Mowing with a Reel Mower

There is a peaceful simplicity to mowing with a manual reel mower.  Last summer after much consideration and looking around we found a reel mower on sale.  We haven't used it every time we have mowed, in late spring, early summer the grass grows in leaps and bounds and it is hard to keep up with a reel mower.  Reel mowers only cut what gets between the reel and the cutter bar so it is important to cut your lawn regularly and not allow the grass to reach a height of much over 3 - 4 inches in order to insure a proper cut.  We have used it enough to know that it works well and that there are advantages to using a reel mower.

• They slice through the grass with a scissor-like cut which is better for the lawn.  This smooth cut helps grass retain moisture and keeps your lawn healthier.
• They are quiet.
• No pollution!
• Lightweight.
• Good exercise.
• Low maintenance.
• Less expensive.

There are some disadvantages to the reel mower as well:

• Mowing will take a little longer.
• They are not practical for large lawns.
• They won't pick up and bag leaves in the fall.  You will have to rake.
• They don't cut tall grass or weeds very well.

To get the best cut with a manual reel lawnmower:

• Walk at a good, steady pace.
• Overlap your rows.
• Remember that grass has a grain and growing pattern that can vary greatly between varieties.  The direction in which you mow can make a difference in the quality of the cut, experiment to find what works best for your lawn.
• Don't let the grass get too tall.  Grass is often taller than you think, so mow regularly.

Though there is not as much maintenance involved with a reel mower, there is some.  They will need periodic oiling and sharpening, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Anyone else use a manual reel mower?  What do you think of it?