The best pre-emergent for your lawn is The Anderson’s Barricade pre-emergent because it is the highest quality, purest, and safest pre-emergent. I’ve been using Barricade for the past few seasons and have had amazing results – but there are other good options, too.
Upgrading to a nice pre-emergent made a huge difference in my lawn. I had historically used a generic all-in-one pre-emergent and fertilizer combo like Scotts Turf Builder. This worked okay until I started noticing new weeds that I had never had in my lawn. Scotts just wasn’t high quality enough and didn’t seem to care as much as we did about our lawn.
We made the switch over to The Andersons and have started using a ton of their products. My first recommendation to you is to grab their Yard Star spreader. It is a bit expensive but absolutely worth it when compared to other broadcast spreaders.
Pre-emergents are herbicides used to prevent weeds from sprouting in your lawn. I apply granular pre-emergent to my lawn in the Spring using a broadcast spreader before it starts to get too warm.
Pre-emergents work by selectively preventing weeds and invasive grasses from growing at the same time as your grass. Weeds love the spring because fools like me will stand outside and do everything to create an amazing environment for my grass to grow. Meanwhile, weeds are feeding off of the same fertilizers, water, and sunshine as grass.
Nipping weeds in the bud (literally) with pre-emergents is the best way to get year-round green grass without a ton of weeds mixed in.
When do I put down pre-emergent?
The best time to apply pre-emergent is in the Spring as the soil begins to warm up. I live in Tennessee, so I put pre-emergent down usually around the first week of March – depending on what the weather is doing that year.
Later in the year, I put down pre-emergent again in the Fall prior to aerating and overseeding my lawn. This helps the other opportunistic weeds from enjoying my Fall lawn routine just like my grass does.
For folks that live further North, pre-emergent may be put down in late April once all the snow has melted and your lawn is thawed out.
How much pre-emergent do I need?
It depends on the type of pre-emergent you need. The Andersons Barricade has 18 lbs of pre-emergent to cover 5,800 sq. ft.
If you need to know how many square feet your lawn is, simply go to myyardsize.com and follow the instructions. This is super helpful because I know how big my lot is WITH my house, but not the actual lawn size that I would apply the pre-emergent.
What are the best pre-emergents?
I’ve used quite a few pre-emergents and have had varying results. Here are the three best pre-emergents I’ve used in my lawn.
The Andersons Barricade pre-emergent
The Andersons Barricade is what I used in my lawn last year and what I will be using again this year. Barricade is super high quality and absolutely pinned down any weeds that I would have normally gotten. It also comes in a nice granular form and was easy to put down in my spreader.
The next best pre-emergent is Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy weed preventer. This is a cheaper pre-emergent than The Andersons Barricade, but is a bit of a decrease in quality. At about half the price, Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer is still a great option that will provide broad coverage against weeds and invasive grasses.
The Andersons Crabgrass Preventer is a great all-around pre-emergent AND fertilizer mixture. This pre-emergent is better suited for the Fall when growth is more active than in the early Spring when growth hasn’t started yet. The combination of pre-emergent and fertilizer allows you to keep the new growth weeds at bay while providing solid nutrition for your lawn.
A mulching blade on a lawn mower is a blade designed to finely cut grass clippings, leaves, or other debris. Mulching blades are great for fall weather or yards with mixed grass types or are significantly overgrown.
Bottom Line:For most homeowners, mulching blades should not be used for regular lawn mowing. A good analogy for mulching blades on mowers is like using a chainsaw to slice a cake. Mulching blades are overkill and will shred your grass and give it an uneven cut.
Mulching blades on Lawn Mowers: Explained
Most mulching blades on lawn mowers have a curvature that creates airflow and circulates and repeatedly cuts the same grass until it is finely shredded. Other mulching blades have teeth on the end that can cut up smaller pieces of debris and shred through leaves with no problem.
Some mulching blades have both teeth AND a curvature. All mulching blades have a longer cutting edge that allows for enhanced cutting.
Different types of mulching blades on lawn mowers
The two main types of mulching blades include curved blades and then mulching blades with teeth. Let’s take a look at both.
Curved mulching blades on mowers
Curved mulching blades are typically referred to as 3-in-1 mulching blades and sometimes come standard with lower-end lawn mowers. Curved mulching blades are heavier than normal blades and have a longer cutting blade (meaning the sharpened part is extended down towards the center of the blade).
My recommendation when it comes to curved mulching blades is to buy them separately from the rest of the mower. I would use the curved blade as an attachment during the Fall when your grass is super thick and leaves are piling up on your lawn.
High lift lawn mowing blades
High lift lawn mowing blades are the standard, thinner blades that are typically used with side discharge mowers. They are able to spin with more precision and provide a cleaner cut. The blade length is smaller so that the mower is able to chop-and-go without tossing around a ton of clippings.
My recommendation with high lift blades is to use them for the majority of the Spring and Summer before leaves start hitting the ground. High lift mowing blades will provide your lawn a clean, even cut.
What are Gator blades on a lawn mower?
Gator blades are mulching blades with specifically designed features including patented teeth and other designs that intensify mulching. Gator blades are made by Oregon products – a brand that makes chainsaw chains and other cutting tools.
Gator blades are great for highly intense mulching needs and are super aggressive.
Do I need mulching blades on a zero-turn mower?
In my opinion, mulching blades are not necessary for most zero-turn mowers. Zero-turn mowers provide so much power and cutting force that altering the blade is not necessary.
There is a time and a place for mulching blades on zero-turn mowers if the goal is to bag the clippings or leaves. A mulching blade may help cut the grass into finer pieces to make bagging more efficient. Otherwise – you can skip it.
Best mulching blades for lawn mowers: 2024 Edition
Here are some of the highest quality mulching blades you can add to your mower.
MTD Genuine Parts Mulching Blade with Adapter
The MTD mulching blade and adapter kit is great for 21 inch lawn mowers, both push and self-propelled. I like this mulching blade because it is inexpensive, fits just about every mower, and comes with an adapter to make sure it fits well on your mower.
Photo cred: MTD Genuine Parts
If you look closely, you will notice that this is a curved-blade mower blade that creates a vacuum effect that finely chops your grass for you. If you have a classic Troy Bilt mower or really any 21 inch mower – battery powered or gas – this one is a great, cheap option.
Oregon is the original creator of the Gator Blade. If you want an intense, aggressive mulching blade, then this is the one for you. The G5 Gator Blade has:
Ability to fit most 21 inch mowers
Sharp teeth on both ends of the blade
Tungsten-reinforced blades for extreme durability
Extended cutting length on the blade
Photo cred: Gator.
Basically, the G5 Gator Blade will absolutely shred the living daylights out of any mulching job you need done.
You should put mulching blades on your mower if you want to finely chop up some leaves or are about to mow a super thick, out-of-control lawn.
Which is better, mulching or high-lift blades?
Mulching blades are better for finely cutting leaves and grass and high-lift blades are better for even, smooth lawn mowing.
Is it better to use a mulching mower?
There aren’t really mulching mowers, just mulching blades. I prefer using regular blades on any kind of mower and then adding the mulching blade on as needed.
The best electric mower brands in 2024 are EGO, Greenworks, and Milwaukee – in that order. I have spent the last three years testing out battery powered and electric mowers, including walking each mower on the street until the battery died (this took hours).
If you are looking for a new electric mower – make sure you include brand quality in your search. It is so easy to buy a cheap electric mower and think you got a deal, until approximately 3 months later when it just stops working.
If you want to see why I’ve chosen these brands and the testing I have personally put into dozens of electric lawn mowers, check out my YouTube channel.
EGO is the best electric lawn mower brand
EGO’s electric mowers are the best on the market. I say this as someone who has done extensive testing comparing EGO to every other major lawn tool brand. When I first made a Ryobi vs EGO electric mower video back in 2022, I thought the comparison would be dead even.
After the first time I turned on the self-propelled function of the EGO electric mower, I knew the battle was over. The noticeable difference in weight, sturdiness, and raw power puts the EGO in a class of its own. We have also heard some major rumblings that EGO is releasing an electric mower with a metal cutting deck.
EGO has many electric mowers that you can use that all have different features. Check out some of the posts below that highlight various comparisons or breakdowns of EGO mowers:
Overall, I love the simplicity that EGO provides by having one battery voltage lineup. It means that you can use your EGO battery with any EGO product without fail, which allows you to buy the tool-only version of lawn tools.
Greenworks is an almost equally amazing electric mower brand
Greenworks is a lesser known but nearly equally great electric mower brand. I’ve had the opportunity to use a TON of different Greenworks tools and really liked their 80V electric mower. When it comes to electric mowers, the Greenworks 80V mower checks all the boxes: a brushless motor, a wide metal cutting deck, a nice battery system, self-propelled functions, and a long run-time.
I really can’t complain. I put Greenworks as the second best electric mower brand because they sell TOO MANY mowers. For example, right now when I go to their website and search for push lawn mowers I get 56 products. As a consumer, these many choices are overwhelming and it’s part of the reason we created the Lawn Review in the first place.
While most of these mowers are amazing, they range so broadly in application type, voltage, corded and cordless, that it is almost impossible to sort through the noise. I love the simplicity of EGO and Milwaukee keeping a consistent battery line.
Either way, Greenworks is an amazing electric mower brand. Here are a few of my posts related to Greenworks electric mowers:
Milwaukee has the best electric mower but not enough options
Milwaukee made the best electric mower on the market when they made their M18 mower. But then they stopped – exhausting all resources to make this pristine and beautiful beast of an electric mower.
For some reason, Milwaukee just has ONE electric mower across their entire brand. Don’t get me wrong, it is the greatest mower ever, but I’m scratching my head as to why they wouldn’t make one at a lower price point. The Milwaukee M18 is an expensive battery powered mower.
Something tells me Milwaukee will change this up, although it is unlikely that anything bigger and badder from them is going to be any cheaper. For now, it is tough to call them the best electric mower brand when they really only have one mower – but boy is the Milwaukee M18 a great mower.
Here are some posts where I talk about my experience with the Milwaukee M18 mower:
When looking to purchase an electric lawn mower, you need to make sure you understand what things matter. You will get hit with a lot of technical specifications and marketing tactics. Totally forget them and focus on the things that impact you. Below are my recommendations:
Battery powered mower brand quality
Quality is going to be super important here. Just about everyone is in the electric mower game these days and there are a ton of junky mowers out there. Avoid anything from a weird brand on Amazon that takes 9 years to ship. It is probably being 3D printed in a Laotian bathroom. Go for brands that have consistent quality and focus on the details, not just flashy colors.
Some brands I trust off the top of my head are: Greenworks, Milwaukee, Makita, Toro, EGO, and Kobalt. SOME Ryobi mowers, although myself and others have had some problems with reliability. Brand quality matters, but it’s also important to look at the specs on each. For example, Greenworks sells like 60 mowers, only a handful of them would I ever consider for this list. EGO also sells a bunch of mowers, and only a few are within an acceptable price range to be on this list.
Metal where it matters: the deck
Most electric mowers are plastic-y. Probably to reduce the weight of the mower so that the battery can get you further, but it feels cheap. Make sure to get metal where it matters – namely the deck. The deck is the part that covers the blades. Don’t get plastic here – a rock can rip through it.
Battery interoperability.
A ten dollar word used here, but really just make sure to buy a mower with a battery that is compatible with other electric tools. You’ll see a bunch of these brands that have battery lines that work with a ton of tools. Milwaukee, Makita, and Dewalt are all great options because you can use them for all lawn tools AND power tools – saving you a ton of money on extra batteries.
If you have more questions, check out our guide to electric lawn mowers, where we break this down into a lot more detail.
Self-propelled or not
Self-propelled mowers are lawn mowers that slowly crawl forward when mowing the lawn. They propel forward the mower, taking off a lot of the “pushing power” required by traditional push mowers.
Self-propelled mowers are ALWAYS more expensive because they have the additional power and functionality that makes life easier. They have their place, but because of the cost can often seem not totally worth it
Tool-only lawn tools are purchased without a battery and charger. While tool-only lawn tools seem like a rip-off they are actually great deals if purchased correctly.
You can get tool-only versions of just about every major battery-powered lawn tool if you know where to look. The cost of additional batteries for lawn tools like lawn mowers, leaf blowers, or string trimmers can add hundreds of dollars to your overall lawn tools.
The benefits of tool-only lawn tools
I like to buy tool-only lawn tools whenever I add a new lawn tool to my arsenal. I buy tool-only when I already own the battery for the tool AND the battery life can last for two tools.
For example, I would buy a tool-only Greenworks 60V hedge trimmer after I already owned their Greenworks 60V string trimmer. Because I already purchased the battery and charger with the string trimmer AND because the string trimmer will have battery power left over after using it, I am able to maximize the value.
The tool-only Greenworks 60V hedge trimmer.
The conversation becomes more complex if you buy a lawn mower and string trimmer combo kit. These types of combo kits can be amazing for thrifty folks looking to save money on a battery and charger, but you need to purchase carefully.
If you have a big yard and want to use the battery mower and string trimmer in the same afternoon, you may want to go ahead and purchase a separate battery. Most batteries take well over an hour or two to fully charge, so a backup will be super helpful in keeping the job moving.
Where to find tool-only lawn tool deals
Home Depot is known for having a ton of tool-only options (which you can check out here). On many of these lawn tools, you can save up to $60-$75 by getting the tool-only version.
Look for this!
If you are someone that owns a bunch of hand tools from a brand like Makita or Milwaukee, its possible to save hundreds of dollars on a Milwaukee M18 mower or Makita LXT mower that comes with four batteries.
My recommendation for buying lawn tools
One of my top recommendations for folks looking to transition from gas to battery-powered lawn tools is to spend the most time picking the first tool. Once you have a core battery line, then it makes it easier to purchase additional tools in the lineup. You can save money on the next tool and then if you need to buy extra batteries down the road, you have a ton of tools you can use them with.
My favorite lawn tool battery lines
Some of these lawn tool manufacturers have a bunch of different battery lines. I have used probably 20 different lawn tools battery lines and have a few recommendations.
The EGO 56V battery line of lawn tools
EGO’s 56V battery lineup is their ONLY line of battery. EGO is hands down my favorite battery brand because of the simplicity of the singular battery voltage. All batteries work with all tools. Seems simple, right?
So many other brands focus on getting batteries from 18V, 20V, 40V, 36V, 80V – it seems to never end. EGO stuck with 56V (for some reason) and has continued to pump out powerful product after powerful product.
Here are some of my favorite EGO products that I’ve tested:
Greenworks is lesser known but puts out some absolute banger lawn tools. I’ve had the chance to review a ton of these tools over on my YouTube channel. The 80V lineup from Greenworks has some really slick and powerful tools that can all be supported by different Ah batteries.
While Greenworks has several other battery voltage options, I’ve stuck mostly with their 80V tools because the battery puts out quite a bit of power and you can grab their tools on Amazon or even Costco.
Here are some of my favorite Greenworks 80V tools that I’ve tested:
We have tested hundreds of battery powered and electric lawn tools. Our goal is for our readers to understand what it is REALLY like to use each tool that we test. Plain English, no technical jargon – just a couple of folks talking lawn tools. You can find more about us by checking us out on YouTube or on Instagram where we have videos of us using just about every tool on this website + DIY guides.
When it comes to maintaining a lush and thriving garden or efficiently cleaning outdoor spaces, having a reliable and versatile garden hose nozzle is essential.
With a wide range of options available in the market, choosing the best garden hose nozzle can be overwhelming. In fact, I wrote this guide because the first time I bought a garden hose nozzle it was a leaky piece of junk.
Scroll down or click any of the links above to get more detail about why these were chosen as the three best garden hose nozzles.
The 3 Best Garden Hose Nozzles
Let’s get right into it – read below to see more detail about these garden hose nozzles.
Orbit 7-Pattern Garden Hose Nozzle
This has been my nozzle for countless years, truly a beast built to last. The Orbit 7 Pattern Nozzle 56529 has 7 spray patterns built for every type of job. If you plan on buying this purely for the jet setting, I recommend you look into investing in a good pressure washer instead.
I have noticed some slight leakage at the connector if I don’t screw it in enough, but it’s nothing to worry about. The main things that set it apart from its competitors are its rear trigger lock and insulated hand grip.
My neighbor owns this nozzle and I asked for his feedback on it. He says that it is very versatile and doesn’t chip at all when dropped, his only criticism is that it leaks a little bit from time to time. This nozzle contains 9 different patterns – at what point is it too much – that will fit every specific need you may have.
One thing that made me slightly jealous of my neighbor’s nozzle is that it has a “One Touch Valve” where instead of a trigger that you have to hold down constantly or an annoying lock, you just have to slide it up and down to adjust the water with your thumb and it sticks.
Need a watering wand for a bigger garden bed? The Relaxed Gardener is a nice garden hose nozzle attachment with a long neck that basically serves as a never ending watering can. My friend Tyler (the guy who does all of our Youtube videos) has one of these and just totes it around his backyard where he has extensive garden beds.
The Relaxed Gardener watering wand has a “One Touch Valve” that saves you from having to hold down the trigger. This garden hose nozzle produces a strong, heavy stream of water but the opening is like a shower head, distributing the pressure so much that the water is very gentle.
Photo cred: Amazon.
Positives:
One touch throttle
Comfortable to hold
Lightweight and easy to store
Negatives:
Prone to scratching and getting dinged up around the plastic parts
Importance of choosing the right garden hose nozzle
A good garden hose nozzle can make all the difference in your lawn care/gardening experience. A well-designed nozzle can ease your experience, saving time, water, and ensure your garden gets the right amount of water it needs.
A good garden hose nozzle should offer a wide range of spray patterns, from mist for delicate plants and flowers, to a powerful jet stream for cleaning dirt and tough messes. It should also be comfortable to use and built to withstand years of use.
So, before you settle for any old nozzle, take a moment to consider your needs and preferences. Your plants will thank you for it.
Some things I look for when buying a garden hose nozzle
Here are a few quick things I evaluate about my own setup before buying a new garden hose nozzle.
Water pressure and flow rate requirements
When it comes to watering, not all plants have the same thirst. Some prefer a gentle shower, while others crave a strong stream. That’s why it’s important to consider the water pressure and flow rate requirements of my garden before buying a nozzle. I make sure the nozzle I choose can deliver the right amount of water for my needs.
Durability and construction materials
Gardening can be a rough and dirty business, and your hose nozzle will likely endure its fair share of abuse. Look for a nozzle made of durable materials, such as metal or high-quality plastic, that can withstand the occasional drop or bump without falling apart.
Ergonomics and ease of use
Nobody likes an uncomfortable nozzle. Look for a nozzle that is designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring a comfortable grip and easy-to-use controls. After all, watering your plants should bring joy, not hand cramps.
Compatibility with different hose sizes
Hoses come in various sizes, and the last thing you want is a nozzle that refuses to play nice with your garden hose. Before making a purchase, check if the nozzle is compatible with your hose size. Trust me, you’ll save yourself a lot of frustration and trips back to the store.
Adjustable spray patterns
Having a nozzle that offers adjustable spray patterns gives you the versatility to tackle a variety of gardening tasks, from watering delicate plants to rinsing off stubborn dirt.
Leak-proof connectors
Nobody likes water spraying out from unexpected places. Ensure the nozzle has leak-proof connectors that securely attach to your hose, preventing unnecessary water wastage and frustration.
Insulated handle for comfortable grip
Gardening should be a pleasure, not a pain. Look for a nozzle with an insulated handle that keeps your hand comfortable, even during long watering sessions. No more scorching hot or freezing cold handles!
Hedge trimmers are great tools for keeping a crisp, clean looking lawn. My wife always calls it a well-manicured lawn and it is the standard that we keep for getting “curb appeal”.
Yeah…these will get the job done!
Keeping your yard and garden neat and tidy means regular maintenance. One essential task is trimming and shaping hedges and other shrubs and bushes. If you only have one or two plants, a manual trimmer or garden shears will work. But, for longer hedgerows, grouped shrubs, and other established plantings, a hedge trimmer will make trimming and maintenance easy.
My experience with electric hedge trimmers
Probably my favorite outdoor chore growing up was trimming the bushes. Picking up the leaves after was another story, but there is something so satisfying about shaping a bush into exactly the shape you want. I also like that there is a color-change aspect to trimming a bush as well, making it super satisfying.
Hedge trimmers that are older than I am and still work.
I’ve used a ton of corded electric hedge trimmers and a few cordless. I grew up constantly worrying about the extension cord getting cut in half or falling out. When I switched over to cordless, I had to worry about the weight distribution and running out of juice.
Both are great options in my experience, but I want you to make up your own mind.
What Is a Hedge Trimmer?
This special tool has a blade that ranges from five to 26 inches long (like this Greenworks 60V hedge trimmer).This is the ideal length for cutting through shrub branches up to 3/4-inch thick. Hedge trimmers are powered by one of three sources; gas, electricity, or battery powered.The type of fuel that powers the trimmer will have an impact on how easy it is to use and how well it performs.
What Can I Do With a Hedge Trimmer?
As the name implies, a hedge trimmer is a tool for keeping hedges trimmed. However, that’s not all it can do. In fact, a hedge trimmer can help with a variety of garden chores. Just a few include:
Trim and shape bushes
Prune perennials and tall ornamental grasses,
Trimming ground cover
Cutting small little bushes
Cutting large, dry weeds and overgrowth
Pruning small trees and branches
Cutting debris and small sticks
Removing unwanted vines and other foliage
As you can see, a good hedge trimmer makes sense. In fact, we think it’s a pretty wise investment. But, before you get your credit card out, find out what to look for in a hedge trimmer.
Hedge Trimmer Features to Look For
If you’re in the market for a reliable new hedge trimmer, there are a few features you’ll want to take note of:
Weight and ease of use
The overall weight of your hedge trimmer fully fueled is a very important consideration. A gas hedge trimmer will weigh the most, battery-powered units are moderately heavy and electric plug-in hedge trimmers are the lightest.
Maneuverability is also a huge component as you want one that gives you flexibility, is two-sided, and can be used comfortably for a long period of time. For this reason, a good solid grip is really important.
Blades
Hedge trimmers come in single or double action. Single action means one blade moves while another is still. In a double action trimmer, both blades move. I prefer double action blades because you can go up and down a bush without having to restart at the top or move into a different position.
Safety Features
All of your lawn and garden tools pose a threat if not handled properly. Look for a hedge trimmer with safety features such as a quick power-off button and blade guard. Blade guards are great for storage and some tools have guards near the handle that protect from stray brush flying back into your face if you are getting really into a bush.
Nice brush guard on this one.
Value for the Money
New lawn tools are fun, but they should also be practical. Get yourself a hedge trimmer that’s got all the power you need without spending a fortune. It is easy to find the best hedge trimmer on the market, but its another to find the absolute best hedge trimmer for the money. A lot goes into the value equation. For example, there’s a great WORX hedge trimmer that is corded electric that is absolutely phenomenal.
Different types of hedge trimmers explained
Hedge trimmers surprisingly don’t come in all shapes and sizes, but there are a few notable types out there to understand. Let’s get into it.
I think corded hedge trimmers can be great since they are cheap, have unlimited run time (as long as you pay your bills) and seem to last forever. The downside is that they have limitations with mobility and tend to become unplugged.
Cordless hedge trimmers are more expensive and have a fixed run time, but are way easier to operate without any limitations. They are great tools that can be bought for pretty cheap if you already own the batteries on another tool from the same lineup.
Gas hedge trimmers are more common for professional use, but I suppose could have some use around the house as well. The main downside to gas powered hedge trimmers is the maintenance schedule.
Get Ready for More Beautiful Hedges, Bushes and Shrubs
Now that you’re a hedge trimming expert, you can confidently make the investment. You’ll have beautifully sculpted hedges, perfectly pruned bushes, and gorgeously shaped shrubs your neighbors will envy in no time.
Next thing you know, you’ll be shaping your bushes into various statues and looking quite exquisite.
Why we review lawn tools
The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
Common questions about hedge trimmers
How much does a hedge trimmer cost?
A good hedge trimmer will cost anywhere from $100 to $300 depending on whether you get corded or cordless versions.
What size hedge trimmer do I need?
A great hedge trimmer size for home use is around 22 inches up to 26 inches.
What are the popular types of hedge trimmers?
Popular hedge trimmer types include corded, cordless, and gas powered hedge trimmers – with corded being the most popular.
How often should I oil my hedge trimmer?
I oil my hedge trimmer yearly, but only trim a few times per year. If you have a LOT of bushes, I would bump it up to about 2-3x per year.
What are some popular hedge trimmer brands?
Popular hedge trimmer brands include BLACK+DECKER, Dewalt, and Makita.
When should you make the leap to buying a riding mower? During the Spring, Summer, and Fall months, you’re going to need to mow your lawn regularly to keep it healthy and attractive. It can be a back-breaking task, especially if you use a push mower.
You may have considered a riding mower, but is it the right choice for you and your property? Your physical abilities, yard size, and type are all factors to consider. After reading about my experiences with both push and riding mowers, you’ll be able to make the decision that best suits the needs of your yard.
And make your neighbors jealous.
My experience with riding mowers
When I was a kid and it was my older brother’s turn to mow the lawn, I remember my parents screaming at him for having the speed all the way up to “bunny” when it should have been on “turtle”. The mower was dang fast and my brother took every chance he could to max that thing out.
And at the risk of sounding old, they don’t make them like they used to. But there are still some great brands out there that make awesome riding mowers. Between zero turns and lawn tractors, you can get a high quality piece of equipment that is still made with serious care. I’ve had the pleasure of using dozens of different mowers and have found consistencies across some that have stuck with me over the years.
When to get a riding mower: my process
That is a difficult question for anyone to answer, except you. However, we can say that the type of lawn mower, lawn tractor, zero turn or push behind, that will work best for you depends on a few things. Before you change over to a new type of mower, ask yourself a few key questions:
Is Your Lawn a Half-Acre or Less?
If you have a smaller yard, a push mower is generally going to be your best option. They are more maneuverable than a riding mower, which is essential for a small space. For lawns more than a half-acre in size, a riding mower will make the job faster and easier.
Here’s how I think about it:
Yard size
Type of mower
0 to ½ of an acre
Push mower or self-propelled walk-behind
½ to 1.5 acres
Lawn tractor
1.5 acres and up
Zero turn mower
How I approach when to buy a riding mower.
Are You Physically Able to Push a Mower?
Your physical condition and stamina should be a top consideration when deciding on the type of mower to use. Starting a push mower is tough, and pushing it around is even harder. If you’re older, not fit, or suffer from health issues, a riding mower is a safer, more practical option.
A nice self-propelled mower.
You can definitely get self-propelled push mowers which take a lot of the burden off of the operator, but nothing compares to the speed and ease of use of a riding mower.
Do You Want to Decrease the Amount of Time Mowing Takes?
If you have a tiny yard, it might only take a few minutes, but mowing a larger yard with a push mower can be time consuming. If you would rather spend your free time doing things you enjoy, you want to ditch the push mower and get yourself a rider.
My family friend has a .92 acre lot of land where their home sits. Last time I went over there, I spoke with him about how he mows his lawn. One thing I noticed was the narrow stripes in his lawn. I was aghast to learn that he still uses a push mower in his lawn.
Yeah, this one will save you time.
A whopping one hour and 15 minutes he spends every week pushing a mower across his lawn. A glutton for punishment or someone who uses their mower for cardio? Not sure. Either way, you would find me in a riding mower so fast you wouldn’t know what hit you.
Have Trees, Stones, or Other Landscape Obstructions?
Mowing around landscape features with a push mower can be time-consuming and exhausting.You’ll be pushing and pulling, turning, and back-tracking just to get the job done.Even if your yard is less than a half acre, a riding mower makes it easier on you to mow around obstructions. .
Can NOT disrupt this beautiful scene.
This is where zero-turn mowers have a huge advantage. They are extremely nimble navigators and make quick work of complex lawns. Because you can turn so quickly and tightly, you don’t have to make 8-point turns just to get around your landscaping bed.
Even riding mowers can do a great job of getting the vast majority of grass, which can then be followed with a nice weed eater to finish the job. Can’t do all that nearly as easily as you can with a push mower.
What’s the Terrain of Your Property Like?
If your lawn is sloped, the downhill strip will be relatively easy with a push mower, but the uphill strip will be much more difficult. With a riding mower, you can handle slopes and other terrain issues without all the physical strain.
One advantage of zero turn mowers vs lawn tractors is lawn scalping. Your lawn can get scalped, or random bald patches where you cut way too deep, because lawn tractors are more rigid in their construction and don’t flow as freely as zero turns.
Do You Need to Move Items on Your Property?
One of the major benefits of a riding lawn mower is that they are often equipped with a hitch on the back. That means you can attach a cart to carry whatever you need to. A dump cart, for example, is a great way to move garden supplies, debris, and more.
A lot of folks reach out to me to ask about what kinds of attachments you can pull. I wrote a long article about the best trailers for lawn mowers that can really up your lawn mower game. Some of them even have little carts on the back, covers for use in the snow, and collection bags – which are great for leaf clean up.
Rider or Push Mower? What’s Your Choice?
Mowing your lawn is a necessity. Working too hard isn’t. Choosing the right kind of new lawn mower can be a bit daunting. But, now you have a few guidelines to help you make the right choice between a riding mower and a push mower.
Why we started writing about mowers
The reason we started The Lawn Review in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
When buying a riding mower you need to consider the size of your lawn, your budget, mower brand and reputation, and comfort level. One of my favorite riding mower brands is Husqvarna as they have a huge array of quality riding mowers.
Are you ready to upgrade from a push mower to a rider? Congratulations! Your mowing and lawn maintenance tasks are about to get a whole lot easier and faster. That is, as long as you choose the right riding lawn mower for your needs. To ensure you invest in a machine that can handle the workload, follow my guide I created below.
My experience with riding mowers
I actually started this guide after a good friend from college called me up to tell me he was upgrading his family and moving into a home on a little over an acre of land. His old push mower was not going to cut it anymore (pun intended). He called me up, took me on a FaceTime tour of his lawn, and I gave him my thoughts.
I’d like to walk you through all the pointers I gave him that helped him ultimately pick the best riding mower for his budget and lawn. Let’s get started!
Tips for Buying a Riding Lawn Mower
Like any investment into your home and property, you should take the time to carefully consider a few things before spending money on a riding mower. That way, you can rest assured you’ve made the right decision. Here are the criteria I use when helping someone pick out their first (or last!) riding mower.
Your Yard Size impacts the width of the riding mower
Duh. You don’t get a riding mower if you have a tiny lawn, but understanding your lawn size is important for getting the deck width right. A riding mower with a cutting width of 30 to 42 inches will make quick work of mowing a lawn that’s 1.5 acres or less. For lawns over an 1.5, you’ll want a machine with a cutting width of 54 inches or more or you’ll be mowing for days to get it all done.
It is much more common to see massive deck widths on zero-turn mowers, like the Ariens IKON XD52 or some of the other Husvarna zero-turns. If you are mowing some serious acreage, I recommend going the zero-turn route instead of the traditional riding mower or lawn tractor.
Engine Horsepower should be considered when buying a riding mower
If you’ll be mowing an acre or less, consider a mower with 14 horsepower engine paired with a 42” or less blade width to get the job done fast. Working on a lawn that spans an acre or two? A 16 HP engine is your best bet. An 18 – 24 HP engine is necessary for lots more than a couple acres, or with difficult terrain.
Whichever way you go, you will want to right-size the power output of the mower with the size of your yard. These are super expensive machines and you don’t want to pay for more than you need to. For most folks, anything under 18 HP is going to be more than enough. Traditional gas push mowers are about 3-5 HP for reference.
Landscaping and Obstacles are considerations when buying a riding mower
If you have flower beds, trees, shrubs, hardscape elements, and other obstacles to avoid, you’ll want a rider with a tight turning radius so you can get up close. A zero-turn riding mower will spin on a dime, making your weekly mowing go faster than ever before.
When my friend showed me his yard, one of the first things I did was tell him to take me to his fence gate. Many, many husbands have come home with a $3,000+ riding mower to show their wives, then only sulk in absolute shame when their new mower doesn’t fit through the gate to their backyard. Don’t be one of those guys.
Either get a bigger gate, add a second door, or buy a mower that can fit through the opening. At my house, I have a gate that is too small for any riding mower, but the larger fence portion is totally detachable for me to pull the entire fence open and easily ride into the back yard.
The Brand Matters
When riding lawn mower shopping, quality is definitely in the name. Look for a brand name you know and trust. John Deere, Cub Cadet, Husqvarna,Troy Built, and Toro are just a few we recommend in our list of best riding mower brands. You may pay a little more for a top brand, but the machine will last longer and perform better than a cheaply made one.
I always equate it to paper towels – when you buy cheap ones, you end up using way more than nicer, more absorbent expensive paper towels. Don’t go cheap on your riding mower or else it will end up costing you much more in the long run.
Consider Your Comfort
Back pain and other discomfort can make yard work even tougher, but your new riding mower can help. Look for a rider that offers a high-backed seat, lumbar support, and arm rests for maximum comfort. You’ll feel less fatigued and sore, even if you spend hours on it.
Believe it or not, I have recommended some mowers to folks based on whether or not they had cup holders. It makes a difference when you’re out in the 90+ degree sun for over an hour. Small creature comforts can make a world of difference when buying a riding mower.
Set a Comfortable Budget
The Dave Ramsey in me is crying out to tell you to buy a mower you can afford, with cash, like in the bank right now.
A new riding lawn mower could cost anywhere from $1,800 to upwards of $5,000, depending on the type, size, and features. You don’t have to spend top dollar to get a great mower though. Look for a rider that has the power you need within a comfortable price range for you and you won’t regret it.
Buying a new riding lawn mower is exciting. It will decrease your workload and speed up yard and garden tasks. Just keep the tips we’ve mentioned in mind to ensure you get the right rider for you.
Why we review lawn tools
The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
The three most popular riding mower brands are John Deere, Husqvarna, and Troy-Bilt.
The best riding mowers are ones that are not only powerful and reliable, but comfortable. As summer progresses, you’re going to spend significantly more time mowing and caring for your lawn. A walk-behind mower may not be tough enough to handle the workload, which means more time spent out in the burning sun.
A riding lawn mower is a wise investment, especially if you’ve got a yard that’s an acre or more. Not only will it make mowing faster and less strenuous, it may also allow you to move supplies, tools, and equipment, plow snow, and more. Sounds good?
Before you splurge on a new rider mower, find out which brands are worth the investment and which ones just have good marketing budgets.
Here are my recommendations for best riding mower brands:
When I was a kid and it was my older brother’s turn to mow the lawn, I remember my parents screaming at him for having the speed all the way up to “bunny” when it should have been on “turtle”. The mower was dang fast and my brother took every chance he could to max that thing out.
The new breed is quite different.
And at the risk of sounding old, they don’t make them like they used to. But there are still some great brands out there that make awesome riding mowers. Between zero turns and lawn tractors, you can get a high quality piece of equipment that is still made with serious care. I’ve had the pleasure of using dozens of different mowers and have found consistencies across some that have stuck with me over the years.
There are so many residential riding lawn mowers available that it can be hard to find the right one for a price you can afford. One of the best ways to simplify the process is to do some online research into the mowers you’re interested in. Compare machines with similar horsepower, blade cutting width, and other features important to you. Still not sure which mower to buy? Shop machines from the top riding lawn mower brands that continue to put out reliable, well-made tools.
So, What Are the Top Riding Lawn Mower Brands?
When it’s time to invest in a new riding lawn mower, a sure-fire way to ensure it’s well made is to shop by brand. Although there are a number of brands available, three brands stand out in terms of reliability:
Husqvarna Riding Mowers
When it comes to durability and reliable service, you can’t beat Husqvarna riding lawn mowers. No matter when your property is like, you can rest assured your Husqvarna mower has the horsepower to get the job done. Be prepared, however, these machines are a bit pricey, but worth it.
Husqvarna generally works through local dealers or through their own franchise dealerships, so grabbing these online is darn near impossible unless you grab a used one. I’ve used the YTH18542 and a few of the others. In fact, the Husqvarna YTH18542 is one of the most popular riding mowers ever. Whenever I go on a road trip to the beach and pass through smaller country towns, I am almost guaranteed to see a handful of these being used by folks with big yards.
One thing I love about Husqvarna’s mowers is that they are super reliable and don’t try to overdo it with the technology. They continue to make sleek looking mowers, but focus on bringing in high quality small engines that flat out last.
John Deere Riding Mowers
Since the 1830s, John Deere has been building farm and yard equipment and they’re among the best on the market. Under the familiar John Deere green finish and classic style, your riding lawn mower is a precision-made machine that will last for years.John-Deere is a moderately priced brand for price shoppers.
One thing I love about John Deere is that their mowers are super accessible. You can grab some great riding mowers or other John Deere zero turn mowers at just about any Home Depot. They stopped making my favorite John Deere riding mower, the John Deere E100 – but still make a bunch of great models that are nearly identical.
Another incalculable benefit of a John Deere riding mower is that it is instantly recognizable and will draw the immediate jealousy of your neighbors. This is a very strong power that should be wielded responsibly for only the neighbors you like the least.
Looking for a great deal and a reliable riding lawn mower? Take a look at a Troy-Bilt riding mower. They’re a budget-friendly initial investment, but that’s not all. Troy-Bilt mowers are powerful and reliable. So, you get more done with fewer repairs and less frequent replacements.
My old Troy Bilt push mower!
In fact, one of my good college friends called me a few weeks ago. He just moved into a new house with his growing family and had a much larger yard – about an acre. He is looking for a nice, new riding mower at an affordable price point. My instant reaction was to tell him to look at Troy Bilt, particularly their Pony riding mower.
The Pony has a goofy name, but is a surprisingly well-built riding mower that’s great for larger yards. It is well-sized to save you a ton of time, but still fits through your back gate without any problems (can’t do that with a zero-turn).
Which Riding Lawn Mower Is the Best Buy?
Every lawn is unique and here’s no one-size-fits-all mower. It’s important to ask yourself many questions before buying a new rider mower. Choose the brand that makes you feel most secure and has a great maintenance schedule for riding mowers. Look for features you need based on the size and complexity of your property.
Choose a ride that’s easy on your budget, but be wary of deals that are too good to be true. Talk to a lawn and garden equipment specialist at your local dealership, via telephone, or online for expert help and advice.
Why we review lawn tools
The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
Electric pressure washers are becoming extremely popular – and we know exactly why. Compared to their gas-powered counterparts, electric pressure washers are cheaper, easier to maintain, and do the job well for most homeowners.
But with buying gas powered pressure washers, you know what you are going to get. The specifications make sense, you know how they work, they’re reliable, and are generally more powerful. So how do you figure out what to look for in an electric pressure washer?
Bottom Line: Today, I’ll break down exactly what I look for in an electric pressure washer and highlight some of my favorites that I have personally used and reviewed. My personal favorite is the Greenworks Pro 3000 PSI pressure washer that I have reviewed extensively on my YouTube channel.
I’ve used a ton of electric pressure washers. While I’ve traditionally been a gas guy and used a nice Simpson pressure washer or others with Honda engines, I’ve transitioned to electric. Over the years, I’ve gotten my hands on some of the most popular electric pressure washers. While some have absolutely sucked, others have performance indistinguishable from gas, except much, much better user experience.
I’ve personally reviewed a handful of pressure washers over on my Youtube channel if you don’t believe me!
GPM and PSI on electric pressure washers
PSI stands for pound force per square inch, and represents the force of the water against whatever surface you are washing. GPM stands for gallons per minute, and tells you how much water volume is coming out of the nozzle.
PSI and GPM work hand in hand. Having a high PSI means you have a laser beam of power. The range in GPM tells you how wide the laser beam will be. So high PSI and low GPM means a super small beam. High PSI and high GPM means a big freaking cannon of water.
As you can see, both of these are important in order to achieve the maximum cleaning capacity of your pressure washer. Choose a pressure washer with a high enough PSI and GPM to accomplish your cleaning goals. Usually a PSI between 2000-3000 is perfect for homeowners, whereas anything above that is great for commercial use.
Different nozzle types on electric pressure washers
Most electric pressure washers come with four or five nozzles that all have different uses. Here are some of the common nozzles you might see on your pressure washer:
A 0 degree, or turbo, pressure washer nozzle – this concentrates the spraying force over the smallest area and is the most intense and powerful.
A 15 degree nozzle – this is great for a nice combination of power and a little bit of spraying width. 15 degree nozzles are awesome for concrete or stripping paint off of your deck.
A 25 degree nozzle – this adds a bit more surface area and is awesome for cleaning things at a distance, like second floor windows or other hard to reach places.
A 40 degree nozzle – the widest spray, great for pressure washing a car or other more sensitive areas where you don’t want to risk damaging the surface.
One must have for electric pressure washers is a brushless motor. Brushless motors are an innovation in the electric motor world that produce less friction when running. Less friction means that the motor runs cooler, it lasts longer, is more durable, and more efficient.
Basically, brushless motors are the GOAT in electric pressure washers. Brushed electric motors are more prone to burning out due to the internal friction, especially with the frequent starting and stopping.
One word of caution – many electric pressure washers do NOT have brushless motors. Getting one with a brushless motor is EXTREMELY important. Easily the most valuable thing you can get in a pressure washer.
Typical price range of electric pressure washers
Most good electric pressure washers range about $300-$400. If you are getting a powerful electric pressure washer with a brushless motor and good components, then you get what you pay for.
Of course there are HUNDREDS of cheap electric pressure washers for sale on places like Amazon, but I would stay away from those. Some common complaints I’ve heard are that the connection ports are plastic-y and really cheap. Others just plain stop working or have their motors burn out after about an hour of use. You’ll see a lot of these for sale in the $100-$200 range and frequently on sale.
Let me break down the best ones you SHOULD be looking for.
Best electric pressure washers I’ve used
I’ve had the pleasure of using a ton of electric pressure washers and can give you my recommendation for my absolute favorites. After testing these extensively, it really gave me a solid sense of what features are most desirable in an electric pressure washer. Let’s get started with my top pick.
I knock the Sun Joe in some of my other posts, but mostly because the predecessor to the SPX3500 was the extremely popularSPX3000. But the SPX3500 is named as the best Sun Joe pressure washer for a few reasons.
For starters, it has the things I recommend in all my electric lawn tools: a brushless motor. This was missing from some of the older Sun Joe pressure washers and is a massive step up from the SPX3000. But it is truly like the people at Sun Joe went and read all the negative Amazon reviews that they got on their other pressure washers and immediately implemented the changes into this pressure washer.
This not only includes the brushless motor, but a huge error in the hose connection port that now solidifies the connection with metal instead of cheap plastic. It also includes a much sturdier design that prevents the pressure washer from falling over when the hose gets pulled or the extension cord reaches the end of its slack.
But the best part is that this pressure washer comes in at a crazy good price. Right now it’s on Amazon for super cheap, which is something they kept from their earlier models.
Ryobi 3000 PSI electric pressure washer
Similarly to the Greenworks pressure washer listed above, this Ryobi electric pressure washer is a great option. It has a ton of power, has a sweet brushless motor, and comes with all the bells and whistles. The reason this one is a little lower on the list is two-fold.
First, the price on this pressure washer is a bit higher than the other two. Second, my neighbor owns this pressure washer and it is rotting in his garage right now because one of the O-rings is busted and he hasn’t gotten a replacement.
This is definitely just an anecdote but has concerned me enough to avoid buying one for myself.
The reason we started this website in the first place was because we had so much trouble trying to find reasonable, understandable, honest reviews for lawn equipment. And it’s not cheap! After hours and hours of research, trying products and returning them, and messing up our yards – we started this site.
As people who had to learn the hard way, we want you to know exactly what you are signing up for before you purchase a piece of equipment. That’s why we are committed to providing honest, easy-to-understand reviews that mean something.
Common questions about electric pressure washers
What PSI is good for electric pressure washers?
A good electric pressure washer PSI is in the 2000-2500 PSI range. This is enough pressure to handle most household jobs but still be lightweight and inexpensive.
How good are electric pressure washers?
Electric pressure washers are great for home use, but not great for commercial use.
