How To Use A Push Mower

A well-maintained lawn enhances curb appeal and provides a pleasant outdoor space. A push mower, a staple in lawn care equipment, offers an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to keep your grass neatly trimmed. Understanding how to use a push mower correctly ensures a clean cut, promotes lawn health, and minimizes the risk of injury. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process, from selecting the right mower to mastering mowing techniques, and maintaining your equipment for longevity.

[Image: Person pushing a push mower across a green lawn]

Choosing the Right Push Mower

Types of Push Mowers

Push mowers come in two primary types: reel mowers and rotary mowers. Each has its own advantages and is suited for different lawn types and user preferences.

• Reel Mowers: These mowers use a cylindrical blade that spins vertically, cutting the grass with a scissor-like action. Reel mowers are ideal for short, fine grasses and provide a very clean cut, promoting healthier lawn growth. They are also quieter and require less maintenance than rotary mowers.
• Rotary Mowers: Rotary mowers use a horizontal blade that spins at high speed to cut the grass. They are more versatile than reel mowers and can handle taller, thicker grass. Rotary mowers are generally more powerful and can be used on a wider range of lawn types.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Push Mower

Choosing the right push mower depends on several factors, including lawn size, grass type, terrain, and personal preferences.

1. Lawn Size: For smaller lawns (under 500 square feet), a reel mower or a small rotary mower is sufficient. For larger lawns, a wider rotary mower will save time and effort.
2. Grass Type: Fine grasses like bentgrass and fescue benefit from the clean cut of a reel mower. Coarser grasses like Bermuda and St. Augustine are better suited for rotary mowers.
3. Terrain: If your lawn is flat and even, a reel mower or a standard rotary mower will work well. If your lawn has slopes or uneven areas, consider a self-propelled rotary mower for easier maneuverability.
4. Physical Condition: Push mowers require physical exertion. Consider your physical fitness level when choosing a mower. Self-propelled models can reduce the strain on your body.
5. Budget: Reel mowers are generally less expensive than rotary mowers. However, self-propelled rotary mowers can be a significant investment.

Preparing to Mow

Safety First: Essential Gear

Before how to use a push mower, safety is paramount. Always wear appropriate safety gear to protect yourself from potential hazards.

• Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs reduce the risk of hearing damage from the mower’s noise.
• Closed-Toe Shoes: Sturdy shoes or boots protect your feet from injury.
• Long Pants: Long pants protect your legs from scratches, insect bites, and flying debris.

Pre-Mowing Checklist

A thorough pre-mowing checklist ensures that your mower is in good working condition and that your lawn is ready for mowing.

1. Inspect the Mower: Check the blades for sharpness and damage. Ensure that all nuts and bolts are tightened. For gas-powered mowers, check the oil and fuel levels.
2. Clear the Lawn: Remove any objects from the lawn, such as rocks, branches, toys, and garden hoses. These objects can damage the mower or become projectiles.
3. Check the Weather: Avoid mowing wet grass, as it can clog the mower and increase the risk of slipping.
4. Plan Your Route: Determine the direction in which you will mow and identify any obstacles or areas that require special attention.

Starting the Push Mower

Starting a Reel Mower

Reel mowers are manually powered and do not require starting. Simply position the mower on the lawn and begin pushing forward. The blades will start spinning as the wheels turn.

Starting a Rotary Mower

Rotary mowers are typically powered by gasoline engines. Starting a rotary mower involves a few simple steps:

1. Prime the Engine: Press the primer bulb several times to pump fuel into the carburetor.
2. Engage the Blade Control: Most rotary mowers have a blade control lever or bail that must be held down to start the engine.
3. Pull the Starter Cord: Grasp the starter cord handle and pull it sharply to start the engine. You may need to pull the cord several times, especially if the engine is cold.
4. Adjust the Throttle: Once the engine is running, adjust the throttle to the desired speed.

Mowing Techniques

Optimal Mowing Height

Setting the correct mowing height is crucial for maintaining a healthy lawn. Different grass types have different optimal mowing heights.

Mowing Patterns

Varying your mowing pattern each time you mow prevents the grass from leaning in one direction and promotes even growth. Common mowing patterns include:

• Straight Lines: Mow in straight lines, overlapping each pass by a few inches to avoid scalping the lawn.
• Alternating Directions: Change the direction of your mowing pattern each time you mow. This helps to prevent soil compaction and promotes even growth.
• Circular Pattern: Start at the perimeter of the lawn and mow in a circular pattern, working your way towards the center.

Overlapping and Avoiding Scalping

Overlapping each pass by a few inches ensures that all grass blades are cut and prevents scalping, which occurs when the mower cuts too low and damages the grass.

Maintaining the Push Mower

Cleaning the Mower

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your push mower.

• Remove Grass Clippings: After each use, remove grass clippings from the mower deck and blades. Use a brush or scraper to remove stubborn debris.
• Wash the Mower: Periodically wash the mower with a garden hose to remove dirt and grime. Avoid spraying water directly into the engine.
• Dry the Mower: Allow the mower to dry completely before storing it. This prevents rust and corrosion.

Blade Sharpening and Replacement

Sharp blades are essential for a clean cut and healthy lawn. Dull blades tear the grass, making it more susceptible to disease and pests.

• Sharpening: Sharpen the blades at least once a year, or more often if you notice that the grass is being torn rather than cut. You can sharpen the blades yourself using a file or grinder, or you can take them to a professional sharpening service.
• Replacement: Replace the blades when they are severely damaged or worn.

Oil Changes and Spark Plug Replacement (for Gas Mowers)

For gas-powered mowers, regular oil changes and spark plug replacement are essential for maintaining engine performance.

• Oil Changes: Change the oil every 25 hours of use, or at least once a year. Use the type of oil recommended by the mower manufacturer.
• Spark Plug Replacement: Replace the spark plug every year, or more often if the engine is difficult to start or runs poorly.

Safety Precautions

General Safety Tips

Always follow these general safety tips when using a push mower:

• Read and understand the owner’s manual before operating the mower.
• Keep children and pets away from the mowing area.
• Never operate the mower while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Be aware of your surroundings and watch for obstacles.
• Stop the engine and wait for the blades to stop spinning before making any adjustments or repairs.
• Never leave the mower unattended while it is running.

Avoiding Injuries

Push mowers can cause serious injuries if not used properly. Take these precautions to avoid injuries:

• Keep your hands and feet away from the blades.
• Never reach under the mower while the engine is running.
• Avoid mowing on steep slopes or uneven terrain.
• Use caution when mowing near fences, walls, and other obstacles.
• Wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, and closed-toe shoes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Mower Won’t Start

If your mower won’t start, check these common issues:

• Fuel Supply: Make sure the fuel tank is full and that the fuel is fresh.
• Spark Plug: Check the spark plug for fouling or damage. Clean or replace the spark plug as needed.
• Air Filter: Check the air filter for dirt and debris. Clean or replace the air filter as needed.
• Carburetor: If the engine is still not starting, the carburetor may be clogged. Clean or rebuild the carburetor.

Uneven Cut

If your mower is leaving an uneven cut, check these common issues:

• Blade Sharpness: Dull blades can tear the grass and leave an uneven cut. Sharpen or replace the blades as needed.
• Mowing Height: Make sure the mowing height is set correctly for your grass type.
• Wheel Height: Ensure that all four wheels are set at the same height.
• Bent Blades: Bent blades can cause an uneven cut. Replace the blades if they are bent.

Environmental Considerations

Benefits of Using a Push Mower

Push mowers offer several environmental benefits compared to gas-powered mowers:

• Zero Emissions: Push mowers do not produce any emissions, making them a cleaner and more sustainable option.
• Reduced Noise Pollution: Push mowers are much quieter than gas-powered mowers, reducing noise pollution in your neighborhood.
• Lower Energy Consumption: Push mowers do not require electricity or fuel, reducing energy consumption.

Proper Disposal of Clippings

Proper disposal of grass clippings is important for minimizing environmental impact.

• Composting: Compost grass clippings to create nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
• Mulching: Leave grass clippings on the lawn to decompose and return nutrients to the soil.
• Avoid Landfills: Avoid sending grass clippings to landfills, where they can contribute to methane emissions.

Advanced Techniques and Tips

Striping Your Lawn

Creating stripes in your lawn can enhance its appearance and give it a professional look. To create stripes, mow in straight lines, overlapping each pass by a few inches. After mowing one direction, mow in the opposite direction, slightly overlapping the previous pass. The bending of the grass blades in opposite directions creates the stripes.

Dealing with Slopes

Mowing on slopes can be challenging and dangerous. Follow these tips to mow slopes safely:

• Mow Across the Slope: Mow across the slope rather than up and down to prevent the mower from slipping.
• Use a Self-Propelled Mower: A self-propelled mower can provide better traction and control on slopes.
• Avoid Steep Slopes: If the slope is too steep, consider using a string trimmer or hiring a professional lawn care service.

Key Takeaways

• Choose the right type of push mower (reel or rotary) based on your lawn size, grass type, and terrain.
• Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, and closed-toe shoes.
• Inspect the mower and clear the lawn of any objects before mowing.
• Set the correct mowing height for your grass type to promote healthy growth.
• Vary your mowing pattern each time you mow to prevent the grass from leaning in one direction.
• Clean the mower after each use and sharpen or replace the blades regularly.
• Follow safety precautions to avoid injuries.
• Consider the environmental benefits of using a push mower and dispose of clippings properly.

Conclusion

Mastering how to use a push mower is essential for maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn. By selecting the right mower, following safety precautions, using proper mowing techniques, and performing regular maintenance, you can achieve a perfectly manicured lawn while enjoying the benefits of an eco-friendly and cost-effective lawn care solution. Now that you know how to use a push mower, get out there and make your lawn the envy of the neighborhood!

[See also: Lawn Care Tips for Beginners]