The allure of a perfectly manicured lawn, reminiscent of a classic golf course or a stately English garden, often leads homeowners to consider the venerable reel mower. Known for their scissor-like cutting action, reel mowers promise a cleaner cut and a healthier lawn. However, a common question arises when faced with overgrown, dense turf: can a reel mower actually handle thick grass? The answer, like many things in gardening, is nuanced, depending on a variety of factors including the mower’s design, its condition, the type of grass, and the height of the growth.
Understanding the Reel Mower’s Cutting Mechanism
Before delving into the specifics of thick grass, it’s crucial to understand how a reel mower operates. Unlike rotary mowers that tear through grass with a spinning blade, reel mowers utilize a cylinder of rotating blades that spin against a stationary bedknife. This creates a precise scissor action. When the reel blades pass the bedknife, they nip the grass blades cleanly. This clean cut is vital for lawn health, as it minimizes tearing, which can lead to browning and disease susceptibility.
The effectiveness of this mechanism is directly tied to the sharpness of the blades and the gap between the reel and the bedknife. A properly adjusted and sharp reel mower will create a smooth, even cut. However, when grass becomes too thick or dense, the sheer volume of material can challenge this delicate cutting action.
The Challenges of Thick Grass for Reel Mowers
Thick grass presents several obstacles for a reel mower. Firstly, the density of the grass can create significant resistance against the rotating reel. This resistance can slow down the mower, make it harder to push, and potentially cause the blades to push over the grass rather than cut it.
Secondly, the height of the grass is a major factor. Reel mowers are designed to cut grass at relatively low heights. If the grass has grown excessively tall and dense, the reel may not be able to engage the blade tips effectively. Instead, the thick mat of grass can simply fold over the reel, leading to uncut patches or a very uneven cut.
Finally, the type of grass plays a role. Some grasses, like fescues and ryegrasses, tend to grow more upright and can be handled well by reel mowers. Others, like certain types of bluegrass that spread horizontally and can become very dense, can pose a greater challenge, especially when combined with height.
Can a Reel Mower Cut Thick Grass? The Verdict
So, to directly answer the question, yes, a reel mower can cut thick grass, but with significant caveats. It’s not a simple yes or no answer. The success hinges on several critical factors.
Factors Influencing a Reel Mower’s Performance on Thick Grass
Several variables determine whether your reel mower will triumph over thick turf or struggle. Understanding these will help you manage expectations and optimize your mowing experience.
Mower Quality and Design
The quality of the reel mower itself is paramount. Higher-end, professional-grade reel mowers are built with sturdier construction, more powerful drive systems (even in manual versions, the gearing can be more efficient), and sharper, more durable blades. These mowers are engineered to handle more demanding conditions.
Budget or entry-level reel mowers, while still offering the benefits of a reel cut, may have lighter-duty components that are more prone to bogging down in thick grass. The number of blades on the reel also matters. A mower with more blades (a higher blade count) will typically provide a finer cut and can be more effective in denser grass as it offers more cutting points per revolution.
Blade Sharpness and Adjustment
This is perhaps the most critical factor. A reel mower with dull blades will struggle immensely with even moderately thick grass. Dull blades will tear and bend the grass rather than cutting it cleanly. This can lead to a poor finish and increased stress on the grass.
Regular sharpening is essential for any reel mower, but it becomes absolutely vital when anticipating mowing thick grass. Furthermore, the gap between the reel blades and the bedknife (often referred to as the “kiss” or “contact point”) must be correctly adjusted. Too wide a gap, and the mower won’t cut effectively. Too narrow, and it will create excessive friction and drag.
Grass Type and Condition
As mentioned, the species of grass matters. Some grasses, by their nature, grow thicker and more densely than others. For instance, a well-established patch of Kentucky bluegrass can become incredibly dense, making it a tougher challenge for a reel mower than a stand of fescue.
The condition of the grass is also important. If the grass is healthy and growing vigorously, it will likely be more pliable and easier to cut. However, if the grass is stressed, perhaps due to drought or disease, it can become more brittle and prone to damage, making the cutting process more difficult for a reel mower.
Grass Height and Mowing Frequency
This is where the “thick grass” question often arises. Reel mowers excel at maintaining a lawn when mowed regularly. They are not designed for tackling overgrown jungles. If your grass has grown significantly taller than the mower’s intended cutting height, you will likely encounter problems.
The principle of “scalping” is relevant here. If you try to cut too much grass at once with a reel mower, you risk cutting too low into the crown of the grass, which can severely damage or kill the turf. Reel mowers are best suited for taking off the top portion of the grass blade, usually no more than one-third of the blade’s height in a single pass.
Strategies for Mowing Thick Grass with a Reel Mower
If you find yourself with thick grass and a reel mower, don’t despair. With the right approach, you can still achieve a good result.
Lower the Cutting Height Gradually
The most effective strategy for dealing with overgrown grass with a reel mower is to lower the cutting height incrementally over several mowing sessions. Instead of trying to cut the grass down to your desired height in one go, make the first pass at your mower’s highest setting. Then, over subsequent mowings, gradually lower the cutting height.
This allows the grass to adapt and reduces the stress on both the mower and the turf. It’s a patient approach, but it’s crucial for maintaining lawn health and ensuring the reel mower can do its job effectively without overwhelming itself.
Ensure Blades are Razor Sharp
As previously emphasized, sharp blades are non-negotiable. If you anticipate tackling thick grass, a thorough sharpening and proper adjustment of your reel mower should be your top priority. A dull mower will simply push over thick grass, leaving you with an uneven, damaged lawn.
If your mower is a manual push model, ensure it’s not excessively heavy, as this will compound the difficulty of pushing through dense turf.
Mow When Grass is Dry
Mowing dry grass is generally recommended for all mower types, and it’s particularly important for reel mowers tackling thicker conditions. Wet grass is heavier and more prone to clumping, which can clog the mower and make cutting significantly harder. Dry grass is lighter and offers less resistance.
Consider a Second Pass
If, after your initial pass at a higher setting, the grass is still too thick for your liking or for a lower cut, consider making a second pass. This can help even out the cut and remove any remaining density that the first pass couldn’t handle cleanly.
Break Up the Mowing Session
For exceptionally thick or tall grass, it might be beneficial to break up the mowing into two separate sessions on different days. This reduces the strain on the mower and the grass, allowing both to recover slightly between passes.
When a Reel Mower Might Not Be the Best Choice for Thick Grass
Despite the strategies, there are times when a reel mower simply isn’t the ideal tool for the job, especially when dealing with truly neglected, very tall, and dense grass.
Extremely Tall Grass
If your grass has become waist-high or even knee-high, a reel mower is unlikely to be effective without significant preparation. The sheer volume and weight of the grass would overwhelm the cutting mechanism. In such scenarios, a powerful rotary mower or even a scythe might be necessary for the initial rough cut before transitioning to a reel mower for subsequent maintenance.
Very Dense, Matting Grass
Some grasses, particularly when left to grow unchecked, can form a dense, matted layer. This matting can prevent the reel from reaching the individual grass blades effectively, leading to poor cutting. Again, a rotary mower might be better suited for breaking up this matting initially.
Lack of Maintenance
If your reel mower has not been maintained, meaning dull blades or incorrect adjustments, it will struggle immensely with thick grass. A well-maintained rotary mower with sharp blades might outperform a poorly maintained reel mower in these conditions.
The Benefits of Using a Reel Mower When Possible
Even with the limitations, the advantages of reel mowers for lawn health and aesthetics make them a desirable option for many homeowners.
Healthier Grass Blades
The scissor-like action of a reel mower creates a clean cut, which seals the grass blade quickly. This minimizes moisture loss and reduces the entry points for diseases and pests. Rotary mowers, with their tearing action, can leave shredded tips that are more susceptible to these issues.
Finer and More Even Cut
When properly functioning, reel mowers produce a superior quality of cut. The grass blades are all cut to the same height, resulting in a smoother, more uniform appearance. This is the aesthetic that draws many to reel mowers in the first place.
Environmentally Friendly Option
Manual reel mowers are the ultimate in eco-friendly lawn care. They require no fuel, produce no emissions, and are silent. Even powered reel mowers tend to be more energy-efficient than their rotary counterparts.
Conclusion: Precision Over Power for Thick Grass
In conclusion, a reel mower can cut thick grass, but it requires a thoughtful and patient approach. It’s about understanding the tool’s strengths and limitations. Reel mowers are precision instruments designed for maintaining a healthy, well-manicured lawn. They excel at clean cutting and promoting grass health, but they are not designed for aggressive reclaiming of overgrown areas.
When faced with thick grass, prioritize blade sharpness and proper adjustment. Lower the cutting height gradually over multiple mowing sessions. Mow when the grass is dry, and don’t be afraid to make a second pass or break up your mowing into more than one session. If your grass has become excessively tall or matted, consider using a more powerful mower for the initial rough cut before returning to your reel mower for fine-tuning and ongoing maintenance. By respecting the reel mower’s capabilities and employing the right techniques, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of a healthier, more beautiful lawn, even when it gets a bit unruly.
What is the primary challenge reel mowers face with thick grass?
The main obstacle reel mowers encounter with thick grass is the resistance the blades experience as they attempt to cut through dense, often wet, vegetation. Unlike rotary mowers that use a chopping motion, reel mowers rely on a scissor-like action between the reel blades and the bedknife. When grass is particularly thick and strong, it can bend over and resist this shearing, potentially overwhelming the mower’s cutting mechanism.
This resistance can lead to several issues, including the grass being pushed over rather than cut, resulting in an uneven and ragged appearance. In severe cases, the mower might bog down, requiring significant effort to push, or the blades might slip against the bedknife, leading to dulling and inefficient cutting. Proper adjustment and maintenance are crucial to mitigate these problems.
How does grass height affect a reel mower’s ability to cut thick grass?
The taller the grass, the more substantial the mass and resistance presented to the reel mower. Longer blades of grass have more material for the reel to engage with at any given moment. This increased volume can easily overwhelm the cutting gap and the shearing action, especially if the grass is also dense or has started to mat down, creating an even tougher material to slice through.
Maintaining a lower cutting height is generally beneficial for reel mowers, particularly when dealing with thicker grass. Shorter grass means less material to cut per revolution, reducing the strain on the blades and the operator. Regular mowing, even when the grass isn’t very tall, helps keep the grass in a more manageable state, preventing it from reaching a thickness that challenges the reel mower’s cutting capacity.
What adjustments can be made to a reel mower to improve its performance on thick grass?
A key adjustment is ensuring the reel mower has a tight and accurate cut. This involves properly adjusting the reel to bedknife gap. For thicker grass, a slightly tighter gap might be necessary to ensure the blades engage effectively and create a clean scissor action, preventing grass from bending. Checking the reel’s level and ensuring it’s parallel to the bedknife is also critical.
Additionally, ensuring the reel blades are sharp and properly sharpened is paramount. Dull blades require more force to cut and are more prone to pushing grass over rather than slicing it. A sharp blade will glide through thicker grass more easily, reducing strain and improving the quality of the cut. For very challenging conditions, some reel mowers allow for adjustments to the roller tension or the overall weight distribution, which can help improve traction and cutting power.
What type of grass is best suited for reel mowers, and how does this relate to cutting thick grass?
Reel mowers excel at cutting fine-bladed, upright grasses such as bentgrass, fescues, and certain varieties of ryegrass. These grasses have thinner individual blades that readily yield to the shearing action of the reel. When these grasses grow thick, they generally do so in a manner that is still manageable for a well-maintained reel mower due to their inherent structure.
Conversely, coarse-bladed grasses like Bermuda or St. Augustine, especially when they become thick and inclined to mat, present a significant challenge. Their thicker, tougher blades are more resistant to the shearing force, and their tendency to spread horizontally can create a dense, interwoven mat that is difficult for a reel mower to penetrate and cut cleanly, often leading to pushing rather than cutting.
Are there specific reel mower features that make them better at cutting thick grass?
Some reel mower designs are inherently better equipped to handle thicker grass. Reel mowers with a higher blade count (more blades on the reel) generally offer a finer cut and can handle denser grass more effectively because they make more cuts per revolution, reducing the stress on each individual blade. A wider cutting deck can also be beneficial, as it distributes the cutting load over a larger area.
Another important feature is the quality and robustness of the reel and bedknife construction. High-quality hardened steel blades that can maintain a sharp edge are crucial. Mowers with robust frames and rollers that can handle increased resistance without flexing or losing alignment will also perform better. Some advanced models may even have gearing mechanisms that can adjust the reel speed relative to the ground speed, providing more torque for thicker conditions.
What are the limitations of reel mowers when faced with very thick or wet grass?
The primary limitation is the physics of the cutting action. Very thick grass, especially when wet, creates significant resistance that can overcome the shearing force of the reel blades. Wet grass is heavier and more prone to bending and matting, further compounding the difficulty. This can lead to the grass being pushed over or torn rather than cleanly cut, resulting in an uneven finish and potential damage to the grass.
Furthermore, the operator’s physical effort required to push a reel mower through thick, wet grass can be considerable, making the task impractical or even impossible for some users. The mower can bog down, requiring excessive force, and the risk of damaging the blades or bedknife due to extreme resistance increases. In such scenarios, a rotary mower’s more aggressive cutting action is often a more suitable solution.
How does regular maintenance impact a reel mower’s ability to cut thick grass?
Regular and meticulous maintenance is arguably the most critical factor in a reel mower’s ability to handle thick grass. A sharp reel and bedknife are essential for the scissor-like cutting action required to slice through vegetation efficiently. Dull blades will struggle, push grass, and put undue stress on the mower and the operator, especially when encountering denser patches.
Proper adjustment of the reel to bedknife gap, ensuring the reel is perfectly parallel to the bedknife, and keeping the mower clean are also vital. A well-maintained reel mower operates with less friction and greater precision, allowing it to engage and cut even moderately thick grass with relative ease. Neglecting these maintenance tasks will significantly diminish the mower’s performance, particularly in challenging cutting conditions.