Lawn and Garden — FAQ
What makes a lawn mower good for mulching?
Effective mulching mowers have high-torque engines, deep-dome decks, and specialized blades that recirculate clippings multiple times. This pulverizes grass into fine particles that decompose quickly, returning nitrogen to your soil without thatch buildup.
Should I mulch when grass is wet?
Avoid mulching wet grass. Moisture causes clippings to clump, clogging the deck and leaving messy piles. Wait until grass is dry—usually afternoon—to achieve the fine, even mulch that nourishes your lawn without smothering it.
How often should I sharpen mulching blades?
Sharpen mulching blades every 20-25 hours of use—roughly twice per season for average homeowners. Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting, creating brown tips and reducing mulch fineness. A sharp blade maintains the vortex action critical for fine particles.
What's the ideal cutting height for mulching?
Set your mower to remove only the top 1/3 of grass blades. For most lawns, that's 2.5 to 3.5 inches. Cutting too low stresses the grass and produces excess thatch; too high reduces mulching effectiveness by limiting recirculation.
Are gas or electric mowers better for mulching?
Gas mowers generally offer more torque for dense grass, but modern 60V electric models like the Greenworks match gas performance for typical yards. Electric wins for noise, maintenance, and emissions; gas wins for unlimited runtime and maximum power in thick conditions.
Why does my mulching mower leave clumps?
Clumping results from mowing too fast, cutting too much at once, or wet grass. Slow your pace, raise the deck height, and mow more frequently. Also check for dull blades and deck buildup—scrape the underside clean after each use to maintain proper airflow.
