A manual or push reel lawn mower can cut tall grass to some extent, but it is not its primary purpose or ideal for this task. Push reel mowers are designed to provide a clean and precise cut on well-maintained lawns, where the grass is relatively short and even. However, if you find yourself with an overgrown lawn and no other options, a manual mower can still be used to tackle the tall grass.
When using a push reel mower on tall grass, it’s important to keep in mind that it will require more effort and time compared to mowing a well-maintained lawn. The mower’s blades are not as powerful as those in gas or electric mowers, so they may struggle to cut through tall grass efficiently. Additionally, tall grass can easily get tangled in the blades, leading to clogging and uneven cutting.
To achieve the best results when using a manual mower on tall grass, it is recommended to follow these tips:
1. Adjust the cutting height: Most push reel mowers allow you to adjust the cutting height. Set it to the highest position to avoid cutting the grass too short in one pass. Gradually lower the cutting height as the grass becomes more manageable.
2. Take it slow: When mowing tall grass, it’s important to move at a slower pace to give the mower blades enough time to cut through the grass effectively. Pushing too quickly may result in uneven cutting or missed spots.
3. Overlap your cuts: To ensure a more even and thorough cut, overlap each pass by about a third of the mower’s width. This will help prevent any missed areas and create a more uniform appearance.
4. Clear any obstacles: Before mowing, remove any sticks, rocks, or debris from the lawn to prevent damage to the mower blades and to ensure a smoother cutting experience.
5. Empty the grass catcher frequently: If your manual mower has a grass catcher, make sure to empty it frequently to prevent clogging. Tall grass can quickly fill up the catcher, causing the mower to become less efficient and potentially damaging the blades.
6. Consider multiple passes: In extreme cases of overgrown grass, it may be necessary to make multiple passes over the same area, gradually reducing the cutting height with each pass. This will help avoid putting excessive strain on the mower and ensure a cleaner cut.
It’s important to note that using a manual mower on tall grass can be physically demanding and time-consuming. If the grass is excessively tall or dense, it may be more practical to first trim it down with a string trimmer or a power mower before using a push reel mower for a final, more precise cut.
In my personal experience, I have used a manual mower on tall grass when faced with a sudden growth spurt or a neglected lawn. While it was certainly more challenging compared to mowing regularly, it was still possible to achieve a satisfactory result by following the tips mentioned above. However, it did require more time and effort, and I had to make several passes to ensure a clean cut.
