Mulching Lawnmowers V Collecting Lawnmowers
Maintaining a pristine garden over 1 acre in size requires the right equipment to ensure efficiency and superior results. At John Miller Garden Machinery, we understand the importance of choosing the right lawnmower for your specific needs. Today, we review Mulching Lawnmowers and Collecting Lawnmowers. We’ll look at the differences between mulching lawnmowers and collecting lawnmowers, evaluating factors such as speed, accuracy, grass length, and the time it takes to mow an acre. Let’s help you decide which type fits your garden best.
Mulching lawnmowers (sometimes called non-collecting lawnmowers) finely chop the grass clippings and redistribute them across your lawn. This process naturally fertilises the soil, retaining moisture and nutrients.
Pros:
- Eco-Friendly: Reduces waste since no grass collection is required.
- Nutrient-Rich Lawn: Grass clippings act as a natural fertiliser, promoting healthier and greener lawns.
- Saves Time: No need to stop and empty a grass collector (and you don’t have to find somewhere to put the grass cuttings either)
Cons:
- Not Ideal for Long Grass: Struggles with longer, thicker grass, especially if neglected for a period.
- Potential Thatch Build-Up: Excess clippings can sometimes contribute to thatch if not properly distributed.
Performance Insights:
- Speed: Typically, a mulching lawnmower can cover 1 acre in about 1-1.5 hours, depending on the model and cutting width.
- Accuracy: Produces an even cut if the grass is maintained regularly.
- Grass Length: Best for lawns mown frequently (2-3 times a week in peak growing seasons).
Collecting lawnmowers are designed to gather grass clippings in a bag or hopper, leaving your lawn clean and free of debris.
Pros:
- Clean Finish: Leaves no grass clippings on the lawn, providing a neat and tidy appearance.
- Ideal for Long Grass: Efficiently handles longer and thicker grass, making it suitable for gardens that are not mowed as frequently.
- Reduced Thatch Risk: Grass clippings are collected, thus reducing thatch formation.
Cons:
- Frequent Emptying: Requires periodic stops to empty the collector, which can be time-consuming (and you have to find somewhere to put the grass cuttings)
- Nutrient Loss: Does not return grass nutrients back to the soil.
Performance Insights:
- Speed: Mowing an acre usually takes around 1.5-2 hours, considering the additional time needed to empty the collector.
- Accuracy: Delivers a uniform cut, and the cleanliness is excellent.
- Grass Length: Can deal effectively with a variety of grass lengths, including longer growth.
Which is Best for Your Garden Over 1 Acre?
Speed & Efficiency:
For those who value speed and reduced maintenance time, mulching lawnmowers edge out. You'll save time by not stopping to empty a collector, making them ideal for frequent mowers.
Accuracy & Finish:
If a pristine, clean finish is your priority, especially in a well-manicured garden, collecting lawnmowers excel. They ensure your lawn looks immaculate after each mow.
Grass Length:
For longer and thicker grass, typically found in larger gardens that aren't mowed as frequently, collecting lawnmowers are preferable. Mulching lawnmowers are best for keeping up with more frequent mowing schedules.
Conclusion
Both mulching and collecting lawnmowers have their place in the world of garden machinery. The key lies in understanding your garden’s specific needs and your personal preferences.
Here at John Miller Garden Machinery, our extensive range of high-quality lawn mowers and brands such a Stihl and John Deere ensures that we have the perfect solution for every gardener.
For personalised advice and to see our range of lawnmowers in person, visit us in Chippenham or explore our shop online. We're committed to helping every customer achieve their dream garden with the best tools and most reliable service. Happy mowing!