Choosing the Right Mower

As consumers, we have been trained to expect different levels of cost and quality from different brands. For several years now the Box Stores have been selling respected brand names like John Deere, Toro and Cub Cadet. Many customers continue to ask if the $1,499 brand-name machines at the Box Store are the same quality they have learned to count on from equipment dealers in the past. 

Lawn equipment at a Box Store can be good equipment for the price. However, don't let the brand fool you. The components used to construct those mowers are of a similar quality to other $1,499 mowers. If someone in a thrift market offers you a $10 Rolex don't expect it to keep the same precise time as a $5,000 Rolex? In this highly efficient business world, you generally get what you pay for.

How DO I choose a lawn mower? (It is NOT just engine horse power and deck size)

If you own a flat, small lot, most any good-brand walk-behind-mower will do. There are features that make the chore easier, such as variable speed self-propulsion (adjusts to your walking speed) or caster wheels (that pivot) for easy maneuvering. Over-head valve (OHV) engines tend to be more efficient and produce less emissions (more green). Prices generally under $500.

>For those of you with one to two acres of groomed lawn, a "lawn tractor", should do the trick. Those with hydrostatic transmissions (one pedal for forward and one for reverse) are the easiest to operate. Twin-cylinder engines run smoother, and stress less in the hotter southern climates. Prices range from $1,500 to $2,500.

If you have lots of trees, consider a "Zero-Radius-Turn" or "Z-Turn" mower. This fun mower can turn around within its own dimensions, spin around trees and hug landscaping. Customers often complete in 2 hours what used to take a whole day. Prices from $2,500 to $4,000+.

Rural residents often have two-to-five acres of smooth-to-rough grass, up-and-down terrain, scrub brush and rocks. This yard Eats Box Store mowers for breakfast. For this you need a "Garden Tractor". A true garden tractor has a heavy-gauge steel deck, stronger axles, and may offer shaft-drive. These mowers can pull trailers and drive small implements. Prices range from $3,000 to $7,000.

The big trend has been toward commercial-grade "Z-turn" mowers. These mowers are fast, have decks from 42" to 72" in width and can mow nearly 4 acres per hour. This is the mower that you may still be happily mowing with 15 yrs. from now. Prices from $4,900 to over $10,000.