Maintaining a well-groomed lawn for large yards and acreages starts with choosing the right mower. But with so many options available, finding the perfect one for your acreage can be overwhelming.
Choosing the right lawn mower for your acreage means considering factors like yard size, terrain, and maintenance requirements. You’ll have to match the mower’s capabilities with the demands of your yard and prioritize features that help you get the job done safely and comfortably.
With the right lawn mower by your side, maintaining a lush, healthy lawn can be quick and easy. Here are Ty’s dos and don’ts, plus our most recommended models for every size acreage:
Do: Take a Look at All Your Options
When it comes to mowing an acreage, it’s important to know your options. Several types of mowers can get the job done efficiently. Let’s explore a few options:
• Riding mowers and lawn tractors: These are suitable for larger properties and can quickly cover a significant amount of ground. The latest models have comfortable seats, storage, and even cup holders. These models are easy to steer, making them comfortable and easy to use.
• Stand-on mowers: These mowers allow the operator to stand on a platform while cutting the grass. They are more maneuverable than riding mowers and offer better visibility. Stand-on mowers are great for uneven terrain and tight spaces, and the standing position can give you better visibility on land with many obstacles.
• Zero-turn mowers: These mowers are known for their ability to make tight turns without leaving uncut grass behind. They have a turning radius of zero degrees, allowing for efficient mowing around obstacles. Zero-turn mowers are ideal for large, open spaces.
Each option has its advantages, so it’s important to consider factors like the size of your property, terrain, and personal preferences. We’ll get into those pros & cons later in the article.
Don’t: Forget to Consider The Lay of Your Land
When choosing a mower for your yard, consider the lay of the land. Remember to select the type of mower that suits your acreage’s needs. Do you have brush that needs to be cleared? Does your property have hills and slopes? What about landscaping and other difficult obstacles?
If your land has thick brush or overgrown vegetation, you’ll need a mower with brush-clearing capability. Look for models with a brush blade or attachment that can easily handle this type of terrain.
If your yard has hilly or sloped areas, you’ll want to choose a mower with good traction and stability to avoid accidents or difficulties. Consider a mower with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive for better maneuverability on uneven terrain.
Take note of any other obstacles in your yard, such as trees, rocks, flower beds, water features, gravel drives, and more. Look for a mower with a smaller cutting deck or a steering mechanism that allows for precise maneuvering around these obstacles.
Do: Consider Deck Size
Speaking of deck size, when choosing a mower for your acreage, you’ll need to consider the width of the cutting blade.
A larger deck size allows you to cover more ground with each pass. This means you can mow your acreage in less time, saving you valuable time and effort. Larger deck sizes require more space, so think about your storage area and choose a mower that fits comfortably.
On the other hand, it’s important to consider your property’s layout and obstacles. A larger deck size may not be suitable if you have narrow pathways, tight corners, or lots of trees. A smaller deck size would offer better maneuverability for those properties.
Don’t forget about precision. A mower with a smaller deck size typically provides a more precise and even cut. Try to strike the right balance between a deck small enough to give a clean cut in tight spots but big enough to get the job done quickly.
Zero Turn Mowers vs. Riding Mowers for Acreages
Now that you’ve mastered the dos and don’ts, let’s examine the two most popular options for tackling your acreage lawn: zero-turn mowers and riding mowers. Both machines have advantages, and it’s important to understand their key differences to find the best fit for your needs.
Maneuverability
• Zero-turn mowers: These machines are known for their excellent maneuverability. With their ability to turn within their own footprint, AKA a zero-degree turn, they can easily navigate around obstacles, trees, and flower beds. This makes them perfect for properties with tight spaces or intricate landscaping.
• Riding mowers: While not as agile as zero-turn mowers, riding mowers still offer decent maneuverability. They are equipped with a steering wheel, allowing for more precise turning and these may be easier to control for beginners. Riding mowers are ideal for larger, open spaces without many obstacles to navigate around.
Speed and Efficiency
• Zero-turn mowers: These machines are designed for speed and efficiency. Their wide cutting decks allow them to mow faster, reducing your mowing time by 60-75%. With their powerful engines, zero-turn mowers can easily handle thick grass and rough terrain.
• Riding mowers: While riding mowers may not be as speedy as zero-turn mowers, they still offer decent efficiency. They are equipped with versatile cutting decks that can handle various grass lengths and types. Riding mowers are suitable for moderate to large properties that require regular mowing.
Pros & Cons for Every Acreage Mowing Option
Gas Riding Lawn Mowers & Lawn Tractors
Pros:
• Speed: Gas-powered mowers are generally faster than other types, allowing you to finish mowing your acreage in less time.
• Efficiency: Gas-riding mowers with a wider cutting deck can cover a larger area in one pass, reducing the time and effort required.
• Power: Gas engines provide a greater amount of power, making it easier to tackle tough grass, inclines, or rough terrain.
• Versatility: These mowers often have additional features like mulching or bagging capabilities, providing versatile options for maintaining your acreage.
Cons:
• Noise and emissions: Gas-powered mowers tend to be louder than electric or manual options, which could be a concern for noise-sensitive neighbors. Additionally, they emit exhaust fumes, contributing to air pollution.
• Maintenance: Gas engines require regular maintenance, such as oil changes and spark plug replacements. This adds to the overall cost and effort involved in owning a gas-powered riding mower.
• Fuel costs: Using gasoline as fuel can become expensive over time, especially for large acreages that require more frequent mowing.
• Environmental impact: Gasoline is a non-renewable fossil fuel, and its extraction and burning contribute to environmental damage, such as greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
Electric Zero Turn Mowers
Pros:
• Eco-friendly: One major advantage of using an electric zero-turn mower is that it produces zero emissions. This helps to reduce air pollution and protect the environment.
• Quiet operation: Unlike gas-powered mowers that can be noisy, the electric zero-turn mower operates quietly. This is not only beneficial for the operator’s comfort, but it also reduces noise pollution for the neighbors.
• Lower maintenance: Electric mowers require less maintenance than their gas-powered counterparts. There is no need for oil changes, spark plug replacements, or carburetor adjustments, which saves time and money on maintenance costs.
• Efficient and precise: Electric zero-turn mowers are highly efficient and provide excellent maneuverability. They can quickly navigate around obstacles and tight spaces, allowing for a more precise mowing experience.
Cons:
• Limited battery life: The main drawback of battery-powered mowers is their limited runtime. Depending on the model, the battery may last for 1-2 hours, which may not be sufficient to mow the largest acreages in one go. (However, a spare battery can be purchased for extended use!)
• Initial cost: Electric zero-turn mowers can be more expensive upfront compared to traditional gas-powered mowers. However, the cost can be offset over time through savings on fuel and maintenance. Don’t forget to consider financing and bundling options from your dealer.
Gas-powered Zero-turn Mowers
Pros:
• Speed: Gas-powered zero-turn mowers are known for their exceptional speed, allowing you to cover a large area in a shorter amount of time compared to other types of mowers.
• Maneuverability: These mowers can make quick and precise turns, easily navigating around obstacles and tight corners, making them ideal for mowing around trees, flower beds, and other objects on your acreage.
• Efficiency: Gas-powered zero-turn mowers are equipped with powerful engines, enabling them to cut grass efficiently and evenly, ensuring a well-groomed appearance.
Cons:
• Noise and pollution: Gas-powered mowers tend to be noisier and emit more greenhouse gases than electric or battery-powered ones. This can be a concern for those who are environmentally conscious or have noise restrictions in their area.
• Maintenance: Gas-powered mowers require regular maintenance, such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks. This can add to the overall cost and time investment associated with using these mowers.
• Price: Gas-powered zero-turn mowers can be more expensive than other types of mowers, like lawn tractors. Additionally, the cost of fuel is an ongoing expense to consider.
The Best Mower Options by Acreage
From small acreages to sprawling estates, here are Ty’s top picks for the best mowers for acreage owners:
Best Riding Tractor for Lawns Over 2 Acres
XT1 LT42 by Cub Cadet
The XT1 LT42 from Cub Cadet is a top-notch riding tractor for lawns exceeding two acres. It is highly regarded for its superior performance and reliability. With a powerful engine and a cutting deck of 42 inches, it offers excellent maneuverability and efficiency. The XT1 LT42 also features a comfortable high-back seat, allowing for a smooth and comfortable ride. Its ergonomic design ensures easy operation and minimal maintenance.
This riding tractor is equipped with a hydrostatic transmission, providing seamless speed control. Overall, the XT1 LT42 is an excellent option for maintaining large lawns with ease and precision.
Best Lawn Mowers for 3+ Acres
RZ 760i K by STIHL
The RZ 760i K is a zero-turn mower that combines power and precision with STIHL’s advanced, reliable battery power. Its innovative design allows for easy maneuverability and efficient cutting. With a cutting width of 60 inches, this mower can cover large areas in less time. It also features a comfortable seat and ergonomic controls for a pleasant mowing experience.
Toro’s TimeCutter Line
The Toro TimeCutter line provides another excellent set of choices for mowing properties larger than 3 acres. These mowers offer exceptional performance and versatility. With cutting decks from 34″ to 60″, there’s a TimeCutter model for every property, regardless of tight spaces or landscaping features. The TimeCutter line also features a Smart Speed control system, allowing you to adjust the mower’s speed to match your preferences and mowing conditions.
And, and honorable mention goes to the XT1 LT42 from Cub Cadet, our 2-acre pick above, which will easily take care of most 3-acre properties, too.
Best Lawn Mower for More Than 5 Acres
Grasshopper 526V-52
This zero-turn mower from Grasshopper is designed to handle large properties with ease. It features a 52-inch cutting deck, which allows you to mow a wide path in less time. The mower also offers excellent maneuverability, allowing you to navigate around obstacles quickly and efficiently. With its powerful engine and comfortable seating, the Grasshopper 526V-52 ensures a smooth and enjoyable mowing experience.
Plus, Grasshopper products are well known for their longevity, making this an investment that will last for years and years.
Toro TimeCutter & TITAN Lines
The Toro TimeCutter series, as mentioned above, has deck sizes to suit every property. Stick with the 54″ or 60″ decks to make quick work of your +5 acre property.
Toro’s 60 in. TITAN is a great combination of commercial-grade power and luxury comfort to make short work of your big acreage. The MyRIDE Suspension System provides a safe, comfortable ride. This beast is made to last, with a wide front tubular axle, huge front tires, and a reinforced 10-gauge, high-strength deck edge with a triangle bullnose leading edge.
Hustler Raptor XD
The Raptor XD by Hustler is another excellent choice for mowing five acres or more. Raptors come in deck sizes from 42″ to 60″, allowing you to mow large areas quickly and efficiently without sacrificing maneuverability. These zero-turn mowers are equipped with powerful engines that deliver impressive performance and last for decades. Additionally, the Raptor XD offers excellent operator comfort and control, ensuring a pleasant mowing experience.
Get Expert Advice from Nebraska’s Outdoor Power Superstore
There’s a lot to consider when it comes time to make the investment in a new piece of lawn equipment for your acreage. With the number of options on the market, it can feel impossible to choose! There’s no substitute for hands-on experience. Contact Ty’s Outdoor Power team to take one of our top mowers for a test cut! Our team will help demo the equipment you’re interested in, and help you find the right brand, model, and price for your property and budget. Schedule your demo today!
