blades, making them safer for children and pets.
Noise-free: Reel mowers are virtually silent, eliminating noise pollution.
Lower maintenance costs: Reel mowers have no engines or spark plugs, so they require less maintenance and are less expensive to operate.

Disadvantages of Reel Mowers

Reel mowers also have some disadvantages:

Not as efficient on tall grass: Reel mowers are not as effective at cutting tall grass as rotary mowers.
Can’t handle debris: Reel mowers can get clogged with twigs and leaves, requiring manual removal.
Not suitable for large areas: Reel mowers are best suited for small lawns, as pushing them across a large area can be strenuous.

How to Choose the Best Reel Mower for Your Lawn

When choosing a reel mower, consider the following factors:

Size of your lawn: Reel mowers are best suited for lawns up to 1/2 acre.
Type of grass: Reel mowers are ideal for fine-bladed grasses, such as fescue and bluegrass.
Frequency of mowing: If you mow your lawn frequently, a reel mower can be a good option.
Budget: Reel mowers range in price from $100 to $300.

How to Use a Reel Mower

Using a reel mower is simple:

Adjust the desired grass cut height with the adjusting lever located on each wheel of the mower.
Push the mower around the yard, cutting the grass.
Clean off the reel mower after finishing by brushing away the grass clippings.

How to Maintain Reel Mowers

The primary maintenance task for reel mowers is sharpening the blades. This should be done once or twice a year. You can buy sharpening kits or use a grinding stone, grinding paste, and newspaper.

When to Replace Your Reel Mower

Reel mowers can last for many years with proper care. However, if you find yourself not having the time to mow often with a reel mower, or you’ve gotten a larger yard, then you should consider replacing it with a powered mower.

Additional Tips for Using a Reel Mower

After each use, wipe or wash off any grass clippings that have built up on the mower.
Store the reel mower in a dry place to help keep it from rusting.
If you have a larger lawn, consider using a rechargeable battery-powered mower, which offers similar benefits to a reel mower with less effort.

Keira

Keira is a seasoned gardener with a rich background in education and a passion for transforming even the smallest, most challenging spaces into lush, productive gardens. With over two decades of experience in both teaching and gardening, she brings a unique blend of skills and insights to Life Science Art, where she shares her expertise through engaging and informative articles. Keira's journey into gardening began in her early years, inspired by her grandmother's ability to coax vibrant blooms and hearty vegetables from the rocky soil of their family farm. This early exposure to the wonders of gardening planted a seed of curiosity and love for plants that has only grown over the years. Before fully immersing herself in the world of gardening, Keira spent many years as a special education teacher. This role honed her patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills—qualities that have proven invaluable in her gardening endeavors. Her teaching experience also gave her a deep understanding of the diverse needs and capabilities of individuals, which she now applies to helping others learn to garden effectively, regardless of their starting point. Keira specializes in small-space gardening, low-income gardening, and cultivating plants in poor soil conditions. She understands that not everyone has access to vast, fertile lands or unlimited resources, and she is dedicated to making gardening accessible and rewarding for everyone. Living in urban areas or having limited outdoor space shouldn't be a barrier to enjoying the benefits of gardening. Keira has mastered the art of maximizing every inch of available space, whether it's a tiny balcony, a cramped backyard, or a window sill. Her innovative techniques and creative solutions help her readers grow a variety of plants in the most confined spaces. Keira is also a strong advocate for low-income gardening. She believes that everyone should have the opportunity to grow their own food and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of gardening, regardless of their financial situation. Through her articles, she shares practical tips on budget-friendly gardening methods, repurposing household items, and making the most of available resources. Her advice empowers individuals and families to start and maintain gardens without breaking the bank. Not everyone is blessed with rich, loamy soil. Keira's expertise extends to growing plants in less-than-ideal soil conditions. She provides guidance on improving soil quality, selecting hardy plant varieties, and employing sustainable practices to ensure a bountiful harvest, even in challenging environments. Her hands-on experience and proven techniques help gardeners turn even the poorest soil into a thriving garden. Keira's contributions to Life Science Art are invaluable. Her articles cover a wide range of topics, from step-by-step guides on planting and maintaining specific types of gardens to tips on dealing with common gardening challenges. She also delves into the science behind plant growth, soil health, and sustainable gardening practices, making complex concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Beyond her technical expertise, Keira's writing is infused with warmth and encouragement. She understands that gardening is not just about growing plants; it's about fostering a connection with nature, finding peace and fulfillment, and building a community. Her personal anecdotes and down-to-earth advice resonate with readers, inspiring them to embark on their own gardening journeys with confidence and joy. Keira invites you to join her on Life Science Art, where she shares her wealth of knowledge and passion for gardening. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, her articles offer valuable insights, practical tips, and the inspiration you need to create your own green oasis. Discover the joys of gardening with Keira as your guide and unlock the potential of your outdoor space, no matter how small or challenging it may be.