Rolling green lawns set off any garden perfectly.
Keeping up with the maintenance can seem like hard work, though.
Fertilizing is also key. You can choose to do this by hand or with a spreader. Whichever method you use, take steps to feed your grass regularly.
How about mowing? Does it have to be such hard work?
Today, we’ll look at some self-propelled lawn mower reviews.
These nifty appliances don’t cost as much as a full-blooded riding mower but they will save you a huge amount of effort.
Before we walk you through top 5 self-propelled lawn mowers, we’ll take a look at what they are and what to look out for when buying one…
A regular gas mower simply generates the power to cut your grass. It does one job and it does it well.
With self-propelled mowers, as the name suggests, the mower will also power itself around your yard. Where a standard mower only powers the blades, these models divide the power between the blades and the wheels.
Rather than a vertical shaft over the blades, with self-propelled mowers there is a drive train and gearbox so each wheel is powered while the remainder affects the blades.
If you struggle with mobility or lifting heavy weights, this is a superb way to take the sting out of garden maintenance. Self-propelled mowers also work well on any uneven lawns or in gardens set on a slope.
These mowers are not for everyone.
It pays to take a look at the good and bad points before launching in. You can then decide whether or not you would benefit from one of these nifty labor-saving appliances or if an alternative would better suit you.
You should now have a decent idea whether or not this type of mower would make a good fit for your needs.
What about the different types of self-propelled mower?
While self-propelled mowers differ in many ways, there are 2 main choices:
Gas-powered self-propelled mowers are heavy and feature-rich.
Most of these mowers come with 4-stroke engines. These deliver enough power for both the blades and wheels. You do come across some 2-cycle engines. These are noisier and less efficient. You will also need to add oil to the fuel.
All gas models come with a clutch and brake.
On the plus side, you’ll get ample power, a mower that’s built to last and with the ability to cut large gardens fuss-free. They also maintain a consistent blade speed.
The principal drawback of gas-powered mowers is the noise coupled with the fumes it gives off. You also be limited by the amount of gasoline you have to hand. You’ll also need much more maintenance. Winterizing it for the first year is sufficient. From that point on, service the drivetrain, gearbox and blades regularly to avoid problems.
The benefits outweigh the disadvantages with gas self-propelled mowers. For this reason, our self-propelled mower reviews focus entirely on this type.
Electric self-propelled mowers are powered either through a cord or by battery. They are quiet and come with either single-speed or variable-speed transmission.
Operating in silence and requiring no fuel, you can cut your grass without disturbing the neighbors. There is almost no upkeep required. You can stash your mower away in a limited space with ease.
Whether it’s the length of the power cord or the run-time of the battery, you will be rather restricted with an electric mower. They are also more expensive than gas alternatives.
Now you have a good overview of these awesome assisted machines, it’s time for our self-propelled mower reviews so you can choose the best mower for your circumstances…
Deck Size (inches)
First up in our look at the best self-propelled mowers is a rugged and affordable 4-stroke from the industry titan Husqvarna.
The 22-inch steel deck boasts 3-in-1 functionality. You can choose to mulch or bag your grass clippings. You can also opt for side discharge. For most reasonable cutting, a single pass is all that’s required.
The capable 4-cycle motor displaces 160cc. There’s no messing around with oil and it fires up immediately thanks to the automatic choke.
Although it’s a hulking beast at 100 pounds, the self-propelled system means you can work for hours without straining yourself. Since it’s rear-wheel drive, it works brilliantly on slopes and inclines. The large wheels cope with uneven terrain admirably.
You can flick the handle through 3 different positions to find one that works best for you.
Height adjustment is where the Husqvarna really scores. There is a single lever rather than the pair featured on many models. This makes life easier. With 9 cutting heights varying from 1 to 4 inches, you’re spoiled for choice.
If you want a durable and affordable self-propelled mower that offers outstanding cutting power with minimum effort, the Husqvarna 961450023 is a smart choice.
Next up in our look at the best self-propelled mowers is a consistent best-seller from Lawn Boy, the 17732.
Although the 144cc engine is not the most powerful on the market, it copes well with most normal gardening duties. Since it’s rear-wheel drive, you’ll have no snags working on a slope or even a steep hill.
You won’t get the same degree of height adjustment as you find on the Husqvarna. Nevertheless, you can tweak the cutting height from 3 ¾ inches right down to a close 1 ¼ inches depending on your needs.
A superb touch with the Lawn Boy is the innovative Tru-Start guarantee. If you can’t get your mower fired up first or second time, you can get it fixed courtesy of the manufacturer without spending a dime.
Whether you roll with side discharge, bagging or mulching, you’ll enjoy a commendable cut quality even if the grass is wet.
For a cost-effective and environmentally sound cutting solution, think long and hard about the Lawn Boy. It’s a rising start in the world of self-propelled mowers. Snap one up before the prices increase!
Honda has a reputation for first-class products in many different industries. From cars to motorbikes and through to lawn mowers, this Japanese multinational rarely disappoints.
While this mower is not cheap, you get a winning combination of performance, longevity and ease of use from a brand you can rely on.
With a solid 22-inch cutting deck, you can mulch, bag or discharge as with most self-propelled mowers. You’ll be able to work on larger areas of grass without needing to make constant return passes. The dual blades deliver an incredibly close cut. Choose from 6 cutting heights to get the job done right every time.
With a patented Start Safety System, you can lessen the chance of any accidental fire-up.
Although gas-powered mowers have a heavier environmental footprint than electric models, the Honda complies with both CARB and EPA so it’s a notch above most of its competitors.
At 84 pounds, this is not the lightest mower on the market but the self-propulsion makes it seem light as a feather.
For a dependable and precise self-propelled lawn mower that punches above its weight, pop the Honda on your shortlist. It might not be cheap but the best things in life seldom are.
As we near the end of our look at these reviews, up steps a superb 21-incher from the highly reputable Snapper.
Powered by a potent 163cc engine, you can work quickly without any drop in cutting quality. You can choose between 6 different heights so you can get precisely the finish you want.
With 8-inch wheels out front and 11-inch wheels behind, you can maneuver over even rough and hilly terrain in complete comfort and safety. At just over 85 pounds, it’s reasonably lightweight for a self-propelled model.
When it comes to washing the deck, a port is included to make this super-simple.
The superb 3-year limited warranty means you can buy without the headache of wondering what happens if things go wrong.
For a powerful and reliable mower that will keep your lawn looking immaculate, test-drive the Snapper today. It might be just what you were hunting for!
Finishing up our reviews is the TB330 from the heavyweight Troy-Bilt.
Powered by an outstanding 163cc Briggs and Stratton engine, you can take advantage of the single lever to mix up the speed. Some users have reported build quality issues with the plastic lever so use a light touch.
As with almost all self-propelled mowers, you have a 3-way choice… You can discharge the clippings out the side, mulch or bag them instead.
Comfort is uppermost with the Troy-Bilt. The wheels are designed to handle questionable terrain. The handle is exceptionally comfortable. Troy-Bilt even has you covered when it comes to washing your deck. There’s an integrated cleaning system so you can keep things looking tip-top.
Weighing in at 80 pounds, although the Troy-Bilt is reasonably lightweight for a self-propelled mower. Guiding the mower around on its high-performance wheels is a breeze.
For a solid and efficient self-propelled mower that’s built to stand the test of time, you could do far worse than the Troy-Bilt TB330. The 2-year limited warranty is the finishing touch.
We trust you found some useful snippets in these self-propelled mower reviews.
Rather than looking at garden maintenance as a chore, try to focus on the relaxing benefits instead. If you invest in the best self-propelled mower, you can take the strain out of cutting the grass without necessarily spending a fortune.
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Contact us any time with any queries or feedback. We are always delighted to hear from our readers.
Proper lawn maintenance requires a great deal of effort and time.
Once things are looking nice and green, you then have to keep on top of the mowing. As if that’s not enough, you then need a weed eater to finish off the edges nicely.
So much work!
How about if you live somewhere with rolling slopes and hills in the area?
We’ll look today at some riding lawn mower for hills reviews.
First, though, we’ll walk you through the options available when you need to cut grass on an incline.
When it comes to mowing on a slope, you have 4 main choices:
If you can manage to cope with the physical demands, a walk-behind mower makes great sense. For those who are less able, you can get some wonderful self-propelled models if you have the budget to spare.
Look for a high quality motor and enjoy a safe, therapeutic way to mow your hilly grass without spending a fortune.
Rear-engine riders make for a relaxing and comfy experience.
These scaled-down riding mowers have smaller decks making them ideal for gardens with lots of obstacles. You can maneuver these mowers around in tight spots fuss-free.
These rear-engine riding mowers work brilliantly on hills.
The deck will pivot along with the front axle giving you a superior cut through turns. Less obstruction means you’ll get a better view while the exhaust fumes are safely expelled behind.
Cutting width is determined by the size of the deck. The larger the deck, the more grass you can cut in a single pass. Smaller decks are wise if you have to think about gates and other tight spaces. The more grass you can cut with your mower, the less you’ll need to trim manually. Get the right size deck for your circumstances.
Hydrostatic transmission gives you a nice gentle ride with no hassle of changing gears. These models are correspondingly more expensive. The other option is a disc drive manual transmission which is probably most common.
On the downside, rear-drive riding mowers are slightly sluggish topping out at just 5mph. Also, you won’t be able to drag any heavy attachments like you would with a tractor.
If you have more garden duty in mind than just mowing, a lawn or garden tractor is the logical solution.
For a multi-purpose workhorse, these powerful units with very capable engines – usually 420cc -750cc – hit the spot.
Although they are not the quickest at 6-7mph, if you want to perform lots of pulling and grunt work alongside regular mowing, tractors are a smart bet.
A lawn tractor is best if you are looking to cut your grass and carry out very light yard duties. These are lighter than garden tractors although still substantial vehicles. They have less horsepower and torque along with smaller tires in back.
For gardens with hills, look for a tractor with locking rear differential. You’ll lose a little speed but gain plenty of traction.
For heavier earthmoving, whether it’s cultivating or tilling, a garden tractor is the most suitable option.
If you need to tow heavier loads or start in with some serious earthmoving, a garden tractor takes some beating.
The minimum size engine for a garden tractor is 24HP. With beefed-up back tires, you’ll get more ground clearance and stability.
With welded steel frames, super-strong axles and potent engines, garden tractors might not be cheap but they certainly represent great overall value.
The final option when it comes to riding mowers is a zero-turn mower (ZTR).
While these are certainly not cheap, they are generally used for commercial projects or for houses with several acres of garden so think of it as an investment.
The innovative steering system means you can turn on a dime with these variants.
There is a whole range of ZTRs from entry-level and mid-grade on through commercial machines for the very heaviest work.
While a ZTR certainly means business, this is absolutely not the best approach if you have a hilly garden to mow. Having an accident with one of these beasts rolling over could result in serious injury or death. ZTRs are awesome pieces of equipment but save them for flatter terrain.
Now you have a solid grasp of the different options at your disposal, it’s time to check out some riding lawn mower for hills reviews.
If you take the time to think carefully about exactly how you will use your mower and what you expect from it, getting the best riding lawn mower for hills is really not rocket science.
Engine Power(HP or cc)
First up in our riding lawn mower for hills reviews is a powerful but compact model from the legendary Troy-Bilt.
The 382ccc engine offers you all the power you need if you are mowing on hills. The Powermore OHV plant is rugged and built to last. You’ll fit 1.3 gallons in the fuel tank. There’s a handy sight window so you can easily see when you need some gas.
While larger cutting decks have their place, the 30-inch Troy-Bilt is much easier to store away and allows you much more mobility than you’d get with a larger mower. The turning circle is impressive at 18 inches. It’s not quite zero-turn but it’s getting there!
Engaging the blades is a breeze. You’ll be able to choose from 5 settings for the cutting height allowing you great freedom when you’re cutting.
The wheels perform best on level terrain. If your garden is rather uneven, think about a different mower. It always pays to think about what your requirements are so you can get the most suitable option for what you have in mind.
Troy-Bilt offer a comprehensive 2-year limited warranty. Riding mowers are not cheap and a sound guarantee gives you the peace of mind you need when making a substantial purchase.
Next up in our lawn mower for hills reviews is an innovative and multi-tasking vehicle from Raven.
You’ll get more than just a lawn mower with this hybrid. It’s an MPV, mower and generator in one devastating package.
The gas-fuelled motor displaces 420cc. As well as powering the mower, it also juices up the on-board generator. This powers up both the blades and the outlets. It also charges up the batteries.
There’s an extremely tight 14-inch turning circle so if you have a smaller garden or need to get in and out through gates or around obstacles, the Raven is tailor-made.
The 46-inch deck means you can cut through wide swathes of grass in next to no time. Usually, larger and bulkier mowers lose out on maneuverability but the Raven gives you the best of both worlds: power in a nimble unit.
Riding the Raven is fun while the front shocks and suspension help to dampen it down for you. You’ll make light work of any hills and you can tow up to 550 pounds so you’re all set for even heavy chores.
If you want an entertaining and adaptable vehicle offering far more than just mowing, take a good hard look at this Raven MPV. It’s a great deal of bang for your buck and it cuts the grass beautifully too!
Another contender for the best riding mower for hills is this automatic from the well-respected Poulan Pro.
The 42-inch deck allows you to make great progress when you’re mowing without losing out on maneuverability. You have 6 cutting heights to choose from so you can get the very best from your mower.
The Briggs and Stratton engine common in riding mowers kicks out almost 16HP and lets you move up hills without a hitch. The air filter is very easy to clean and maintain.
With an oscillating deck, you can get a crisp, even cut whatever the ground is like underfoot.
The driving experience is straightforward. With an automatic hydrostatic transmission, you’ve got no clutch or gears to worry about. Just hop on and hit the lever to move forwards.
If you are not so practical, you can opt in for the expert assembly option. Your Poulan Pro would ordinarily be delivered in pieces. It takes around 3 hours for a skilled professional to get things up and running. Be realistic about your abilities and take this option if you need it.
For a formidable riding lawn mower that won’t let you down on a slope, give some serious thought to the Poulan Pro.
Husqvarna have a hard-won reputation for producing first-class appliances of all natures. Their yard tractor is no exception in this tradition of excellence.
Although this yard tractor has a generous 48-inch cutting deck, it’s still relatively compact so you can zip around in confined areas without too much problem.
With a 24HP Briggs and Stratton engine equipped with cruise control, riding the mower is much more fun than using a hand mower. The hydrostatic automatic transmission takes all the sting out of driving and you can travel forwards or in reverse.
You engage the blades electronically so there’s no messing around.
If you want to tow anything behind this tractor, there are plenty of accessories to enable this. There’s also a useful mulching kit available.
For a reliable and adaptable riding mower for hills, pop the Husqvarna on your shortlist. This tractor delivers admirably and will last for years and years.
Finishing up our hunt for the best riding lawn mower for hills, here’s a neat 42-incher from Yard Machines.
It weighs in at just under 500 pounds and has a generous cutting path but this mower is not too awkward to move around either. It’s a real win-win with the Yard Machines 420cc.
There’s a 7-speed gearshift meaning you can cope with all your cutting needs and maximize performance.
The mower arrives practically assembled so it won’t take much effort to get it running straight out the box.
With a comfy seat, you can work for extended periods without straining yourself.
You’ll get a 2-year limited warranty so you can buy this mower without worrying about any problems down the line.
How did you find these riding lawn mower for hills reviews?
Drop us a line if you have any questions or if there is anything that you would like us to cover here at IGardenPlanting. We are always delighted to hear from our readers and more than happy to help.
Now take care on those hills!
One of the drawbacks of having a large garden is what seems like endless maintenance.
A lawn is perhaps the most labor-intensive and demanding part of the yard. From making sure the grass is properly fertilized and watered through to mowing it regularly, keeping on top of the lawn is hard work.
Today, we’ll look at some weed barrier reviews to help you in the constant fight against these menacing garden invaders.
If you want your vegetables to retain all their nutrients and your flowers to look their best, the best weed barrier is a smart investment. They are not expensive and will minimize the time you need to spend manually pulling weeds.
If you want to avoid using chemical weed killers, a weed barrier is a worthwhile alternative. Not everyone wants potentially dangerous chemicals leeching into their soil.
The purpose of a weed barrier is to prevent sun, air and water from reaching and nourishing the weeds. You can kill off their life source without needing to resort to chemicals.
Weed barriers generally come as lengthy rolls of fabric. Whether you choose to buy your material at the garden center or online, it needn’t cost the earth to keep those pesky weeds at bay.
Look out for dark material which better blocks the sunlight while at the same time darkens your soil. Most barriers are made from a synthetic geotextile. Some are laminated with polyethylene. Mesh allows the air and water your plants need to seep through without benefiting the weeds.
Plastic barriers are highly effective. By warming up the soil, the plants will be encouraged to grow while the weeds are efficiently strangled. UV-resistant plastic is available at a premium.
Most weed barriers will last for a year, perhaps even longer if you’re lucky and there’s not too much traffic on the lawn that might split the barrier.
Before spending your hard earned money on this equipment, take a look at a handful of reasons why it makes sense…
Although they are extremely simple products, there are a handful of things to be aware of when you are looking for the best weed barrier…
Choosing to use a weed barrier rather than weed killer is half the battle won when it comes to considering the environment.
The last thing you want is to select a harmful weed barrier so make certain you buy carefully. It’s the resilient weeds you want to kill not your plants and vegetables so make sure the fabric is suitable. Any old roll of black plastic is not good enough.
The best weed barrier should be easy to install. You don’t want to be forced to call in a contractor and face added expense.
With many barriers, all you need is a pair of scissors and some patience. Don’t get this wrong and go for something that’s a grind to set up.
Whether or not you have plants under the barrier, protecting the soil is still crucial. You want the air and water it needs to get through. This is why the fabric on the weed barrier is breathable.
The whole object is the complete destruction of weeds with no damage done to the rest of your garden.
If you are taking the time, trouble and money to get yourself a weed barrier, you don’t need a cheap piece of junk you’ll need to replace every other month.
Look for a barrier that receives positive reviews and is built to last the distance.
Every buying decision involves price. You should think not only of the bottom line but of value for money in overall terms.
A cheap barrier that falls apart and needs replacing after a matter of weeks is false economy.
Buy the best weed barrier you can afford without compromising your budget.
Now it’s time to move on to our weed barrier reviews. If you take a little time and trouble, getting the best barrier is really not so difficult.
3 x 150
4 x 50
3 x 50
6 x 300
3 x 300
If you check out any list of the best weed barriers, this offering from Scotts is always at or near the top.
When it comes to lawncare and gardening supplies, it pays to buy into a brand you trust. Scotts are a true industry heavyweight so you know you’ll be getting top quality at an affordable price.
You can buy this barrier in a number of configurations. The one we are reviewing gives you 3 x 150 feet of fabric so represents outstanding value.
This fabric from Scotts is incredibly durable. It’s 1.5 ounces in weight and has a feeling more of cloth than plastic.
Installation could not be easier. There’s no need to call in the professionals or break your back, just lie down your fabric and start kissing goodbye to the nuisance of weeds.
This barrier also works well on any patios, walkways or retaining walls so it’s truly multi-purpose.
The one thing to be aware of with this weed barrier is that it doesn’t quite let enough water through.
For a no-nonsense and affordable weed barrier that will not let you down, Scotts 25-Year Pro is a best-seller with good reason.
DeWitt have a deserved reputation for producing first-class products at very reasonable prices. This weed barrier is no exception.
This rugged fabric is rated to last 12 years. Much like Scotts 25-year material, it makes sense to focus on barriers that will last the distance.
Much more durable and heavier than much of the opposition, this makes perfect sense if you want to put down any mulch or gravel.
In terms of the fabric, this actually beats the Scotts barrier. It’s not woven and will allow all the moisture and air your plants need to pass through while suffocating the weeds. It is dense enough to prevent too much light getting through which in turn helps to kill weeds off.
This barrier is a cinch to install. The design stops the fabric from continually rolling up. It’s super-simple to cut and measures 4 x 50 feet.
If you want a really hard-hitting weed barrier without needing a bank loan, pop this great DeWitt barrier on your shortlist. It will deliver in fine style.
Another strong contender for the best weed barrier is this superb fabric from Easy Gardener.
If you are on the hunt for a cost-effective and capable barrier for the price of a couple of beers, this landscape fabric hits the spot.
The rolls are fairly light so unraveling them and installing the barrier is a piece of cake. Since it is a bare 3 feet wide, you’ll probably need some degree of overlapping if you want to treat a larger garden.
Although it feels lightweight, the fabric is surprisingly thick. It will not get ripped by stones and the right amount of water and air will make it through to the soil.
For dealing with smaller gardens or lining plant containers, this excellent barrier makes a smart budget choice if you want to see off the weeds while revitalizing your flowers and vegetables.
For anyone looking for the very best weed barrier money can buy, this awesome geotextile fabric from Mutual Industries is a must-see.
The roll is a generous 300 feet long and 6 feet wide. It’s not cheap but considering the amount of fabric you get and the quality, it’s actually not bad value at all.
Made from durable woven polyethylene, you can hold the soil in place nicely. These geotextile fabrics are also a wonderful alternative to using aggregate or sand as filters.
You can get up and running in no time with this barrier. Simply trim to fit and you’re good to go. Plain scissors will be fine. There is very little fraying which is reassuring.
As with all the best weed barriers, the mix is just right so that your soil gets all the nutrients it needs while the weeds are properly stifled.
If you have a little spare cash and you don’t mind spending out on a first-rate solution for getting rid of weeds, don’t overlook Mutual Industries.
Rounding out our weed barrier reviews is another offering from the ever-reliable DeWitt, the SBLT3300 ground cover.
For a cheap alternative to harmful herbicides, this weed barrier will not disappoint.
The air and water you need can permeate the fabric and it’s treated to be UV-resistant into the bargain.
Rated for 5 years assuming it’s in direct sunlight, you won’t need to worry about continually replacing the barrier.
Made from woven polypropylene, it’s dark enough to starve the weeds of sun without hurting your plants.
Note that when you cut the ends, it tends to fray and unravel slightly. One way to combat this is to use a lighter to singe the tattered ends.
For a heavy-duty weed barrier that will not let you down, this 3 x 300 feet roll from DeWitt might come last on our list but it punches above its weight.
We trust you’ve found our weed barrier reviews helpful in your quest for a beautifully manicured lawn.
While keeping weeds away can be tiresome, getting the best weed barrier certainly makes life easier.
Feel free to reach out with any queries or feedback. You are always welcome to share our articles on your social media.
Now banish those weeds!
There’s little argument that a rich landscaped lawn sets off a garden perfectly.
Like with many elements of gardening, you’ll find a mixture of relaxation and hard graft.
Getting the right tools will make your life much easier. A good fertilizer spreader and a lawn sprinkler mean you can feed and water your grass without breaking a sweat.
How about keeping it nicely maintained?
We’ll look today at 5 garden tractor reviews to help you get the right machine for the job.
For anyone with a large lawn, a ride-on mower is often the most sensible and efficient option. They are not cheap but they are built to last and represent a great investment over time.
First of all, let’s clear up the difference between lawn mowers, lawn tractors and garden tractors…
There’s a lot of confusion with the terminology used for ride-on garden vehicles.
If you have a large, sprawling garden, a push-style mower is not the wisest choice.
A riding lawn mower is built for one task only: cutting the grass. That’s it. These mowers have the part where the grass is ejected set quite far forward.
A lawn tractor sits somewhere between the riding mower and garden tractor. You’ll be able to cut your grass just like with a mower. There is also a hitch so you can hook up a bagger or pull around a cart. For general light lawn duties, a tractor makes a smart choice.
We’ll explore today the garden tractors. These are the most flexible and adaptable. You can mow grass with ease but it has much more functionality besides this. You’ll get a rear hitch just like with a lawn tractor so you can attach things behind.
A garden tractor can also cope with heavier duty even on rough terrain. They have larger wheels with better clearance for working on soil. The transmission will be built to carry heavier gardening equipment like a plow without needing an ATV. The garden tractors come with traction control. This helps considerably on steep inclines.
As a general guideline, if you have more than 1 acre of land, a riding machine of some description is advisable.
Be honest about whether you’ll just be mowing the grass or if you plan to undertake other yard work.
For cutting only, a riding mower is absolutely fine.
Anyone who wants to cut the grass and perform simple hauling tasks should think about a lawn tractor.
If you need to step things up a gear, a lawn tractor or garden tractor is worth considering. Sure, they are more expensive but they are huge labor-saving devices. Imagine needing to turn over a huge vegetable patch by hand or trying to keep on top of your horse enclosure manually. Think how much easier it would be with the best garden tractor.
There’s no right or wrong choice here, simply the most suitable piece of equipment for your circumstances.
As with any gardening equipment, there are a number of things to watch out for when you are on the trail of the garden tractor.
Once you are familiar with the different options at your disposal, read through our reviews. Each of the 5 tractors we review comes highly recommended.
Read plenty of user reviews. Most people are fairly honest with feedback when they have already spent good money on a product.
Chat with your neighbors and see what type of equipment they find works best. Be sure to ask how the tractor copes with hills if you live on an incline. Enquire about reliability and how the vehicle contends with heavy soil. Ask any questions you feel pertinent to your situation.
Take a look at all obstacles in your yard.
From trees through to hardscaping features like BBQs or fountains, take into account how you’ll move around with your tractor.
If you feel you’ll need to make plenty of tight turns, a zero-turn tractor is one solution. They are more expensive and slightly tricky to master but they can turn on a dime and it could be money and time very well spent in the long haul. What could be worse than spending out on a vehicle that is inappropriate for your garden?
The leading advantage of a zero-turn tractor is that you can make a single pass flush to obstacles without needing to return with your weed eater.
The horsepower of the motor does not necessarily translate to better cutting power. It can help with other tasks on the ground, though.
Checking out user reviews is a great way to get a feel for the performance of a tractor. It should cut evenly without any unsightly ridges.
Automatic tractors are generally simpler to operate than those with manual transmission. They are pricier but the ride will be smoother and riding it much less complicated for beginners.
Tractors with very large decks do not cut as evenly. Also, with more blades there is more to maintain and repair.
Look for a seat that has a high back and will be comfy enough to sit in for extended periods. The steering wheel should also be comfortable and the foot pads non-slip.
Overall, pay attention to what elements of the garden tractor’s performance are most critical for your needs and buy accordingly.
Garden tractors have 3 main modes:
Any garden tractor with mulching or bagging functionality is likely to cost a little more. If you don’t really need this, roll with a side discharge model.
You can get a range of attachments to hitch up to your garden tractor.
There are also some inbuilt accessories to watch out for.
You can activate your blades either manually with a lever or with an electric power takeoff system. The PTO costs more but will help your mower last longer.
Some tractors come with a port so you can hook it up to your garden hose. This is particularly useful if you plan to do a lot of mulching. The last thing you want is clumps of grass building up on the undercarriage.
Now you have a good idea about what you should be looking for in the best ride-on vehicle, it’s time for our reviews…
We’ll look at a range of different types so there is something for everyone.
Deck Size (inches)
First up in our look at the garden tractors is a simple but effective lawn tractor from the industry heavyweight Husqvarna.
With a 42-inch deck and an automatic transmission, the Husqvarna runs smoothly and cuts your grass evenly.
Patented Air Induction Technology means that airflow within the decks is eased and this helps keep things running like a dream.
You’ll need to engage the blades with a spring-loaded lever. Don’t worry, this is very easy to operate.
You can connect your hose to the port making cleaning a breeze.
The Husqvarna discharges clippings from the side. Mulching is nice and steady. When it comes to bagging, the capacity is generous.
Turning in tight spots is no problem. It’s not quite a zero-turn but it’s a compact and maneuverable unit.
There’s a 3-year limited warranty on the Husqvarna. The frame, chassis and front axle are guaranteed separately for 5 years so buy with complete confidence.
Next up in our reviews is a lawn tractor from the highly respected Troy-Bilt.
This 7-speed automatic is a cinch to drive. The 420cc engine offers ample performance.
The steel step-thru frame is rugged and built to last. The 42-inch deck gives you the ideal combination of performance and compactness.
You can adjust the deck height through 5 different positions so it’s a very flexible cutting solution.
With little 15 x 6 inch wheels on the front and bulkier 20 x 8 inches behind, you can zip around with ease even on uneven terrain.
There’s a deck wash system built in so you can keep things sparkling clean and your tractor will last for years.
With a comfy seat and a sizeable fuel tank, you’ll be able to work for hours without straining yourself.
You’ll get a 2-year warranty so you can buy without worrying about something going wrong.
For an affordable and adaptable tractor that won’t let you down, pop the Troy-Bilt on your shortlist.
Next on our list of the garden tractors is another offering from Husqvarna, this time the much beefier LGT2654.
Husqvarna are one of the manufacturers offering light garden tractors, a scaled down version of a full-bore garden tractor allowing you to enjoy most of the capabilities without the price tag.
Although this tractor receives mixed feedback, it always appears on any list of reviews and has a number of real strengths.
The 54-inch cutting width lets you work large areas in double-quick time. The 26HP Kohler engine offers great performance, even extending to cruise control.
There’s no need to reach for a lever when you want to engage the blades. It’s taken care of electronically.
This is a very heavy item coming in at over 500 pounds. If you want a no-nonsense workhorse to take care of a range of gardening projects, think seriously about the LGT2654. It will deliver in fine style.
You’ll get a clean and consistent cut every time with this Husqvarna. You can adjust the cutting height as you see fit.
There’s a full range of towing accessories and mulching kit at your disposal.
For a powerful and capable garden tractor that won’t break the bank, road test the LGT2654 and see if it fits the bill.
As we near the end of our reviews, yet another great model from Husqvarna, the YTA24V48.
The pedal-controlled automatic mower demands less power to operate while kicking out enhanced cutting performance.
The 48-inch cutting deck is made from reinforced steel so it will not let you down.
The operating manual is clear and easy to follow. It’s worth your while getting fully familiar with your tractor before launching into work.
One thing to note: the tires are overinflated for shipping. Let them down slightly for best results.
For a heavy-duty mid-size tractor that will keep going for years, the Husqvarna YTA24V48 is hard to beat. You’ll be covered with the usual, impressive Husqvarna warranty.
Rounding out our reviews is another, larger Troy-Bilt.
If you want to inject some fun into your yard work, the 26HP engine is a real pleasure. Use your foot for the transmission and enjoy cruise control if you are working on large expanses of lawn.
The 54-inch deck is extremely large and features a nifty deck wash system so you can keep everything running smoothly.
The seat and armrests are padded so you can relax as you mow your lawn.
The deck is engaged automatically and there’s even a Mow In Reverse feature for complete flexibility.
This garden tractor is not cheap but it will last the distance and give you first-class cutting results. You’ll get a 3-year limited warranty with this tractor.
We hope you have enjoyed these reviews.
If you take your time and do plenty of research, getting the best garden tractor is really pretty straightforward. Think about what type will suit your needs best and choose in line with these requirements.
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to get in touch. We always respond promptly and we’re delighted to help in any way we can.
Taking care of your garden is an ongoing mission.
Next week, we’ll give you a complete guide to lawn care. We’ll walk you through everything from planting the seed and fertilizing through cutting the grass and making sure it is properly watered.
Today, we’re going to look at 5 lawn mower blade reviews so that you can keep your equipment tip-top and enjoy a lush, green lawn.
If you want your lawn to look its best, you’ll need to keep the blades on your mower sharp and ready for action.
As a rule of thumb, blades should be attended to once every 2 months during the course of the growing season.
You should replace your blade if you spot any signs of dents or bends in it. Using a damaged blade is reckless. It can endanger you and harm your lawn. Swap it out if you notice any imperfections.
After you have mowed your lawn, ask yourself what the experience was like.
If you are struggling, it’s time to change the blade.
To mow with maximum efficiency, you need to make sure the blades are in tip-top shape.
For an overview on sharpening your lawn mower blades, check out this great video.
You’ll need to grab some basic equipment:
Once you have removed your blade, inspect it. If there’s any visible damage, replace it.
Put an edge on a dull blade with a file or grinder. Take care of sharpening one side at a time. Work slowly and systematically.
Check with the balancer and see how it feels. You might need to file the heavier side a little more if it’s not balanced.
Mount your blade and road test it.
The alternative to the DIY route is to take your blade to the shop but this is not cost-effective.
Changing lawn mower blades is not difficult but you need to take some basic precautions and make sure you know what you’re doing.
First thing’s first, get yourself some good protective gloves so you can work safely.
Follow some basic pointers and you can’t go far wrong.
What happens if you’ve used a dull blade unwittingly and savaged your lawn?
The immediate priority is simply to wait a couple of weeks. Allow it to normalize.
Make sure you’re not scalping the grass by cutting too close. There’s a big variation between grasses. While a Bermuda can be cut at most to 1.5 inches, you should leave Augustine up to 4 inches in height. Pay attention to the type of grass you have.
Think about your watering regime. Your grass needs enough moisture but not too much.
Timing is also worth considering. You should not water when it’s hot and sunny. Watering is best taken care of in the morning. If you are using a lawn sprinkler, set the timer for early morning. If you water using a hose, make sure it gets done as you first order of business.
Now you should have a decent overview of the importance of changing your blades and how to take care of the job fuss-free.
Check out now our glance at top 5 lawn mower blades on the market:
We hope you have found our lawn mower blade reviews useful and informative.
If you’re looking for the lawn mower blade, following the above guidance should make it a stress-free experience.
As always, feel free to contact us with any queries or feedback. We’re always ready to help in any way we can.
Lawncare takes on many different forms.
When you are starting out, you’ll need to keep the birds away from your grass seed.
Once your seed has germinated and the lawn comes through bright and green, you need to make sure you water the grass thoroughly and regularly.
With your lawn flourishing, mowing it and finishing it off with a weed eater – also know as a string trimmer – will give your garden a professional edge.
Today, we’ll look at the best string trimmer head you can get for your edging tools.
As well as making sure you have enough trimmer line, you’ll also possibly need a replacement head. The head is vulnerable. It slices through weeds and foliage and can also come into contact with other garden debris so replacing it might be necessary at any stage.
Luckily, a good string trimmer heads are not expensive.
What should you watch out for when buying one?
There are 3 main types of string trimmer head:
A fixed head system is also called a line system.
With this type of trimmer head, you thread in individual pieces of line as required.
The advantage of this method is that you can eliminate some of the niggle of winding spools of line onto your trimmer head. It takes the sting out of the whole procedure.
If you have a commercial weed eater or a larger trimmer that calls for thick line, fixed heads are commonplace. With thicker line, you’ll get less breakage. This reduces the frequency with which you’ll need to feed in more line.
On the downside, you need to grind to a halt every time you have to add new line with a fixed head.
Many string trimmers now come with automatic feed on the head.
A nifty line spooling motor means there’s no effort required on your part. The trimmer does not need to be stopped so there’s no interruption to your work.
With automatic feed systems, you can focus on your cutting without needing to worry about the line.
The motor is a moving part so you might encounter problems at some stage. Unfortunately, if this motor starts playing up, it’s often most cost-effective to replace the strimmer itself.
With a bump feed head, you wind lengths of line around the string trimmer’s spool. 2 lengths are fed through openings in the head.
Gently tapping your trimmer on the ground as you cut activates this system.
Bump feed strimmers are extremely easy to use and highly reliable. They are probably the single most popular type.
Although you have superior control, the continued bumping of the head on the ground can lead to premature damage and replacement.
The weather conditions affect strimming quite strongly. If it’s raining or your grass is still wet, leave the trimmer aside for another day.
Not only is working in the wet potentially dangerous, the strimmer will not operate at full capacity and it can damage it leading to the need for a replacement.
Clear your working area of anything that might be flicked up by the trimmer. The last thing you want is metal objects or wire flying. Your weed eater can hurl debris up to 50 feet with ease so it really does pay to prepare properly.
When you are working around lots of debris that could easily fly in your direction, dressing appropriately for trimming is essential.
Ditch the shorts and T-shirt in favor of long sleeves and pants. Safety boots are ideal but closed shoes should be the minimum.
Safety goggles or glasses, a face mask and ear defenders are all worth considering.
You need to set the power so it’s just enough to cut through the grass or weeds you are working on.
Running your string trimmer too quickly simply uses up excessive amounts of line while kicking off more noise and vibration.
Some string trimmers come equipped with a harness. With others, you have adjustable handles.
Check the instruction manual and become acquainted with the height adjustment so you can work safely and comfortably.
Getting the line right is critical. If you use the wrong thickness, it won’t feed through properly.
Round line will last longest while shaped line has more cutting power but tends to break more frequently.
If you need to tap your trimmer to play out some more line, do this on grass rather than concrete.
A single tap should give you 2 inches of line.
Go careful or you risk damaging the head prematurely.
Dealing with long grass and weeds demands a little patience.
Start from the top and work downward rather than trying to hack everything off with a single stroke.
Working from right to left with your trimmer usually produces the best cutting results. This is because the heads of trimmers usually rotate counterclockwise.
You can check with your manual or observe the trimmer at very low speed to get this right.
If you plan to deal with heavier bush or very stubborn weeds, swap out the string for a blade.
When you are using a blade for heavy-duty projects, use full throttle and keep the blade ultra-sharp.
After using your string trimmer, it’s a must to rinse it down then brush off any lingering grass and debris.
If you need to conduct any repairs, switch the engine off and disconnect the spark plugs.
You shouldn’t need much by the way of maintenance so keep things clean and store the string trimmer carefully. In return, it should reward you with years of service.
Now you have an idea about what to look for in a good string trimmer head, it’s time for our trimmer head reviews.
Kicking off our reviews is a flexible and durable option from MaxPower.
As with most trimmer heads, this will fit well with pretty much any trimmer on the market. Be certain to check for compatibility before purchase.
Using all-purpose 0.095-inch diameter line, you can take care of most regular gardening duties with this head.
The design limits breakage so you can work for longer without needing to down tools.
Installation is super-simple so if your head has become damaged, order up this replacement and get straight back to work.
For a versatile and durable trimmer head that will fit almost all commercial brands of gas weed eaters, Grass Gator’s 8010 is well worth checking out.
The 0.130-inch line works well on grass and weeds.
Bump feed trimmer heads can be awkward. With the 8010, you simply feed in pre-cut lengths of line where it will lock into position automatically. This is a hassle-free delivery system.
You can set up this head quickly, easily and without needing tools.
If you are looking for a no-nonsense trimmer head that takes the sting out of feeding in line, look no further than Grass Gator.
With the Echo Speed-Feed trimmer head, all of the grief is removed from reloading your weed eater.
The Speed-Feed is rather more limited. It fits curved shaft Echo, Husqvarna and Homelite string trimmers. It will not work with straight shaft trimmers. An adapter is included to increase the range of compatible models.
As far as bump feeds go, the Echo is a breeze. You can reload using 3 simple steps in as little as 30 seconds. Just tap as you advance and you’re good to go.
The Echo will accept up to 20 feet of line anywhere from 0.080 to 0.095 inches in diameter.
If you are happy using a bump feed trimmer head and you have a suitable weed eater to mesh with the Echo Speed-Feed head, this makes a smart choice.
Next up in our look at the string trimmer heads is the WW EZ Lock Head from Weed Warrior.
This pre-cut system allows for super-swift line loads. You can use a variety of line from 0.080 inches through to thicker 0.095-inch line.
The EZ Lock Head will fit most strimmers, whether straight or curved shaft.
Using 4 lines to cut, you should be able to work your way through most light to medium cutting projects without straining yourself.
If you dislike using the long spools that come with some trimmer heads, this basic but effective head offers a combination of power and durability without breaking the bank.
Rounding out our reviews is another pre-cut system, the Rino Tuff Pivotrim.
The universal fit means that this head will fit nicely onto the vast majority of standard weed eaters.
For general gardening duties, cutting and weeding, the Pivotrim works wonders.
Installation couldn’t be easier and you’ll get 6 line strips cut down to length.
The product name comes from a handy inbuilt feature. The line will pivot to lessen the chance of breakage when you are cutting against hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
You can use 0.095-inch line with the Pivotrim. You can easily cut this down to size yourself.
For a solid and dependable strimmer head that’s a cinch to use and also very affordable, pop the Pivotrim on your shortlist.
Taking care of your garden is an ongoing effort if you want to see the best results from your lawn and plants.
Lawncare takes on many forms. Whether it’s investing in a fertilizer spreader or hosepipe to give your lawn the nourishment it needs or plenty of the best fertilizer for your grass, there seems no end to the tools you can buy to make your life easier.
Properly mowing the lawn is really just the start. If you want a really professional finish, you need a weed eater or string trimmer to take care of the edging.
We’ll look today at 5 best trimmer line reviews. Whether you use a string trimmer or brush cutter to deal with these finishing tasks, you’re sure to need some new line. With our handing buying guide, you can arm yourself with the knowledge you need to get the trimmer line for your circumstances.
So, first thing’s first…
What should you be thinking about when you need to replace your trimmer line?
While the build quality of your weed eater is crucial, it’s the trimmer line that actually does the hard work.
Getting this element right is critical. The sort of line you choose will affect how your machine cuts, the types of material it can slice through and how long your line will last.
That being said, you’ll generally be very limited as to what line you can use. This is dictated by the string trimmer or brush cutter you’ll be using.
With extremely heavy cutting duties, go for 0.130-inch square line or 0.168-inch serrated. 0.130-inch twisted and 0.170-inch square line are a good fit if you’re using spooled line
In the guidelines above, you’ll notice your 2 main choices with trimmer line: pre-cut and spooled.
Before thinking about this, check the manual of your trimmer and see what type of line it suggests.
Compatibility is all about the trimmer head. If you have replaced this part of your cutter then take this into account.
If you have a fixed head trimmer, you’ll want pre-cut line.
Bump feed or twist feed systems mean you’ll need to hunt out some spooled trimmer line.
As with most aspects of choosing trimmer line, you don’t have much choice here. The type of appliance you have makes the decision for you when it comes to pre-cut or spooled line.
This is straightforward. The thicker the diameter, the heavier application it will serve.
With a larger diameter, you’ll enjoy increased cutting power. The line will also last longer when dealing with thick weeds and grass.
Again, consult your user manual. Most trimmers will only accommodate certain diameters of line.
The different shapes used for trimmer line influences the manner and efficiency of cutting.
You’ll come across round, twisted and squared line. There’s line with 5 or 6 points.
Broadly, you can think of line falling into 2 main categories:
The most common variety is round line. Due to the lack of cutting edges, round line can rip and tear grass rather than properly cutting.
A step up is twisted line. These sharp edges slice through even the thickest of weeds with little resistance.
Serrated line gives enhanced cutting power. In general, more edges translate to more power. Be careful when using this type of line. It can induce a grabbing action where the trimmer is pulled down toward the vegetation. Go slowly and get the feel for it to avoid accidents.
The majority of trimmer line is made from nylon.
There are variations on this when the goal is increased performance or durability.
Composite materials are sometimes added to the nylon for extra strength. Non-nylon polymers are also used for this purpose. Aluminum is another material thrown in for enhanced longevity.
The line can be reinforced to limit breakage.
Take a look at the material of the trimmer line you have in mind. Think about how the material will work for the cutting you have in mind.
Now you know what you need to focus on, it’s time for our look at the top 5 trimmer line so you can make the best choice.
Nylon and Titanium
First up in our look at these reviews is a cost-effective 3-pack from the industry giant Black + Decker.
This line fits a wide range of Black + Decker string trimmer models.
You’ll get 3 packs for maximum value. Each ones contains 30 feet of 0.065-inch line. This should be sufficient for all light cutting duties. If you are dealing with mainly grass, this line is ideal.
The spool system means you save time on constantly winding by hand. It’s instead fed using centrifugal force.
You can buy with complete confidence with a 2-year warranty from the manufacturer.
For some no-nonsense spooled string that combined performance and durability, this makes a smart choice.
If you have heavier-duty cutting in mind, Husqvarna offer some extremely rugged line for your weed eater.
This 0.095 diameter line is reinforced with titanium. This combination will let you cut through even thick, stubborn weeds fuss-free.
This line fits most regular trimmer heads so compatibility should not be an issue.
The incredibly rapid acceleration and first-rate flight characteristics do more than just boost performance. You’ll notice your trimmer running more quietly and using less fuel.
You’ll get 140 feet of line in this single spool making it wonderful value for money.
If you are looking for some hardcore line to cope with even heavy cutting projects, check out this spool from Husqvarna. It will deliver in fine style.
Some more heavy-gauge trimmer line from Oregon is up next.
Although it might seem expensive, you’ll get a whopping 3-pound spool giving you almost 700 feet of line.
This line is square cut and made from dual-layer polymer. It’s reinforced with aramid fibers and will cut through even dense undergrowth without a problem.
The strengthened inner core keeps line breakage to a minimum. The last thing you need is to keep on adding more line when you are working.
If you have a commercial weed eater or a string brush cutter, this line from Oregon makes a smart choice.
For a combination of durability, cutting power and value, this bumper spool from Oregon is well worth considering.
Shaped line has certain advantages and Cyclone have produced this bright blue commercial-grade line with a 6-bladed design capable of enhanced cutting power.
This 0.065-inch version is best suited for lighter cutting projects. If you plan to mainly cut back grass, this size works well.
Cyclone is a favorite among landscaping professionals. While this line suitable for professional work, if you have large areas of grass at home it’s also a great solution.
You’ll get 300 feet of line at a very reasonable price. When you consider how much you paid for your weed eater, investing in the best trimmer line is money well spent.
The co-polymer nylon means this line will stand the test of time.
Another variant of the same outstanding trimmer line from Cyclone, this time a heavier-duty 0.095-inch spool.
This bright orange line is identical in qualities to its smaller brother except that it gives you more strength and cutting power.
You’ll get the same innovative co-polymer nylon construction but with even more bite.
Whether you want to hack away weeds and shrubbery at home or on the worksite, this thick trimmer line from Cyclone is a must.
Hopefully, these reviews have pointed you in the right direction and helped you find the best line for your weed eater.
Once you have garden tools like this in place, giving your yard a professional finish is super-simple.
Please feel free to drop us a line with any feedback or questions. We respond as promptly as possible and we’re more than happy to help.
That time of year is coming again…
Time to get out in the garden and get everything looking ship-shape for the upcoming summer.
If you have a larger garden, you need a different range of tools to keep things in order. Just like you might treat yourself to the best lawn sweeper or log splitter, when it comes to hacking down overgrown foliage or trees, sometimes a simple pruning saw just isn’t man enough for the job.
We took a look this week at how to use the best brush cutter blade to make light work of pruning and cutting projects. Today, we’ll help you with 5 brush cutter blade reviews so you can get the very most out of your tools.
The more teeth on the brush cutter blade, the more cutting power you will enjoy.
If you need to take care of extremely light work, you can actually get a plain blade without any teeth at all. This is not really recommended. They tend to get dull in next to no time and have minimal cutting capacity.
Blades with 30-40 teeth are a better bet. You can take care of medium-duty projects like hacking down brush, overgrowth or brambles.
The best blades come with 80-120 teeth. These are a very smart choice. They work best for pruning jobs. If your foliage is getting out of hand, one of the blades with more teeth will take care of it in no time without needing to break out a professional chainsaw.
As with all purchases, take the time to think about exactly how you will use your brush cutter and buy the most suitable blades for the jobs you have in mind.
Brush cutter blades are made of steel but they come in many different varieties.
Some need regular sharpening while others are maintenance-free.
Standard steel blades are the cheapest option. They are also very widely available so you’ll never struggle to find a replacement.
For more hardcore cutting duties, carbide steel blades are more suitable. They will last longer as well. Although not quite as cheap, no blades are particularly expensive. Compared to the price of your brush cutter, it’s a small investment to make sure you get the best blades.
Brush cutters come with varying arbor sizes. This refers to the place where the blades are attached.
Make certain you check up on what size hole comes with your particular model.
Get this right. Don’t risk the blade being improperly attached as you’ll risk injury.
The power of your brush cutter is proportional to the diameter of its blade.
As the size increases, so you will need a more powerful brush cutter to keep the blade spinning at the optimum speed.
Not only will it slow down progress if your blade is not spinning quickly enough. It can also lead to kickback. The blade will meet resistance, be unable to carve through properly and then dangerously recoil.
Blades are available in 3 diameters:
Think carefully about your intended purpose. It’s worth getting the most suitable one for the jobs you have in mind.
Now you have the basics covered, it’s time to check out the top 5 brush cutter blades on the market.
Many brush cutter blades are offered in packs of 2 so you get the best of both worlds. First up is a set from the highly reputable Renegade.
Both of these blades are 8 inches in diameter. The 32-tooth blade is ideal for any weeds or smaller pieces of shrubbery and organic matter. The 80-tooth option will carve happily through much more substantial material.
These teeth are carbide-tipped for smooth, accurate cuts. The carbide means they will keep sharp for a long time even if you are cutting twigs and thicker overgrowth.
The supplied reducer washer allows you to use a 20mm or 25.4mm arbor sizing for complete flexibility.
Keep well clear of any concrete or metal fencing when you are working. Contact with metal or stone will rapidly dull the blade. Sharpening the carbide blade is expensive and awkward so make sure you take care.
Blade hardware is not provided. This great little video shows you how to fit the blade on without giving yourself a headache.
For thicker grass, unruly shrubbery and small branches, these Renegade blades offer a first-rate cutting experience without costing the earth.
Another pair of blades next before we move on to some single packs.
Both of these 8-inch PoolSupply Town AITE brush cutter blades are 8 inches in diameter with 80 teeth unlike the different sized ones from Renegade. It always pays to have a spare laid in so you can avoid needing to stop mid-flow.
The carbide tips add strength and accuracy. With more teeth, you’ll get real durability from these blades. As a guide, carbide tips can last 8-10 times longer than regular steel.
The universal fit is good for either 20mm or 25.4mm arbor sizing.
Be very careful when cutting with these blades. They can make the brush cutter rather difficult to control.
If you need to cut some small trees without reaching for a professional chainsaw, bang some of these AITE blades in your brush cutter and you’re good to go.
RazorMax make outstanding blades and this 7-inch comes with chainsaw teeth.
This blade will max out at an exceptional 10,000RPM. It’s incredibly tough and won’t get blunt in a hurry. You can always sharpen it with a chainsaw file if it does become dull over time.
Whether it’s overgrown weeds, thick and dense brush or unwieldy vines, this blade will work its way through whatever you throw in its direction.
You really do need to be proficient with a chainsaw in order to get the very most out of this blade. Your brush cutter will be fired up to perform with similar power and brute force so being familiar will set you at a distinct advantage.
If you are looking for an ideal combination of price, power and performance, give this 7-inch brush cutter blade a whirl.
The larger 9-inch RazorMax from MaxPower is another strong contender for the brush cutter blade.
You’ll get the same performance in every respect as with its smaller brother.
If you’re looking for something other than a regular brush cutter blade, either of these RazorMax with chainsaw teeth are well worth investigation.
You’ll slice your way through most garden debris without breaking a sweat.
Rounding out our study of the brush cutter blades is another fine version with chainsaw teeth from Forester.
The Forester is 8 inches in diameter and comes with 20 teeth.
When you are pruning or cutting bushes with this awesome blade, you won’t need too much force. A gentle action yields superb results.
This blade has real staying power. When it does start to dull, just sharpen it with a pile. It pays to buy two blades at a time so you always have a backup to hand.
Blades like this help to cut your costs. Where you might have needed both a chainsaw and a brush cutter, using a chainsaw tooth blade can cut your costs in half and allow you to perform a wider range of duties.
If you want a powerful, multi-purpose blade for your brush cutter at a very keen price, pop the Forester on your shortlist. It delivers in fine style.
We hope you have enjoyed these brief reviews. As they are a very simple product, we’ve kept this article brief and tried to give you just the basic facts you need to pick up the brush cutter blade for your needs.
Drop us a line any time you have questions or feedback. We will get back to you promptly and we’re always more than happy to assist in any way we can.
Weeding a garden isn’t a fun job, but it’s something that needs to be done regularly. To make it more efficient, choose the best weeder you can.
Keeping your garden, walkways, and yard free of weeds can be difficult. If you don’t look out for it frequently, weeds can creep in and thrive while you’re not paying attention. That makes a difficult job when you do need to weed! Even if you don’t give them uh time to grow, weeding can still be hard if you’ve got a large area or if you do it regularly. You need the weeder if you’re going to do a consistently good job in maintaining the place!
There are a few different types of weeders you can get. The main types are manual weeders and mechanized weeders. Notice, mechanized is not the same as electronic, since there are very few electronic weeders out there.
Manual weeders require you to get personal with the weeds, since you’ll be using your own strength to work them out. They are usually shaped well to reach down and pry the weeds out of the ground like a crowbar. Manual weeders are built to grab onto weeds and make it very easy for you to get them out of the ground without using a huge amount of force.
Mechanized weeders have some sort of mechanism that will do a lot of the work for you. That doesn’t mean you won’t have to do anything, but you’ll have a much easier time pulling the weeds out, since there will be a design in place to do most of the pulling. A lot of these types are twist and pull weeders or gripping weeders. Twist and pull clamps onto the weeds and twists them out of the ground, whereas gripping weeders grab the weed and pull it straight out. Most mechanized weeders have foot pedals.
Not everyone needs the best weed puller for their garden. If you have a raised bed garden with soft planting soil, you may not need a weeder at all. Although, if you have a few garden beds you’ll probably want a small manual weeder to help you do the job more quickly. Those with weeds in the walkway only can also use a manual weeder to pull them out. If you have a large yard that you like to weed, or a medium-sized garden, or if you have trouble kneeling down or bending over, a mechanized weeder can help you. Even if you use a grow tent, some smaller weeding tools come in handy.
Those that work in the commercial landscaping business will definitely want a good weeder to go along with them. If that’s you, you might want to consider getting both a manual and a mechanized weeder to make jobs of all sizes easier.
Weeders are not intended to pull up large plants, and most don’t work well on plants with woody stems. You should use them specifically for weeds. Depending on the type of weeds you have, you may need to look at a different weeder. For small to medium weeds, a manual weeder will work just fine. But if you have large weeds, you may need a specialized manual or mechanized weeder to deal with the larger size of the roots and the plants themselves.
Don’t use a weeder to pull up regular garden plants, unless they are also very small like a weed. It’s also not recommended to use them for digging or harvesting any type of plants, no matter how they might seem suited to that job. Be careful to avoid breaking the roots of your garden plants while you are weeding your garden.
What’s the point of using a weeder? Here are the great benefits you can actually get from a weeder:
- Targeted weeding
If you want to pull up a specific weed without hurting other things around it, a weeder is your best shot. Some people use shovels or hoes to weed out larger plants, but this is very inaccurate and you may end up damaging surrounding plants. Weeders are more targeted, and they allow you to get rid of what you want to without disturbing anything else.
Pulling up weeds with bare or gloved hands can really hurt your hands when you have to do it a lot. Even if it doesn’t hurt anymore, the calluses aren’t always desirable! Using a weeder keep you from having to pull everything up with your hands.
Weeders are great at getting the main root system of weeds to come up when you pull them. If you fail to pull up all the roots, the weeds will simply grow back again from their already established root system! Get a good weeder to solve the problem completely.
It takes a lot of work to pull a whole weed out of the ground. Using a weeder of any kind cuts down on the amount of your muscles will have to do in order to free the weeds from their dirt homes. Plus, you won’t have to carry around a heavy backpack sprayer full of weed killer!
What do you need to look at when you’re choosing a weeder? Here’s what I recommend as the most important features to consider when you’re searhing for the weeder:
Choose whether you want a manual weeder or a mechanized weeder. There are a lot of different kinds of weeders with mechanisms, so you’ll have a few choices in this category. Manual weeds also come in different shapes and types suited for various soil conditions and sizes of weeds.
Weeds with large, deep rots can be taken care of with a mechanized gripped weeder, whereas manual weeders are usually better for small to medium sized weeds. If the weeds have many small roots instead of one large taproot, a manual weeder is usually a better choice, since mechanized weeders are meant to pull weeds up and out.
You want a weeder that can withstand the hard life ahead of it. If you want a weeder that will last a long time, a manual weeder is usually your best option, because it won’t have any moving parts that can break or stop working. Mechanized weeders have a lot more advanced designs that can break more easily than manual weeders, especially when they are used extensively.
Although every type of weeder can work in soft dirt, not all weeders work well in harder dirt. If you have hard soil or clay soil, a manual weeder with a smaller, sharp blade design is your best option. Mechanized weeders don’t work well in soil that’s too hard, and you will risk breaking it.
Most mechanized weeders can be used while you’re standing, so they don’t require you to kneel down or bend your knees much. If you’re older or have any sort of health issues that would make kneeling or bending uncomfortable, than a mechanized weeder is a better choice for you. Manual weeders require you to kneel or bend down in order to reach the ground well and pull up weeds.
Standing or Kneeling
Small to large
Durable, tempered steel blade
Small to medium
Semi-durable, mix of plastic and metal
Soft to medium-hard, or wet soil
Small to large
Durable, steel blade with wood handle
Small to medium
Medium durability, cast aluminum blade
Soft to medium-hard, or wet soil
Medium to large
Durable, powdered steel and bamboo
This manual weeder boasts a very unique shape compared to most. It has a curved blade head that’s rounded at the end, making it great for digging small areas to remove weeds. You can get around a lot of different weed types with this weeder/cultivator, and it’s strong enough to last you years even with consistent use.
If you hate having to bend over and dig or pick up weeds, this Fiskars weeder does the trick. It has four small blades that you push into the ground. The blades grip around the weeds and their roots and pull both out of the ground when you push on the foot pedal. The is a quick release to drop the weeds into a container or on the ground.
This manual weeder is similar to a hoe, but much smaller. It’s a Japanese tool designed to fit comfortably into your hand and help you cut away dirt and pull up weeds. The steel blade is 5 inches long, and the tool itself is 11 inches long, so it’s pretty good at helping you reach around the pull away a lot of different types of weeds. Although it’s very lightweight, it’s also strong and durable.
Made primarily to help you pull out large taproots, this small handheld weeder is ideal for soft soils and smaller gardens. It would get tiring too use for larger areas, but it’s very effective at pulling out small to medium sized weeds of most types. The curved fork head is made from sturdy cast aluminum and is shaped to help you get the work done without as much effort.
Originally designed in 1913, this weeder still has a relevant mechanism today that helps you grip and pull a lot of different weeds from the ground. It’s made of strong powder-coated steel with a bamboo handle. It has a foot pedal to help you drive the blades deeply into the ground. Then, all you have to do is lean it to the side of the pedal to pull up the weed with minimal effort.
Out of the weeder reviews above, I want to recommend the CobraHead Weeder and Cultivator as the best weeder for most people. It’s got a solid design that makes it really versatile and ideal for removing a lot of differently sized weeds. The strong materials and excellent build also make it great for long-lasting use, so you won’t have to replace it quickly.
It’s not always easy to tell what a product will be like if you don’t know what to look for. Read our Pocket Hose Brass Top reviews for a clear idea.
Reading reviews about a product won’t do you any good until you know what you’re supposed to be looking for to indicate high quality. With Pocket Hose extendable hoses it’s the same, and you need to understand a bit about them before you can tell which one will be better than the others. As with most products, it’s mostly up to what you need for your home and yard. I want to help you understand Pocket Hose top brass reviews, so you can make the right choice when you’re buying one.
This refers to a specific brand of expanding hoses. Pocket Hose is a brand that makes a lot of different extendable hoses, including the top brass models made with brass tips. Not all Pocket Hose brand hoses have brass tops, but many have been upgraded from the typical plastic tips. Top brass hoses are a bit sturdier and may last longer before bursting or rupturing.
You may know Pocket Hoses from their infomercials on TV. They show how the expanding hoses work and give you a bit of a preview of what it will be like in your garden or yard. If the TV commercials made you want to know a bit more, I’m going to flesh out the information a bit to help you make a more informed decision based on the actual features of Pocket Hoses.
The honest truth is that most expandable hoses on the market today won’t last more than 1 year, if that. They just aren’t designed well enough to resist high water pressure for long, so they can develop rips and tears more quickly than standard garden hoses. So, if you want long-lasting hoses, a regular garden hose is probably fine. But, if you want a hose that’s easy to move around, lightweight, and very convenient while it lasts, Pocket Hoses and other expandable hoses are fantastic choices.
Although they don’t usually last for years, expandable hoses are still great for their purposes. If you have trouble moving a regular hose around the yard, or if you want something that fits more easily into storage, you may find that it’s worth using for as long as it lasts. If you prepare yourself ahead of time to spend a little more on hoses to replace broken ones every so often, you can get the full benefits of an expandable hose in your property.
This is just a specific brand of expanding hoses. There are a lot of other choices out there as well, but if you want the brand that you’ve seen on commercials, this is probably it. But, don’t let that stop you from comparing your options. If you just want the best expandable hose, you may want to consider other brands as well to find out what will suit your needs most. Pocket Hose is a well-known brand, but for what you want it may not be the best brand to choose.
If you get a good quality hose, you can expect these benefits:
These hoses are made from softer materials that won’t kink up or get into great big tangles. You won’t have the same problem that comes with traditional garden hoses that kink up and twist into horrible knots while they’re being stored. If these hoses do get into a tangle, they are also far easier to untie since they are soft and lightweight.
No more wrapping up a heavy hose and throwing it in a pile by the outdoor spigot. Instead, you can easily wrap these hoses up and hang them in a shaded storage area like the shed or garage. They weight far less than regular hoses, so they can be stored differently as well. No hose reel required!
If you want a 75ft. hose, you don’t have to buy and extremely hose that will be hard to pull around and difficult to store. An expandable hose will shrink down to a much smaller and more manageable size when you shut the water off. Some go down to just 1/3rd of the original length, making the hose so much easier to handle and much more pleasant to carry around.
50 or 75ft.
Amber seal tips
Black or green
Amber seal tips
Here are the main features you need to look at when you’re considering a Pocket Hose product:
Hoses come normally in 25, 50, or 75ft. length. Whatever you need, you’ll be able to get it for your home. Some yards with smaller spaces will be fine with a 25ft. hose, while others may need a longer hose to get around the hose. Keep in mind that the length given for Pocket Hoses is the fully expanded length of the hose once water fills it up. It does not refer to the length of the hose when it’s emptied of water.
If you want to get a hose that’s more versatile, you can buy separate 25ft. segments and connect them together. That way, if one bursts you can just replace the segment instead of getting an entirely new, long hose. You’ll also be able to use it at different lengths rather than being stuck with a very long hose for work close to the spigot.
This is the biggest thing to look at for expanding hoses. The tips are very important, since they are the only connection points on the hose and they are the areas that are most likely to spring leaks. If you can, get an expanding Pocket Hose with metal tips, not plastic. Some plastic tip models are available, but they not always the best idea since they are more likely to break and bring trouble.
Lining materials are also important, but most hoses use the same materials these days and there is little differentiation between in inside liners. Latex is very common, with double or triple layers being widely used. This is what you want, since it will be stronger and will prevent leaks more easily than other materials.
Hose colors make a difference when it comes to sun resistance and aesthetics. Hoses with darker colors may heat up more in the sun and get damaged. This is mostly if you leave the hose around unused in the sun for any period of time, so it won’t make a difference to those that will put it away immediately after finishing with it. Black hoses are commonly found, so be careful to avoid leaving these in the sun if you choose that color.
Grass green and light green are the other common colors. These are going to be better at resisting the heat from the sun, especially the light green hoses. If you’re worried about the hot sun on your hose, a light green Pocket Hose is probably a good choice for you to avoid some of the potential threats from the sun.
Out of our comparison table of top 5 Pocket Hose top brass, I would like to recommend the Spark Innovators 8703-12 Pocket Hose. It’s 50ft. long, which is enough length for most yards and for reaching your car from the outdoor spigot. The tips are made from brass, a metal that’s going to be a lot stronger than the plastic tips added onto some other expanding hoses. Although it’s black in color, you can help to avoid the potential heat damage by making sure you use it properly and store it once you’re done.
Remember that there are a lot of expanding hoses to choose from, and Pocket Hose is just one brand out of many that sells these nifty hoses. Check out how to find the best expandable hose and decide which brand and design might be right for you!