Different Types of Lawn Mowers

Since its invention in the early nineteenth century, the lawn mower has evolved into a wide variety of different designs, each intended for a different environment. Whether it is a simple push mower or a sophisticated riding lawn mower, there is a mower option for every lawn.

The Cylinder Lawn Mower

The simplest type of lawn mower is also the oldest. Called a cylinder mower or a push mower, this model is powered entirely by the person using it. A chain connects a cylinder of blades to the wheels, and as the user pushes the mower, the blades spin very quickly. Not only are these mowers almost entirely silent, but they also cut more neatly than any other mower designs, producing a beautiful yard with healthy grass. However, due to their modest size, they are best used by owners of small lawns.

The Rotary Lawn Mower

The most common type of mower is the rotary mower. In this model, a simple two-stroke motor powers a blade which spins in the horizontal plane. Inexpensive to operate, rotary mowers are efficient for most residential lawns; they are often self-propelled and can retain grass cuttings for easy disposal.

The Riding Lawn Mower

For large lawns, riding lawn mowers are popular. While they are more expensive than other models, they allow the user to sit while driving the mower across the yard. Riding lawn mowers also tend to have a wider cutting area and to travel at a higher speed, significantly reducing the time it takes to mow a lawn.

Thanks to the inventiveness of many generations, there is now a mower for every lawn, large and small. The evolution of mowers continues, however, and future designs are bound to bring more innovations in quality, efficiency and automation.