Good questions when:

Purchasing a Lawn Mower

• What are the basic types of lawn mowers?

• Choose between two basic mower types: rotary and reel. Reel mowers cut with spinning blades passing over a fixed blade. Rotary mowers cut with a circulating blade underneath a sturdy housing of metal, plastic or fiberglass. Both types are available in gasoline or electric models.

• When is a manual reel mower a good idea?

• It is always a good idea for the environment! Consider a manual reel mower for a lawn that is 1,000 square feet (100 square m) or less and is a soft-bladed type (not Bermuda or Saint Augustine)--or because you enjoy the exercise.

• Does a power rotary or power reel mower cut better?

• Reel mowers can cut the grass shorter (down to putting green height) and give a nice clean look. Rotary types are generally less expensive, easier to operate and sharpen.

• How do I choose between gas and electric.

• Gas mowers pollute and are noisy. With quieter, electric mowers, find out if the cord length, typically 100 feet (30 m), is long enough for your lawn. For cordless models, check to see how long the battery is good for-- you'll want it to last through one mowing at least.

• Do I want self propelled or a push?

• Choose between push or self-propelled (motor turns wheels, good for slopes) mowers. Front-propelled types are easy to operate. For a very large lawn, hop on board a riding mower that cuts a wider swath, or a lawn tractor.

• What is the difference between a bagging and a mulching mower?

• Select a mulching mower and you won't be left with bags of clippings. It cuts the grass into small pieces, then blows them back down into the lawn, where they turn into fertile compost.

• Is the mower too heavy for me?
• Is it maneuverable enough, especially if I mow around trees?
• How easy is it to start the motor?