In this series of articles, we take a look at different grass species, pair them off against each other, so you can decide which one is best for your yard.

Next up, is fescue grass vs St. Augustine grass.

Both with their advantages and disadvantages – but which one is right for your lawn?

Let’s find out – and stay tuned for a final verdict and FAQ section at the end.

Note – for the purposes of this article, we’ll be talking about fine fescue grass, and not tall fescue.

Key Differences Between Fescue and St Augustine Grass

To the untrained eye, all grass might well look alike – it’s all green, right?

But here are the main differences between fescue and St. Augustine:

However, both grasses do have an excellent shade tolerance, with fescue being the best out of any lawn grass species, and St. Augustine being the best of the warm season grasses.

Fescue Grass

Fescue, or “fine fescue” as it’s often known, is a broad term given to a number of different fescue grasses that are popular in the northern parts of the US, and more temperate climes around the world.

Hard fescue, sheep fescue, chewings fescue, creeping red fescue, and slender creeping red fescue are the main types. You’ll often find they are regularly blended to stand a better chance of survival.

Tall fescue is a different species altogether, and we’ve not included it in this particular article.

Fescue grasses are most commonly found in a mix of other species, such as Kentucky Bluegrass and perennial ryegrass. This is largely due to the fact that it doesn’t do well on its own in full sun.

Perhaps the main reasons it’s so popular is that it germinates quickly and has a very high shade tolerance. Of all the turfgrasses, fescue is also the most low-maintenance variety.

In leafy gardens in cool season areas, fescue can be just the ticket for overseeding or patching up bald spots in your turf. And if you want some more information on how to do that, check out this article on lawn recovery after winter.

Pros of Fescue Grass

Cons of Fescue Grass

Characteristics, Growing Conditions, and Appearance

The main characteristics of a fescue lawn is that they are the very definition of low maintenance.

They have an excellent drought tolerance, so they don’t require frequent watering, largely thanks to the deep root system that can access underground moisture.

And while they germinate quickly, and you’ll see new grass blades in as little as two weeks, it doesn’t grow so fast as you’ll be mowing the lawn every couple of days (which you shouldn’t be doing anyway).

Fine fescues will go dormant under the stresses of heat, but will re-invigorate when watered or given shade. They are the most shade-tolerant of all lawn grass species.

As for appearance, they’re recognizable for their fine, hair-like aesthetic, with thin blades that are no more than 1/16-inch or less and that taper into a pronounced tip.

It’s a soft grass, which makes it enjoyable as a tactile, roll-around option, ideal in areas where children (and adults) like to play.

Most fescue types look very similar, and they’re often hard to tell apart. But don’t confuse fine fescue with tall fescue here – which is a stiffer grass with not as much give.

Aggression and Invasiveness

Fine fescue isn’t a particularly aggressive species, and it plays well with others. It’s certainly not as assertive and invasive as tall fescue.

As mentioned, you’ll find that fescue grass is often mixed with other species, as it won’t take over and crowd out other variants.

However, it will dominate if its optimum conditions are met, while other grasses needs aren’t being fulfilled – but the same can be said for almost all grass types.

Check out this article when fescue goes up against zoysia – which is known as a more invasive grass species – to really see a difference with temperament.

Planting and Caring for Fescue Grass

Growing fine fescue requires a soil pH level of between 5.0 to 6.5. Pick up a soil testing kit and make sure you have optimum conditions. Add lime if you need to balance it out.

Sow in late summer/early fall, when soil temperatures are the best for growth – consistently just above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, but without the blazing heat and stress of the summer months.

Failing that, spring is also a good time to plant a fescue seed mix.

While fescue is drought tolerant and germinates fast, it will still need regular watering initially – at least until it becomes established.

Plan to water a new fescue-based lawn two to three times a day, for around five minutes at a time. Once it has taken hold, you can cut that right back and let nature do her thing.

Pesticides are not normally required, although you should take care in high moisture areas and ensure you have adequate drainage.

One way to do that, is to know when to aerate your lawn, so follow that link for some more top lawn care advice – no matter the species of grass.

Add a suitable fertilizer around two to three days after your initial seed, so as not to crowd the lawn with too much material right away.

Fescue grasses don’t need to be scalped when it comes to mowing, and you should be looking at trimming your lawn every couple of weeks during spring growing seasons.

But remember – try not to stick to a set schedule, rather checking the height of the grass.

Mow fescue when it gets to around 3-3 1/2 -inches, and to not less than two inches in height. And be sure to keep your mower blade in top condition with one of these lawnmower blade sharpeners.

It is not recommended you use herbicides anywhere near fine fescue as they won’t be able to handle them well. Try this article on the best chemical free weed solutions for your lawn for an alternative.

St Augustine Grass

A popular warm season grass, St. Augustine is best suited to hotter climes, in places such as Florida, Southern California, and the Gulf states.

It thrives in higher temperatures, anywhere from 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit, and is known for its salt tolerance – which makes it an ideal option for such coastal regions.

It’s also known to thrive in sandy soils – which is convenient for sea-front locations.

However, it does need a fair bit of moisture to achieve optimum health, and still doesn’t do at all well in colder temperatures.

There are several types of St. Augustine grass, including palmetto, citrablue, Seville, and floratam.

Floratam is actually a common name used to describe St. Augustine, given that it’s the most popular and widely-used variant.

Pros of St Augustine Grass

Cons of St Augustine Grass

Characteristics, Growing Conditions, and Appearance

Visit almost any home along the Gulf Coast in the US, and there’s a strong chance the yard will be rocking St. Augustine grass.

Known to withstand salt, heat, and shade, St. Augustine is a prime choice for these warmer coastal regions.

Compared to other warm season grasses such as Bermuda and zoysia, St. Augustine has a higher drought tolerance, and will remain greener for longer in hot conditions.

This article covers zoysia grass vs St. Augustine grass in more detail.

It forms a thick, durable sod – with similar characteristics to that of a dense green carpet. However, such pleasures only come with high maintenance – and St. Augustine can be tricky to keep happy.

The coarseness of the grass also has the ability to crowd out weeds, undesirable plants, and trouble spots. This can be both a blessing and a curse, as you might not notice that St. Augustine actually has a problem.

It’s quick to brown when the first frosts arrive, and slow to green when the winter finally ends. It’s not as tolerant to traffic as you might expect, and is better to look at than it is play upon.

You can identify St. Augustine grass by its attractive blue/green hue, and broad blades with rounded tips, that can be up to 1/4-inch wide.

Aggression and Invasiveness

Compared with fescue, St. Augustine is certainly the more aggressive variant, but when it comes up against something like centipede, there’s not a lot in it.

Although not regarded as invasive, St. Augustine is still an aggressive grower, and it can spread rapidly where planted, providing its needs are being met.

Which is basically a hot climate with plenty of water. So, subtropical, then.

Planting and Caring for Fescue Grass

St. Augustine is planted from sod or plugs only, and rarely – if ever – from seed.

This actually makes it relatively easy to start a lawn with this grass, as plugs of St. Augustine will spread quickly to cover bare spots and form a nice, even surface.

The best time to establish a St. Augustine lawn is in spring and summer. Look for days when the temperature is consistently between 80-100 degrees Fahrenheit.

It requires a soil pH level of 6-6.5 to thrive. If your soil is higher than this, you can add sulfur to balance it out.

You’ll need to measure the area you’re planting in order to figure out how much sod or how many plugs you should order.

Depending on where you’re purchasing from, a pallet of sod will cover around 450 square feet, while a tray of 18 plugs will cover 32 square feet.

Lawn-care experts Scotts offer some practical advice on how best to plant St. Augustine.

And you must always be keeping an eye out for disease, pests, and bugs. Take action if you notice anything out of the ordinary – particularly brown spots or mildew.

St. Augustine will need the application of a suitable fertilizer, and if the soil has a higher pH, then iron supplements might need to be applied.

Look out for yellowing grass spots in St. Augustine – that could mean an iron deficiency. Take a look at this article for more help with yellow grass in general.

And with the grass being susceptible to bugs, you might need to apply a compatible pesticide to prevent any problems from breaking out.

When it comes to mowing, St. Augustine is a thick grass, a full-bodied, broad species that demands to be cut high.

You can feel free to wait until the grass reaches up to 4 1/2 – inches before giving it a trim, and whatever you do – don’t cut it down any lower than 2 1/2 – inches.

And be especially careful when using string trimmers, as you can easily scalp and expose the grass to the hot sun if you’re not careful.

Either way, you’re going to want to make sure your lawnmower is in top condition to handle St. Augustine – so follow that link for some excellent maintenance tips, and be sure to keep your blade sharp.

When it comes to irrigation, St. Augustine needs a lot of attention. While it doesn’t need to be flooded, it does need to be watered often and consistently.

A good sprinkler system is highly advisable – especially if you live in a region with little rainfall. Aim for no more than one inch of water for the week – but not all at once.

And you can check out this excellent, in-depth video for more information on how best to care for St. Augustine grass.

Which is Better?

How long is a piece of string?

Here you have two, completely different grass species for growing in completely different grass seasons. It’s like comparing chalk and cheese.

If you live in the north – fescue is better, if you live in the south, St. Augustine is the way to go.

However, having said all that, for the sheer fact that it is much easier to maintain in the long run, I would say fescue edges it. If I HAD to make a choice.

FAQs

Will Fescue grass take over St Augustine?

No. If anything it’s going to be the other way around, as St Augustine is the more aggressive of the two.

Neither grass is considered invasive, but St Augustine will choke out fescue if and when it comes into contact with it – and conditions are met.

Can you mix Fescue and St Augustine grass?

Given that one’s a warm season grass and the other a cool season species, I wouldn’t advise it. Catering to a lawn that has mixed needs is going to be a real challenge.

Regardless, you’ll need the right equipment to cater for any lawn, and you should take a look at this article on the best lawn-care tools to get started.

How often should you mow fescue?

Fescue doesn’t need to be mowed that often, and given that you should be aiming to take no more than third of the blade tip each time, I would recommend waiting until the fescue is between 3-3 3/4 – inches before breaking out the mower.

And if you’re not sure what time of machine to use, might I suggest you take a look at this article on the different types of lawnmower that are available today?

Where does St Augustine grow best?

St Augustine thrives in warm coastal regions, like Florida and along the southern coast of the United States.

A prominent tropical and subtropical species, you will also find it planted and growing healthily in many countries south of the equator.

It’s known as buffalo turf in Australia and buffalo grass in South Africa.

Is fine fescue good for lawns?

Providing you’re in a cool-season grass region, fine fescue makes an excellent species for lawns – although it’s highly likely it will be mixed with other variants to maximize health.

How often should St Augustine grass be watered?

St. Augustine is a thirsty plant, and it needs regular watering to maintain a healthy appearance.

Approximately 1/2 – inch of water at least twice a week is required.

It certainly doesn’t have the drought tolerance of Bahia, and you can read more about that match up in this article on St. Augustine vs Bahia grass.

Summary

Two of the most popular lawn turf species, fescue grass vs St. Augustine has yielded no clear winner.

That’s probably due to the fact that they’re so different, and thrive in polar opposite regions.

Still, we all have our favorites, and you can tell me yours in the comments below. Since I have a fescue lawn – I’m slightly biased.

And until next time, I wish you the very best of luck with your lawns!

Your once fresh and healthy grass has turned on you, now a brown and yellow color. A lawn full of life, now dry and dead.

How did this happen? Is it fixable? Can yellow grass truly become green once again?

Regardless of whether you have several small yellow patches, or an endless sea of yellow plaguing your lawn, here are the most essential tips and tricks on how to fix yellow grass.

You might be scratching your head… how did this happen?

Let’s find out.

Reasons Behind Yellow Grass

What causes yellow grass?

Weather and Temperature

Healthy grass is full of moisture. When the weather is hot and dry, especially during the summer months, grass will sometimes become yellow due to dryness.

High temperatures and excessive exposure to sunlight can cause patches of discoloration to take over your once fresh lawn.

Also, when temperatures fluctuate during certain times of year, like fall and spring, grass becomes more vulnerable to disease, which can exacerbate the yellow or brown color.

Seasonal Changes

The changing seasons can prove to be problematic for your lawn. Long periods of rain as spring arrives can lead to overwatering.

In addition, certain types of grass fare better during certain times of the year.

For example, St. Augustine grass grows best in warmer climates, and during the colder months it often will die and turn into a brown color.

It’s also important to note that cutting your lawn too short past the spring season can cause brown or discolored grass.

Fertilization

Fertilizing your lawn provides it with the necessary minerals and nutrients for healthy grass to grow.

However, if done improperly, fertilization can have the opposite effect.

If your grass becomes overfertilized, by either applying too much in one area or by overlapping the same areas, this can cause chemical burns, which will ultimately kill the grass.

If too little fertilizer is used, the grass will not have the necessary nutrients to grow properly.

Nitrogen & Iron

The levels of both nitrogen and iron can affect the way grass grows.

If your lawn’s soil is nitrogen deficient, this essentially stunts the growth of grass.

On the other hand, too much nitrogen will promote dead grass. Animal urine or over-applying fertilizer can cause nitrogen levels to rise, and this will burn through the root system of the grass, depriving it of nutrients and water.

Similarly, iron deficiency makes it more difficult for the grass to flourish. In spring, long periods of rain can cause more grass to grow than the amount of nutrients available, causing the yellow grass as the summer months approach.

Soil Compaction

Compaction of the soil, or when the soil is tightly packed together, can inhibit the growth of grass.

When the soil is too tightly packed, the roots are unable to soak in the necessary supplements for growth.

Compaction most often occurs following the winter season, after layers of snow have pushed the dirt together.

Construction vehicles or even running your lawnmower in the same mowing pattern can cause compaction. It can also occur in areas of heavy foot traffic, so be aware of who is stepping on your grass!

Pests & Fungus

Certain insects and pests could be the reason behind your yellowing grass. They often feed on and cause the grass to die.

Pests typically appear as the temperatures get warmer. Likewise, a yellow lawn often signals the presence of fungus or disease.

Fungi can invade your lawn, causing the sea of yellow to appear. Fungi like snow mold or fairy rings will eat the healthy bacteria that helps the grass grow, and in extreme cases, fungi will invade and actually take over the area where grass was once growing.

Watering

Finding the perfect balance of watering for your lawn can be difficult. On the one hand, under-watering causes the grass to dry out and die.

On the other hand, over-watering will drown the grass’s root system, and deprive the grass of necessary oxygen and other nutrients.

It will also cause the roots to grow closer to the surface of the soil, leaving more susceptibility to fungus or pests.

Mowing

Your mower can have more impact on your lawn than just cutting it. Running your mower over in the same patterns can cause soil compaction.

Not only this but if your mower blades are dull, this can cause the grass to yellow. Dull blades prevent a clean cut, which when left uneven, can leave the grass more vulnerable to diseases.

Now that you know all of the different issues that may be torturing your lawn, it’s time to identify the problem.

Identifying the Reason Your Grass is Turning Yellow

Here are some indicators and things to look for when identifying the reason your grass is turning yellow:

Not sure where to begin?

Start here.

After reviewing this list, you have some idea of what is causing the yellow plague on your lawn.

Now it’s time to get down and dirty, and treat the problem to restore your grass. Fear not, it is indeed possible for yellow grass to be restored.

How to Turn Yellow Grass Green Again?

Feeling like you need a magic wand? Or perhaps a time machine? Don’t worry. Following these steps will guarantee returning green grass to your lawn.

Watering

It’s important to strike a balance between over and under-watering your lawn. Your lawn needs to be watered only when the top layer of soil is noticeably dry.

Watering your grass deeply but infrequently is key for green growth.

Also, be sure to identify the type of soil your grass is growing in. Clay soil will hold more water, while sandy soil will not.

To find more information and products that will make watering your lawn easier, visit this article – “Best Expandable Garden Hoses for Easier Watering!”

Pest and Fungus Control

The exact steps for pest control often depends on the exact type of pest, but there are some general steps to eradicate the problem.

Insecticide is one of the most common ways to alleviate pests and other insects. Be aware of the type and chemical content of the insecticide you are applying.

To treat fungus, there are several preventative measures as well as action steps to take. For prevention, it is best to keep your lawn well-maintained.

Watering in the early morning hours is beneficial, as it allows the moisture to spread throughout the day, which will help combat disease.

Keeping your lawn mowed, aerated, and watered will help combat any fungi. If you find yourself facing a persistent problem, you may need to apply a fungicide to your lawn.

Fertilization

Fertilizing your lawn can help balance the soil and make sure your grass’s roots have the right nutrients and minerals for maximum growth.

If iron or nitrogen deficiencies are present in your soil, applying fertilizer can rebalance its contents. The best way to apply fertilizer is to use a spreader.

This will ensure that the fertilizer is distributed evenly, and won’t leave any patches of soil untreated. The most essential step in applying fertilizer is to water the grass deeply after application.

Watering will allow for the chemicals in the fertilizer to reach the grass roots, instead of sitting on top and burning the grass blades, creating more yellow patches.

Compaction

Soil compaction can cause yellow spots by putting pressure on the root system of the grass and depriving it of the necessary nutrients.

The best way to fix compaction is to loosen the soil, either by raking your lawn by hand or using an aerator.

With yellow grass, you’ll want to aerate fairly aggressively. The grass is already dead, so don’t worry about any damage or harm. Aerate when the soil is moist, and finish the job by reseeding the affected areas.

Mowing

If you notice your grass turning yellow after cutting the lawn, your mower might be causing the discoloration.

This is an easy fix. Make sure the blades on your mower are sharpened, in order to mow the grass with a clean cut.

If you have a decent amount of discolored grass, consider putting your mower on a slightly lower setting, to allow green grass to replace the yellow.

However, make sure the setting is not too low. Constant short cuts can worsen the discoloring.

Other Tips

Some other important things to consider when restoring your yellow lawn include the surrounding plants.

If your lawn is mostly covered by trees, a lack of sunlight could be turning your grass yellow, so you might consider cutting trees down.

Also, be sure to rake or blow any leftover grass clippings from mowing, or fallen leaves. Leftover materials sitting on the grass will turn it yellow.

It is also important to monitor the drainage of your lawn. If puddles or pools of water sit on the grass, this will prevent necessary oxygen and nutrients from getting to the roots, and the grass will become yellow.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will it take for my grass to become green again?

Grass growth in general is a gradual process, so exact changes in color may be difficult to observe. If you follow all of the necessary steps the correct way, and the weather conditions are fair, your grass should start to grow green within one to two weeks.

How often should I be watering my grass to turn it green?

The recommended about of watering varies, depending on rain frequency and temperature. Your only need to water your lawn if the top layer of soil is noticeably dry.

A deep, infrequent watering of usually one to two times per week in the summer months is recommended.

How do I identify the type of grass growing in my lawn?

First, do some research to find out which grasses most commonly grow within your area or region. Some other things to look for when identifying the type of grass are blade shape, color and texture.

What kind of insecticide should I use to combat any pests or insects in my grass?

The exact type of insecticide necessary for your lawn depends on the exact type of pest you want to eradicate.

Regardless of the insecticide, it is essential to make note of the chemicals you are applying to your grass.

Organic insecticides are recommended to lower the risk of killing any helpful insects in the ecosystem of your lawn.

What if I can’t get rid of my yellow grass?

If you feel like you have tried everything you possibly could to alleviate any problems with your grass, you may want to consider reseeding or replacing any yellow patches with sod.

Summary

In conclusion, if you are faced with a sea of yellow grass, don’t worry.

There are plenty of measures you can take to prevent, as well as actively treat the problems causing any grass discoloration.

Following the steps in this article will guarantee an improvement in your grass. Be sure to visit the links included for any additional information.

Comment down below any personal tips or insight about your own experience of how to fix yellow grass!

Therefore, it must break down and fertilize the grass, right?

Wrong!

Leaving dog poop on the lawn is never a good idea.

I’m going to tell you why and give you some ideas for what to do instead.

So if you’re looking for ways to grow a healthy lawn while continuing a loving relationship with your canine friend, you’re in the right place!

Quick Read

Is Dog Poop Bad for Your Lawn?

It’s surprisingly common to wonder: Is dog poop bad for grass?

The short answer is yes. Always.

There is no dancing around it. There are no justifications for leaving dog poo on your lawn (or anywhere for that matter). It is always bad and it should always be picked up.

But why is it bad?

Another short answer – dog poop kills grass.

It’s easy to think that since other animal manure is so good for the garden, doggie poop must be too.

And while that would be handy, unfortunately, it’s not the case.

The main consideration is what each animal eats and how that relates to the amount of nitrogen in its waste.

Herbivores that eat exclusively plants produce feces that are relatively low in nitrogen, or at least well balanced with other nutrients, and can be decomposed quickly.

Dogs, on the other hand, are often fed very high protein diets of predominantly meat. This results in waste that is very high in nitrogen and takes a long time to break down (up to a year!).

And, while nitrogen is an important nutrient for plant growth, too much actually causes nitrogen burn, and excessive nitrogen burn kills grass.

This means that dog poop left on the lawn will result in dead spots.

So if you’re still wondering, does dog poop fertilize grass? The answer is, not in a way that is healthy or helpful.

But the other important consideration is all of the diseases and parasites that can be present in dog poop. The EPA has even labeled dog poop as a toxic waste because of this!

For example, did you know that dog poop can contain:

And, did you know that simply touching the soil and then eating a snack can be enough for you or your children to contract any one of these diseases? Gross, right?

But these diseases can spread even further, such as into local waterways, making nearby lakes and rivers unsafe to swim in. It can even contaminate local drinking water supplies.

This means that even if mowing over your dog’s poop (also gross!) helps to prevent nitrogen burn, what it’s also doing is spreading all those potential diseases around your yard.

Luckily, it is easy to prevent this from happening. Keep reading to find out your options.

How to Grow a Healthy Lawn without Getting Rid of Your Dog

The easiest way to manage the risks of dog poop on your lawn is to be disciplined about picking it up straight away.

The most environmentally friendly way of disposing of dog poop is then to transfer it to a kind of doggie doo septic tank that you can easily build in your yard. This video can show you how.

But back to your lawn.

If you know that picking up dog poop as soon as your pooch has done its business is not something you’re going to manage, then make life easier for yourself and designate a specific toilet area in your yard.

We often train our pets to toilet on the grass, but if they toilet instead on a designated gravel or stone area, then it’s not such a problem if the poop isn’t picked up straight away (at least as far as your lawn is concerned – it should still be picked up as soon as possible to prevent pollution of the surrounding environment).

My lawn already has yellow patches – is it too late?

If you have yellow patches that have started to appear from dog waste that has sat for too long, your next course of action is to water those patches well to dilute the nitrogen that is concentrated there.

If the grass has already started to turn yellow, it may not survive and you may have to reseed those patches.

But (provided you live in a region with plenty of water and no restrictions in place) even if you’ve left a poop on the lawn for a few days and the grass is not yet yellow, giving that spot a dousing with the watering can will help it to recover and prevent yellowing.

If you do have to reseed any dead patches, be sure to sprinkle some agricultural lime to neutralize the nitrogen left behind before adding some fresh top soil and the grass seeds.

If you’re wondering whether there may be some other causes to the yellow patches on your lawn, check out my article on common lawn problems to rule them out.

What About Dog Pee?

Good question!

Dog pee, though not quite as harmful for the surrounding environment as poop, can actually wreak more havoc on your lawn.

While dog poop can be picked up quickly, pee is absorbed into the ground instantly and can’t be contained.

The best way to minimize the impact of dog urine on your lawn is actually the same as for poop. Create a designated gravel area and train your dog to pee there instead of on the lawn. If that isn’t possible, the watering can needs to follow your dog when they go outside to relieve themselves.

In saying that, there is one alternative course of action that is pee-specific, and that is using ‘dog rocks’ in your dog’s water bowl.

Dog rocks are designed to be totally safe for your pet while reducing the concentration of nitrogen in their pee.

On the same note, it’s also helpful to make sure your dog has plenty of access to fresh water and isn’t dehydrated as this would also result in more concentrated pee.

A Couple of Other Options

We’ve talked about diluting your pet’s waste residue with water, designating a grass-free area for their toileting, and building a doggie-doo septic tank. But there are a couple more options worth considering if you’re a dedicated doggie-mum (or dad).

First, consider the grass type that you have growing in your lawn.

Different grass seed varieties are well suited to different climates and water availability, but did you know that some grasses tolerate dog waste better than others?

Perennial ryegrass, Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass tolerate the high concentrations of nitrogen that come with dog waste better than other species.

Grass that is a little longer will also have an easier time coping with concentrated nitrogen, so do your lawn a favor and set that mower a little higher.

Last but not least, do you need a lawn?

You may balk at this suggestion, and that’s understandable, since we’ve grown up in a pretty lawn-obsessed society. However, times are changing and more and more people are considering grass-free yards. Take a read of this article if you’re interested in checking out the alternatives.

If you’re new to caring for a lawn, make sure you have the necessary tools on hand and have a read this article.

Summary

I hope you’ve found this article useful and are now a converted dog poop picker upper!

After all, it comes with the territory, right? No one has a baby thinking they can get away without changing diapers!

There is no benefit to your grass or the surrounding environment if you leave your dog’s poop on the lawn. It takes a looooong time to break down, and causes pollution in the meantime.

Picking up the poop immediately and building a doggie septic tank to dispose of it is the best option for your lawn and the surrounding environment.

Thank you for reading and feel free to share this article with your fellow dog lovers!

You might even have treated the turf with the best non-toxic weed killers for a healthy lawn without using chemicals.

But if the edges are ragged, unsightly, and overgrown – then you’ve still got some work to do.

That’s where the best gas lawn edgers come in, designed to give your green space the razor-sharp, clean-cut edge it deserves – without breaking your back.

Read on to discover which model is right for you. A buyer’s guide and FAQ section will follow the reviews.

Be the envy of your neighbors with a lawn edge you could set a watch to.

TOP 7 Best Gas Lawn Edgers in 2026

Southland SWLE0799 Gas Lawn Edger

Starting us off is this 79 cc walk-behind gas edger from US company Southland. Fully CARB compliant and EPA certified, this machine is offered at the more budget-friendly end of the scale, but is far from a cheap piece of equipment.

It offers a manual recoil easy start with fuel delivery system, and five adjustable depth positions up to 2.5-inches, while the blade can be angled plus or minus 15 degrees for bevel capabilities.

The triangular, three-point blade will make short work of a lawn edge, giving you a crisp, clean finish, and it has the ability to straddle the curbside if you’re edging near the roadway.

Pros

Cons

Troy-Bilt Gas Walk-Behind Edger

Homedepot.com

Up next, we have a similar model with this 30 cc, four-cycle walk-behind gas edger from Troy-Bilt.

Offering a little more power, you still have the bonus of not requiring mixing gas and oil with the four-stroke engine – which also produces less noise and is more fuel-efficient than a two-stroke.

The spring-assisted technology and Prime & Go, two-step start ensures fast and easy starts, powering a nine-inch, dual-tipped steel blade that can penetrate to a depth of 1.75-inches.

A fully-molded, ergonomic handle offers comfortable, controlled use, which can be folded to maximize storage space.

Pros

Cons

Craftsman CMXGKAME30A Gas Lawn Edger

US company Craftsman manufactures some world-class power tools at affordable prices, and this 30 cc, four-cycle lawn edger is just another example of that mid-range workmanship.

Offering greater power with less vibration and no fuel mixing, it has an easy, two-step start which ensures a simple prime and pull will get you going. With mounted throttle controls on the ergonomic handle, the machine is intuitive to use and easy to maneuver.

The heavy-duty steel blade is nine-inches in size, steel-tipped, and offers six different cutting heights up to 1.75-inches.

Pros

Cons

Echo PAS-225VP Trimmer and Edger Kit

Now, I might be cheating a little with this entry, as it’s not strictly a dedicated lawn edger.

Manufactured by reputable power tool company Echo, who are known for their excellent backpack leaf blowers (among many other things), this is a trimmer and edger combo, with two, interchangeable heads for tackling both jobs.

The tool-less coupling makes switching them out easy and fast, so you don’t lose time and effort working in the yard, and the 21 cc engine with easy-start technology gives you plenty of power for each attachment.

The edger is clog-resistant, with an open face metal guard for protection, and the comfortable, padded handles reduce user fatigue.

Pros

Cons

Echo Gas 2-Stroke Cycle Edger

Homedepot.com

Hot on the heels of the previous Echo, we have another version here, this time a straight-shaft, 25.4cc two-stroke edger that offers power, durability, and maneuverability for quality results around your property.

A contoured aluminum debris shield with open face reduces clogging, and a 2:1 gear reduction allows you to make short work of overgrown grass and tough sections on the lawn edge.

With a balanced weight-to-power ratio, you can be sure of the ability to tackle any edging job without tiring too early. There’s a lot to like here, a hand-held gas lawn edgers that a professional would thank you for.

Pros

Cons

McLane Gas Powered Lawn Edger

Now we seriously move into the realms of professional-grade lawn edgers, with this beast of a machine from McLane.

Backed by a Briggs and Stratton engine, (a company that also makes some seriously badass snowblowers), this offers 3.5 horses of power to tear into any lawn and edge it like a boss.

The nine-inch steel blade can chop at any angle, vertical and horizontal, while the heavy-duty, seven-inch wheels provide unbeatable stability, and the option to easily ride curbs for perfect results every time.

Probably the best four-cycle gas lawn edger available at the moment, if you want a razor-sharp finish that looks like it was done by a pro – then look no further.

Pros

Cons

Brown Products Edge Master Gas Edger

Homedepot.com

It’s likely overkill for most residential properties, but this Brown Products Edge Master is on another level for commercial-grade edging jobs.

And for good reason, as it boasts a Honda engine that can handle industrial-size workloads and the heavy-duty, all-steel construction for the ultimate in durability and performance.

A dual-purpose tensioner lever engages the blade and adjusts depth, offering the ability to tackle a maximum curb height of ten inches. The double Kevlar belt drive system will never let you down, nor will the 10-gauge Domex steel blade.

Cut to a depth of 2.5-inches if you so choose, and do it with power, precision, and aplomb.

Pros

Cons

How to Choose the Best Gas Powered Lawn Edger

There are several factors you should consider before purchasing a new gas-powered lawn edger, so check out the buyer’s guide below for extra tips and advice.

Gas vs Electric

Although this article covers gas-powered machines, it’s worth adding a note on electric edgers too (which we will no doubt cover in full at a later date).

Electric edgers are more suitable for smaller properties, whereas gas machines have been clearly designed with commercial-grade jobs in mind.

If you’re trying to decide between the two, have a think about the size of your property, and in particular the distance you need to cover to achieve lawn edge perfection.

While gas-powered lawn edgers are more expensive, louder, with fuel emissions and maintenance costs, they’re simply unbeatable for the freedom and power you need to cover larger areas.

For a pro finish, you need to use what the pros use.

Two-Cycle vs Four Cycle

As with any gas-powered engine, it comes as either a two-cycle or a four-cycle version.

I won’t go into too much detail about the difference between the technology, but a little about the advantages and disadvantages of each.

A two-cycle engine offers more power but at the expense of noise and higher fuel emissions.

They also have the significant disadvantage of requiring a mix of oil and gas to run, which can be tricky to get right for the uninitiated/first-timers and can add up running costs over time.

Four-cycle engines are more reliable and last longer, although they have more moving parts and will require more maintenance over time.

This also makes them much heavier, which is why for things like the best gas-powered hedge trimmers, you’ll find two-stroke machines are king.

However, four-cycle engines are quieter, and superior in fuel efficiency, as well as offering more overall torque.

The type you choose depends entirely on your personal preferences and your needs.

Note that cycle and stroke are the same thing – just different terms depending on where you come from.

Garden/Yard Size/Type of Job

The engines in all the edgers above come in a variety of sizes – which in turn denotes just how much power the machine is capable of offering.

Obviously, the larger and more powerful the engine, the more capable it is of tackling the real heavy-duty jobs.

Think about the size of your garden and the kind of work you require an edger to do. This should give you an indication on how powerful you need the machine to be.

Or, if you need a gas machine at all.

Types of Lawn Edger

You’ll notice two distinct types of edger in the reviews above – a hand-held variety, and a walk-behind version.

Again, like the size of the engine, choosing the right one depends on the size and type of the job you need it to do.

For commercial-sized workloads, with long, straight edges, it’s probably best to lean towards a walk-behind edger.

Although heavier, the ground is taking the weight and you won’t be nearly as fatigued as if you were carrying the thing.

For small to medium-sized tasks, a hand-held machine might be more preferable. They also have a significant advantage of being highly maneuverable and are more adept at edging curves, or around delicate areas such as flower beds.

However, walk-behind models are more suitable against curbsides, and offer more stability for straddling the concrete and the turf edge for a cleaner, neater cut.

And don’t discount the edgers that can be used with multiple attachments. A lot of string trimmers these days can be switched out and an edger head put in place – so you get a multi-use tool and more bang-to-buck versatility.

Finally, think about storage – a walk-behind machine is going to take up a lot of space in the garage. You certainly can’t hang one on the wall, that’s for sure.

Cost

When it comes to gas-powered machines, they all come at various price points, some affordable, others not so affordable.

For some reason, gas-powered lawn edgers aren’t cheap, and they can start quite pricey even at the “budget” end of the scale.

With that in mind, you need to be pretty serious about edging to pick one up. Buy the best you can afford – so long as it’s suitable for the size and type of job you’re buying it for.

FAQ

Do I need a gas lawn edger?

This depends on the size of your property, or how much effort you’re willing to put into edging, and how important edging is to you in the first place.

Many homeowners aren’t concerned with how the edge of the lawn looks, and mowing will suffice, with a possible trim as a more than suitable finish.

But if it bothers you that your lawn doesn’t look polished, and you have a medium to large-sized garden, then a gas-powered edger is going to get you professional results and is well worth considering.

Alternatively, you could use a pair of these quality garden shears if you’d prefer to trim the grass by hand, or if you already have a well-established lawn edge.

What is the best gas lawn edger?

Again, this depends on the type and size of the job you need to do. It’s subjective and impossible to pick out one edger above the rest unless you completely understand your own environment.

In short, I’d use a hand-held edger for smaller properties, around delicate areas, or if you have curved edges that need maintaining.

Walk-behind edgers are better for large, straight edging jobs, with an emphasis on commercial-grade work.

How much is a gas-powered edger?

Gas-powered edgers are far more expensive than their electric counterparts and can be priced from anywhere between $190 to well over $1000.

As I mentioned previously, you need to be pretty serious about power edging if you’re going to go down this road.

What is the easiest lawn edger to use?

Both types of edgers have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to ease of use. A handheld machine is easy to use right off the bat but can get cumbersome and tiring after a while.

With a walk-behind version, the ground takes the weight, but they can be more tricky to maneuver.

For the most part, though, edgers aren’t the most difficult power tool to use, so long as you have a modicum of common sense, they’re all pretty straightforward, anyway.

Having said that, I would look at the four-stroke versions, as you don’t need to fiddle about mixing oil and gas, and you can get up and running almost right out of the box.

How often should you edge your lawn?

Once a year is the professional advice, and do it towards the end of June, as you’ll find the results stay sharper for longer.

Having said that, if you feel your garden is trying to ruin all your hard work, feel free to edge whenever you think it’s required.

Some gardeners edge every week, while others once a month.  It all depends on how much effort and time you’re willing to put into the practice.

You don’t NEED to cut a new edge every week, that’s for sure – particularly if you’ve done a good job with a decent edger the first time.

But it’s certainly worth giving it a trim every time you mow the lawn (which is different from edging). Find out if a curved or straight trimmer is right for you by following that link.

How do I use a lawn edger?

Edging a lawn with a gas edger isn’t the most complex garden chore you’ll ever do, but it’s worth brushing up on a few tips and tricks to get it right – especially for noobs.

Check out the video below for an informative visual guide.

Is it better to edge or mow first?

It’s always a topic of discussion. In what order should you mow, weed, and edge a lawn?

There’s a saying in the professional community that goes something like this:

Edge, mow, trim, blow.

But that can be interchangeable depending on your lawn, the season, and the conditions. Or, just how you prefer to do it with a tried and tested method.

Some gardeners swap around each stage, some might repeat a stage on more than one occasion.

It’s also worth using one of these pet safe weed killers as well as a weed whacker – to properly destroy nuisance vegetation down to the root, so they won’t come back. Bonus points for being non-toxic and safe around children and animals.

I would suggest trying out each stage for yourself and see what works for you. It’s an interesting and much-debated topic – let me know your garden maintenance regimen in the comments.

How deep should I edge my lawn?

You shouldn’t be going much deeper than two-inches maximum.

Most residential edgers will not cut deeper than that, anyway.

You still need to be aware of buried pipes and cables, and any other obstacles that might be close to the surface.

It’s worth doing a check around the perimeter before getting started, as you don’t want to hit any snags when you’re in full swing.

What’s the difference between an edger and a trimmer?

Glad you asked. For a full, in-depth answer to this very sensible question (as the two are often confused) please, head on over to this article on the difference between an edger and a trimmer.

And why it’s a good idea to have both in your arsenal.

Can I edge wet grass?

Can you edge after rain? This is a common question and the answer is – yes, but it’s not a good idea.

Edging damp or dry-ish grass is feasible, as you’ll get a nice clean edge and the blade will cut the turf easily.

Anything more than that, and you’re risking clogging up the machine, with mud and filth being spread everywhere, and one hell of a cleanup operation as a result.

If you really must, don’t run the edger too deep – stay on the surface as much as possible and you’ll minimize the amount of material you’ll be slinging all over the yard.

Do I need to wear safety gear with an edger?

As with all garden power tools, it’s well worth donning some protective gear during operation.

Gas-powered edgers are noisy things, so make sure you cover those ears.

That blade is spinning fast, isn’t it? Wear long-sleeved clothing and pants, and goggles over the eyes. You never know when or what debris might be launched violently into the air.

And don’t forget a suitable pair of gardening gloves to prevent blistering. Honestly, you won’t know what you did without them.

Summary

Edging your green space can make the difference between a good lawn, and a great one.

And if you have a medium to large-sized property, then choosing the best gas lawn edger is the way to go.

Personally, I like the look of the echo products, as they’re highly rated, affordable, and perfect for the size of my plot.

Let me know which edger you would choose and why.

Happy edging!

Is it good to water grass after mowing?

The answer is it all depends on whether your lawn needs it. If you recently watered your lawn or it rained, it only needs a trim. If you haven’t watered your yard in a while and it hasn’t rained, you can water it after mowing.

Sometimes it isn’t a good idea to water your lawn after mowing as the ideal watering and mowing times can conflict.

Let’s explore everything about watering lawn after mowing to help you maintain a beautiful yard.

Should I Water My Lawn After Mowing?

While you can water the lawn after cutting the grass, it’s not always advisable. Giving your grass a thorough soaking can be a healthy practice, but only if your lawn needs a drink.

Here’s the deal:

The most important thing is to know whether or not your lawn needs watering and to schedule mowing and watering appropriately. You don’t drink water when you’re not thirsty, and this should also apply to your yard.

What are Situations When You Should do it and When Absolutely Not?

While you can water your lawn safely after mowing whenever it needs moisture, you should prepare for this properly.

Why is this important?

There are certain situations and times of day when watering the lawn after mowing can do more harm than good. Here are some cases when you should not water your lawn after mowing and why:

Mowing Late in the Afternoon

During the late afternoon or night, temperatures are low, and your grass may not absorb moisture or dry out properly.

Any excess water will not evaporate but will sit on the grass and encourage turf diseases or fungal growth like mildew or mold that can ruin your lawn.

If you mow late in the evening, it’s best to put off watering until morning or another day.

Mowing in the Middle of a Hot Day

If you mow in the middle of a hot summer day, it’s best not to water your lawn immediately after.

Water will evaporate from the landscape quickly before getting absorbed by the grass, meaning your lawn will not hydrate properly. You may end up wasting a lot of water without any benefit.

You Watered Your Lawn Recently

You don’t need to water the lawn after mowing if you’ve been following a regular watering schedule and your lawn hasn’t dried up.

A damp or overwatered lawn can lead to fungal problems and shallow roots. Allowing the sold to dry slightly promotes a deeper and more robust root system.

So, when should you water your lawn?

The best time for watering lawn after mowing is early in the morning. Morning times between 6 and 8 am are ideal for mowing and watering your lawn.

You can schedule to start your day by mowing the lawn and watering immediately after, or you can mow the previous evening and wake up to water your lawn.

Here’s why:

In the early morning, water lost to the atmosphere by evaporation is negligible and disruption of the water pattern from the wind is low.

It allows the lawn to soak up enough water before the heat sets in, and it also gets to dry off gradually, reducing the chances of diseases that require extended periods of leaf moisture.

What are Signs that the Lawn Needs Watering?

In addition to the above rules on the ideal time to water your lawn after mowing, there are a few things you can look out for to determine whether your lawn needs watering.

These include:

Stress Test

Stress testing your lawn with footprints can help you judge whether your lawn needs watering. If you walk on your lawn and grass blades bounce back right away, you don’t need to water. Healthy and watered grass should spring back like well-moisturized hair and return to its rigid upright shape.

However, if footprints remain on the lawn for a while, the grass is dehydrated and could do with some water. You can quickly assess your lawn’s watering needs by watching your footsteps as you mow the lawn.

The Screwdriver Test

A thin screwdriver pushed into the ground should give you a quick assessment of the moisture condition of your lawn. Simply find a 6-7 inch screwdriver and try to push it into the ground.

If it quickly penetrates the soil, it has sufficient water and doesn’t need watering, but if it’s challenging to push or doesn’t go in at all, you need to water your lawn.

The screwdriver test can also help you determine where watering is needed by pushing it in various locations on your lawn. Adequate soil moisture of around six to eight inches is sufficient to maintain a healthy lawn.

Grass Color

Looking at the color of your grass can also help you determine whether the lawn needs some water. Although it can be a bit challenging to find subtle differences, it’s entirely possible.

Healthy grass is bright green and vibrant, but thirsty grass will look slightly different. Look out for a faded color like dull bluish green.

Lawn Gaps

The soil in your lawn can shrink when dry, indicating that you need to give it some water. Think of it as a sponge that contracts when dry and becomes soft and squishy when given excessive water.

Check around the edges of your lawn and look for gaps between the lawn and the patio, driveway, or pathway. A well-hydrated lawn will not have any gaps, but if they’re present, you need to turn on the hose and give it a good watering.

Can I Water the Lawn Before Mowing?

No. Watering your lawn before is completely inadvisable, similar to mowing during or right after it rains.

Why does this matter?

Wet grass blades can stick together and get caught in your mower. When grass clippings clamp and stick together on the mowing deck, mowing becomes much more challenging and can even damage your mower. It can clog your mower and leave chunks of grass lumps all over the lawn.

Chunks of grass can be unattractive and smother growing grass beneath them or spread weeds and diseases throughout the yard.

The best time to mow your lawn is when it’s dry.

How Often Should I Water My Lawn?

Various things will influence the amount of water your grass needs and how often you should water it. These include the season or weather, soil type, and grass type.

Your lawn will need more water in the summer or warmer seasons but less water in the cooler seasons. Deep watering in the morning is advisable in the hotter seasons to avoid dryness and allow your lawn to survive the scorching sun.

Ensure you gauge the rain in the cooler seasons to determine how much water the grass has received and whether it’s sufficiently hydrated. You can skip a few watering sessions with sufficient rainfall to avoid excessive watering.

You should generally water your lawn less frequently but for extended periods. Watering 2-3 times a week for 30 to 60 minutes is better than watering six times a week for 15 minutes.

Why does this matter?

Such deep watering allows deep and sturdier roots to grow. It also prepares your lawn for drought conditions and makes it more tolerant by allowing water to reach around six inches below the ground level.

A proper monthly lawn care schedule can help you know when and how often to water, fertilize, mow, seed, and remove pests, diseases, and weeds.

How Can I Water My Lawn Easily After Mowing?

Having the proper tools can help make watering your lawn an easy and enjoyable job. Expandable hoses are all the rage today among gardening enthusiasts thanks to their various advantages.

They weigh less than traditional garden hoses and can expand up to three times their average size, so you don’t have to worry about having a large lawn. Expandable hoses can also shrink when not in use, making them easy to store and never get tangled or twisted.

You can easily attach an expandable hose to almost any water outlet, including sprinklers, provided you have the correct connector. There’s a great selection of expandable hoses to choose from, and they’re generally inexpensive, costing anywhere between $20 and $60.

It can help you water your lawn easily after mowing and do other jobs around your property.

Summary

Deciding when to mow and water your lawn can be tricky, but it’s best to mow dry grass and water it after trimming. Always water your lawn in the early morning to allow it to absorb water sufficiently and dry out during the day.

If you have any experience with watering lawn after mowing, feel free to share your insights or thoughts in the comments!

But how do the countries fare when it comes to the battle of the string trimmers?

In the blue and yellow corner, we have Husqvarna from Sweden.

And in the red and white corner, we have Echo from the USA.

Both power tool manufacturers are at the top of their respective games, but who will come out on top in this matchup?

Husqvarna vs Echo trimmer – don’t you dare touch that dial.

The Short Answer on Echo vs Husqvarna Trimmers

If you’re just dying to know the winner before we fully get into detail, then here’s the short answer.

Both companies offer great options, and to be perfectly honest there is no clear winner – each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

In the end, it just comes down to brand loyalty and your own personal preferences.

Having said that, let’s dig a little deeper, and perhaps you can make your own decision about who comes out on top.

And in this particular review, the Echo edges out the Husqvarna – but it’s a close call. Read on to discover what happens.

Note: We’re covering string trimmers in this article, and not hedge trimmers. We might cover an Echo vs Husqvarna hedge trimmer battle at a later date – so watch this space.

But if that’s what you were looking for all along, we have covered the topic of some quality gas-powered hedge trimmers, so check that out.

Husqvarna vs Echo Stand-Off

Echo – The Company

With roots in Japan, the Echo name was officially established in the USA in 1978, when they switched from importing Japanese 2-cycle engines and hand-held products to engineering and manufacturing in Wheeling, Illinois.

They soon developed an extensive power tool range that included chainsaws, string and hedge trimmers, and brush cutters, backed by Japanese craftsmanship.

Today a subsidiary of the Yamabiko Corporation of Japan, Echo builds the majority of its tools in the US from components sourced around the world and at home.

Known for its mutually beneficial relationship with Home Depot since 1994, Echo is an innovative company that continually strives to make their presence known in the market, while attempting to be as environmentally friendly as possible.

Husqvarna – The Company

When it comes to history, it’s indisputable that Husqvarna has Echo beat. In fact, they’ve got a lot of companies beat, as they were first founded over 330 years ago, way back in 1689.

Originally established to build rifles and munitions, they later manufactured everything from sewing machines to wood stoves, and motorcycles to hunting weapons. They were responsible for the first Swedish typewriter in 1895.

These days, however, they’re far more well known for their world-class line of outdoor power tools, including these awesome chainsaws, hedge and string trimmers, zero turn lawnmowers, brush cutters, and lawn tractors.

Several other notable brands, such as Poulan Pro, Gardena, Flymo, and McCulloch are also under the Husqvarna umbrella.

Suffice to say, in this field, they’re one of the most recognizable and successful companies in the world.

Power

With the Husqvarna offering a 27.6 cc engine compared to the Echo’s 21.2, the Swedes come out on top when it comes to power.

Regardless, they both offer excellent power to price ratios, as well as being on the quieter side of string trimmer operation.

Either way, between them they make some of the best commercial weed eaters available, offering some powerful, professional-grade machines for home and garden use.

Build Quality

Both machines offer a premium build quality that is as tough and durable as you would come to expect from market leaders in this class.

Although Husqvarna might have a better reputation globally, Echo are more than a match with the look and feel of their trimmers. And being a US-based company, you might find more positive reviews for Echo machines in the States and Canada.

But both these tools are designed to last, and as such, in this category, there is no clear winner. Thumbs up on both accounts.

Attachments

Both trimmers offer an excellent range of attachments so you can switch up the tool head depending on the job you need to do.

Hedge trimmers, edgers, blowers, cultivators, extension poles, brush cutters and more can seriously improve the bang-for-buck you’re getting out of these versatile tools.

However, when push comes to shove, the Echo edges out the Husqvarna with more attachments available, as well as being compatible with other tools from different companies.

The Husqvarna – while still offering quality attachments – is only compatible with a more limited range of its own making.

But take a look at this article if you’re interested in learning the merits of having a dedicated edger as opposed to simply an attachment, as well as the actual difference between a trimmer and edger.

And don’t forget, that the higher-end, more expensive, commercial-grade trimmers aren’t usually compatible with any other tools. They’re designed for one job and one job only.

In my experience, that’s what the very best tools do.

Price Tag

How much a product costs is often the decider when it comes to which model you’re going to end up with.

Researching the balance between performance and price is the reason why I write these reviews – and the reason you read them.

But in this case, and at the time of writing, the difference in the bottom line between these particular two models is negligible.

Of course, this can change at any time and is at the manufacturer and supplier’s discretion. It’s always worth keeping an eye on the market – even if you’re not currently intending to buy.

You never know when you can snap up a bargain.

Ease of Use

String trimmers stand or fall on how easy they are to use and operate, as by their very nature they require at least some degree of physical fitness.

On the subject of weight, therefore, although designed to be on the lighter side, carrying and using a trimmer for long periods of time can still take it out of you and fatigue will settle in.

In this Husqvarna vs Echo weed eater battle, it is the Swedes who triumph with a machine that comes in at 10.3 lbs, while the Echo is 12.3 lbs.

Both have nicely designed, soft-grip, ergonomic handles, and comfortable, easy-to-access trigger operating systems.

Easy-on switches on both machines ensure a restart is as easy as possible, and you don’t have to keep cord pulling and putting your back out every time.

Safety-wise, it has been noted that the Echo’s guard is a little on the narrow side, whereas the Husqvarna is more than enough.

The trade-off here is that your view of your work area isn’t nearly as interrupted with the Echo, which many professional users prefer at the expense of more protection.

Overall Efficiency

When it comes to the fuel capacity, the Husqvarna is seriously lacking against the Echo, with a poor 11.6 fluid ounce gas tank that doesn’t exactly get glowing compliments.

Surely there was no reason they couldn’t match the Echo’s 14.9 fluid ounce counterpart? It would have made all the difference in getting the job done in one sitting, and reducing the constant need to refuel.

Both machines incorporate their own easy-start technology, with the Husqvarna claiming it improves starting efficiency by 40%, with the Echo a more modest 30%.

With each machine offering a 17-inch cutting swath, there’s zero difference when it comes to how much vegetation you can cut with one pass, so it’s a clear tie in this department.

Finally, the rivals go head-to-head on the bump-feed system, in which they both get excellent marks for efficient and fast line feed when you need it most.

For speedy cuts and getting the job done on time, there’s little difference here.

Winner

You’ve backed me into a corner and I need to declare an overall winner in the Echo vs Husqvarna string trimmer match up.

I must admit, in writing this review, my allegiances have alternated several times, sometimes leaning one way, and sometimes the other. It’s been that close.

That being said, in the end, I feel that, although it offers a little less power and is heavier than its rival, the Echo is my choice as the overall winner.

The sheer number of attachments, larger gas tank, and general build quality just edges it over the line by a nose.

However, as a brand, I’m a big Husqvarna fan, so I’ll leave it up to you to decide which is the best for your needs.

Sample Reviews

Note that I chose two, comparable trimmers that were very close in performance and specifications – so the playing field was as even as possible.

Bear in mind, like all power-tool companies, they have a wide range of different machines with varying specifications.

Even if one model beats out another, it might not necessarily mean that brand is the overall winner.

Husqvarna Gas String Trimmer

Here we have Husqvarna’s 27.6 cc, two-stroke straight shaft string trimmer. It features Smart-Start technology to get you off and running as fast as possible, with an easy-release, Tap ‘N Go bump feed head that offers a quick-release line that will keep you smoothly in business throughout the task at hand. The head is also designed for easy line replacement, so you should check out these excellent trimmer lines when you run out. The 129LK has a 17-inch cutting swath, a translucent fuel tank to help you monitor the fuel level, and is fully attachment capable with five extra tools to save you time, space, and money around your property. (Attachments sold separately.)

Pros

Cons

Echo Gas 2-Stroke Cycle Trimmer

Homedepot.com

Our Echo example is this 21.2 CC two-stroke straight shaft trimmer that is also compatible with several attachments for various jobs around your property. It features the Echo i-30 start system for easy starts and a tool-less coupler for switching out different attachments with minimum fuss.

The speed-feed trimmer head reloads in seconds without the need to take anything apart, and an engine vibration reduction system keeps the shakes down during operation – which is ideal if you need to keep working for longer periods. It cuts a 17-inch swath and has a fully adjustable, cushioned handle for added control and comfort.

Pros

Cons

FAQs

Which is better, Echo or Husqvarna trimmer?

In this review, I’ve gone with the Echo as the overall winner.

Having said that, the call was made based solely on these two models going head-to-head.

Overall, I stand by the original statement that it depends on your personal preference, as well as what you need the machine to do, and how much you’re willing to spend on it.

What is the best string trimmer on the market?

Again, this is a subjective question and can vary from person to person. There is no clear winner when it comes to the best string trimmer available today.

Other brands are also in play, including DeWalt, Ryobi, Stihl, Craftsman, Black and Decker, and Remington, to name just a few.

Everyone has their favorites, and it’s up to you to discover yours.

Are Echo trimmers worth the money?

Yes, they are.

While at this time they might not quite have the reputation as more well-known or used brands such as Husqvarna, DeWalt, and Stihl; Echo trimmers are every bit as good and can more than hold their own in this field.

Constantly improving, these machines are here to stay, especially when it comes to value for money, customer service, parts and maintenance.

What is the best gas trimmer to buy?

The list of quality gas-powered trimmers is as long as your arm – and every major power tool company has their own versions all vying to take the crown.

Take a look at this in-depth and extensive article on the best commercial weed eaters for a wide selection of the finest gas-powered string trimmers available on the market today.

It’s up to you to decide which is the best – which you might not be able to do until you’ve sampled them all!

Are Echo trimmers any good?

Yes. Next question.

As with any power tool, just make sure you’re purchasing the right piece of equipment for the job – and you should get an excellent experience all round.

What company makes Echo trimmers?

Echo is a US-based company that is under the umbrella of the Yamabiko Corporation of Japan.

They build products in the USA from materials and components sourced from around the world.

Where are Husqvarna trimmers made?

Although based out of Sweden, Husqvarna has factories and subsidiaries all over the world, and both parts and labor might come from any number of these locations, including the USA, Germany, and Brazil.

If you’re looking for the origin country of a specific trimmer, you can either contact the company directly or check the specifications of the machine somewhere on the body.

Which Echo trimmer is best?

Again, that’s a subjective question, and it depends on the type of work you need the trimmer for.

Try this awesome product selector guide from Echo that will help you narrow down your search for the right machine, and then you can decide which model is best for you and your needs.

Which is better: Stihl, Echo, or Husqvarna Trimmers?

German company Stihl also manufactures some of the best trimmers and chainsaws in the world.

Check out the entertaining video below for one man’s observations on all three brands.

Summary

The dust has settled, hands have been shaken, and a victor declared.

But while the USA has just pipped Sweden in this particular Husqvarna vs Echo trimmer match-up, the war is far from over.

Both companies will continue to do battle, alongside many other top power tool brands. And speaking of, check out this article for an awesome Cub Cadet, John Deere, Husqvarna dust-up.

And let me know in the comments which trimmer you would prefer and why – or which brand is your personal favorite.

Happy trimming!

Is a zero-turn mower worth your money? What are the advantages of zero-turn mowers? What are the disadvantages of zero-turn mowers?

A zero-turn mower is a top-tier machine that can tackle most properties quickly and effectively. It gives you superior turning ability, faster mowing times, maneuverability, more comfort, and ease of use, plus reduced grass damage and soil compaction.

But like all good things, there are various disadvantages of zero-turn mowers to consider.

Let’s explore the pros and cons of zero-turn mowers to help determine whether it’s a good choice for your lawn.

What are the Advantages of Zero Turn Mowers?

Maneuverability

Better maneuverability can increase your mowing efficiency, especially if you have flower beds, bushes, trees, or rocks on your lawn. Zero-turn mowers give you exceptional maneuverability, making it easy to get close and trim around hard-to-reach spots.

How do zero-turn mowers maneuver?

Zero-turn mowers have a zero-turning radius, allowing you to turn them 180 degrees for more efficient cuts. You can easily trim around objects without causing damage or using additional equipment and turn directions on a dime without leaving untrimmed grass behind.

Fast Mowing Time

Zero-turn mowers operate at high speeds, which significantly reduces mowing time. They feature faster ground speeds than other mowers and are equipped with a low center of gravity for improved balance and safety.

Here’s the deal.

Zero-turn mowers feature standard speeds of between 5 to 8 mph, with some reaching up to 15 mph. They’re designed to mow your lawn 50% faster than other mowers. High speeds combined with improved direction shifting and turn around allow you to finish mowing your yard in no time.

Low Fuel Consumption

Zero-turn mowers feature innovative engines that improve energy efficiency. Improved efficiency cuts your lawn care time in half, reducing fuel consumption and saving on costs.

Why is this important?

By burning less fuel to carry out the same task as other mowers, you spend a lot less and reduce localized carbon emissions and hazardous air pollutants. This makes zero-turn mowers cleaner and greener, helping protect the environment and your health.

Wide Selection

With zero turn mowers, you’ll be spoiled for choice. They come in a wide range of models of different varieties. You can choose deck sizes from a standard 40 inches and up, ensuring enough coverage for large projects and flexibility for tighter areas.

And that’s not all.

Some of the best zero-turn mowers can be customized to fit your needs and budget. They offer more adaptability than single-use mowers, eliminating the need to buy and maintain other machinery. Accessories like mulching kits, collection systems, dethatchers, fertilizer spreaders, and snowplows are also available.

A Beautiful Lawn

A zero-turn mower can make your vision real if you want your lawn to look like a golf course. You can quickly achieve stripes on your lawn and get natural mulching that promotes thicker, healthier grass growth.

How does this benefit you?

You can get the green lawn you want without buying multiple bags of fertilizer. Zero-turn mowers feature high-speed blades that grind grass tips and leaves into finer mulch than other mowers. You can add a mulch baffling kit to increase the natural mulching ability of the zero-turn mower.

Durability

High speed, maneuverability, and efficiency reduce the time you need to mow your lawn, meaning less use for your lawnmower, which increases durability.

Why is this important?

Limiting the number of hours put on your mower benefits your wallet and the environment. You’ll spend less on fuel and maintenance costs while reducing localized emissions.

Increased Comfort

A zero-turn mower is an excellent choice if you want a comfortable mowing experience. A power steering feature in most models ensures you’re not wrestling the steering wheel to get where you need to go.

The best zero-turn mowers feature weight-adjusting high-backed seats with armrests, foam-padded handgrips, and vibration dampeners.

How does this benefit you?

The build quality of a mower decreases impact and strain on your back, knees, and legs. An ergonomic design and improved steering provide better direction and speed control, meaning you don’t have to work as hard on any terrain.

So Much Fun

Buying a zero-turn is like owning a go-kart with a 26-horsepower engine (the fastest go-karts are 20hp) that can turn on the spot. The more horsepower you have, the faster it goes.

Choose a zero-turn mower with the highest horsepower you can afford but remember to choose the correct deck and something you’re comfortable controlling.

What are the Disadvantages of Zero Turn Mowers?

Costly

Zero-turn mowers are sports cars of the mowing world and don’t come cheap. They’re more expensive than regular or lawn-tractor mowers, and you may have to spend over $3,000 for a residential mower. Check out this article for some of the best budget-friendly zero-turn mowers.

Not Suitable for Hills and Slopes

Zero-turns are lighter in the front than they are in the back. They’re notorious for having poor traction and struggling with slopes. Smaller zero-turns tend to ‘pop a wheelie going uphill. That’s why the roll bar is situated behind the driver.

Zero-turn mowers are unsuitable for slopes steeper than 10 to 15 degrees and can quickly get imbalanced and lose control. However, with some of the best zero-turn mowers for hills and a few crucial techniques, you can safely mow large, hilly areas.

Features to Look Out for in the Best Zero Turn Mowers

Zero-turns come in residential, professional (commercial), and semi-pro models, depending on the size of your estate.

Apart from the above pros and cons of zero-turn mowers, you need to conder the following factors when making your purchase:

Wheels

The bigger, the better.

At first glance, the zero-turn might be mistaken for a tractor mower. Whereas tractor mowers have two big drive wheels at the back and two smaller wheels for steering up front, Zero-turns have two big wheels at the back and two castor wheels at the front.

Bigger wheels in the back mean more traction and a faster ground speed. Oversized castors mean that the zero-turn will not get stuck in the mud.

Remember that the left and right lap bars are the throttles for the rear drive wheels, which are powered independently. To turn right, you push the left bar forward and the right bar back. The difference in speed between the drive wheels is what changes your direction.

Suspension

If your property is more like four acres, you’ll be riding around on the uneven ground for a couple of hours at least, bouncing up and down with your lower back taking the strain.

Do yourself a favor and buy the model with the best suspension. Your spine will thank you for it.

A Sun Canopy

You could wear an Aussie slouch hat like Dennis Hopper in Easy Rider while buzzing around, but a sun canopy is better. Make sure it’s made of durable plastic, not a fabric that rots in the sun and falls apart.

Armrests

After a couple of hours of hanging onto the handlebars, your arms will feel like they’ve been injected with liquid cement. You need somewhere to put your elbows to take the weight off.

Warranty

Most models come with a two-year, but some come with a three-year residential warranty.

Ergonomics

Zero-turns are all about ergonomics. Merriam-Webster defines ergonomics as an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely.

When you first sit down in one, these are the questions you should ask yourself: Is everything at my fingertips? Can I see how much fuel is left in the tank? Can I see if the battery is fully charged?

When you’re out there comparing models, and the salesman is demonstrating features, ask him to show you how the oil is changed. You shouldn’t have to change the oil frequently, but it should be accessible without unscrewing bolts and removing panels.

The same goes for the air filter. Cleaning the air filter should take two minutes, not thirty, and should be undertaken every time the mower is taken out before you start mowing.

The Battery

It must be readily accessible. If you don’t put it on trickle charge for the winter, come summer, you will have a dead battery.

When you’re done mowing, the belts and spindles need to be cleaned as easily as flipping open the footplate.

The deck pedal raises and lowers the cutting blades. It can be locked at one height, or it can also be adjusted on the move by pressing down on the deck pedal. So it stands to reason that you want a stamped metal pedal with a raised tread that grips the sole of your shoe and doesn’t slip as you raise and lower your foot.

And Finally.

Fit and finish

Take a look at the mower’s appearance, the quality of its parts, its overall design, the way everything fits together, and the attention to detail. It should tell you all you need to know about brand commitment. Is it just one more mass-produced item to fill out their catalog, or do they care passionately about making something one-of-a-kind and excellent?

An excellent example of this is the Toro Titan Max. A five-minute inspection is all it takes to realize that they’ve gone out of their way to think of everything and produce a genuinely exemplary, superior machine.

Consider the Learning Curve

Find someone with a zero-turn who will let you take it for a spin. But be careful.

Here are some general rules to follow in different situations:

Don’t attempt an incline of more than 10 degrees

Lawn-care professionals can take their zero-turns up 40-degree gradients only after years of experience and multiple mishaps.

Always mow up, not down, a slope

You should always be facing up the hill when mowing on a gradient. It’s easy to lose control mowing downhill. This is not to say that it can’t be done: some strategies make it possible but are beyond this article’s purview.

Remember that you might escape undamaged when your zero-turn tips over, but the fence or wall or frail little gardening shed at the bottom of the hill won’t. A half-ton of out-of-control machinery traveling at speed does more than just leave a dent.

Watch and learn

If your property has a lot of ups and downs, if slopes are unavoidable, educate yourself. There is a ton of YouTube on negotiating slopes.

When changing direction, keep both drives (rear) wheels turning

If you keep one lap bar in the neutral position while accelerating with the other, one drive wheel will stay locked in place while the other advances.

The upshot is that the stationary wheel will pivot on the spot and tear a great, big, gaping hole in the grass.

Survey the terrain before you mow

If the ground is uneven and the grass is long, you can avoid scalping some places while leaving other areas too long by taking a few minutes to walk around.

Make a mental note of where the soil has fallen away, where the terrain is the roughest, and the difference in height between the low and high areas, then mow accordingly, using the deck pedal to raise and lower the blades.

Think long-term

One possibility you might want to consider is not mowing everything down to one height right away. Instead, trim progressively lower by half an inch every couple of days for a week or two.

This way, the cut grass is effectively mulched, fertilizing your lawn, and cut grass is absolutely the best fertilizer. A bonus is that when blades of cut grass are that short, they don’t clump and smother the grass underneath by denying them sunlight.

Should I Get a Zero Turn Mower?

A zero-turn mower is a worthwhile investment if:

FAQs

How long should a zero-turn mower last?

The average lifespan is ten years, but since everything on the mower can be replaced, it can last almost indefinitely.

Which is better, a zero-turn or a tractor?

You must consider the pros and cons of zero-turn mowers vs. tractors based on your unique needs and resources.

Is a zero-turn mower good on hills?

Zero-turn mowers are unsuitable for hills, but with experience and expertise, you can manage, provided you mow straight up and straight down and proceed with caution.

Can zero-turn mowers tip over?

Yes. You can tip over if you mow on wet terrain or in a diagonal direction across a slope.

What size zero turn do I need?

The size you need depends on the size of the area you plan on mowing. For anything over six acres, a Commercial model is preferred. A Residential model can handle a half-acre. Anything in-between is categorized as Semi-professional.

As spring rolls around, the first things to pop up in your garden are often dandelions, and whilst you may only have a few, they’re still super annoying when you’re trying to maintain that perfect golf course-style lawn.

If you hate these pesky little weeds ruining the aesthetic you’re aiming for, then read on to find out the best tips and tricks for ridding your lawn of dandelions naturally.

Why is it Important to Remove the Dandelions From Your Lawn?

Firstly, let’s just clarify that aside from noxious weeds, many weeds are actually just opportunistic herbs that are so good at growing in your garden that they start to take over.

Dandelions are a great example of this.

They don’t cause any harm per se, and are actually a valuable part of the ecosystem, providing food for pollinators. But, they are very good at setting up shop and not leaving. So, it’s understandable that if golf course-style grass is what you’re after, dandelions are not welcome.

The issue with dandelions is that they have a really long, sturdy root. These roots are known as ‘taproots’ and are usually around 6-8” deep in established plants. Whilst you may be able to pull out the dandelion from the surface, if any of this root remains it can easily sprout a new plant.

In addition to this, you have the seeds.

Ah the good ol’ fluffy dandelion seeds that as kids we all used to naively blow… What we didn’t realize then, was that these seeds can travel long distances.

All of this considered, I think it’s safe to say that these bad boys are hard to stop!

Once you notice that you have dandelions popping up in your lawn, it is best to remove them as soon as possible. It is much easier to do this while they are in small quantities than when they’re all over your lawn.

What is the Best Way to Get Rid of Dandelions?

There are many ways to get rid of dandelions, ranging from natural methods to chemical methods, though the latter are best avoided.

But what is the BEST way to get rid of dandelions for good?

Read on to discover the top natural methods that you can use to protect your lawn from dandelions.

Manual Removal

As mentioned above, hand pulling may only serve as a temporary fix if you don’t succeed in removing the whole tap root.

But if you do it right, manual removal is the best way to remove dandelions for good, with no negative consequences for the surrounding soil or lawn.

It all comes down to technique and time of year. Dandelions are perennials that go dormant in winter and then return voraciously in spring.

Pulling up dandelions in spring guarantees the highest chance of success.

The reason for this, is that new seedlings that are sprouting won’t have had a chance to grow really deep tap roots, so they’ll be easier to remove in their entirety.

Plants growing from existing tap roots will be a little harder, but digging them up in the spring before they have spread their seeds is still the best course of action.

Make sure that the soil is damp before you start digging, as this will loosen the soil around the roots, making it easier for you to pull them out.

You can also purchase weed grubbers specifically designed to make removing the whole tap root easier. Alternatively, a garden fork is also an effective option.

The aim is to use the tool to loosen the soil from around the tap root so that it is easy to remove the whole thing in one go. If you notice that the bottom of the tap root appears to have snapped off, you have the option of waiting for the plant to regrow and trying the hand pulling method again, or digging a small hole in the ground to remove the missing piece.

Strategic Mowing

One of the best ways to manage weeds in your lawn is actually to support healthy grass growth and leave no room for weeds to appear. But reducing the seed load, or weed bank, of your property goes hand in hand with this.

One of the best ways of doing this is to prevent weeds from reaching their flowering stage, and the easiest way of doing this is mowing with the catcher on.

If you mow your lawn before the dandelions have had a chance to flower, and mow often enough that none of them gets a chance to spread their seeds, the number of dandelions on your lawn will reduce over time.

In early spring, while new dandelion seedlings are popping up, leaving your grass a little longer will shade out the seedlings, starving them of light and nutrients. You can (and should) still mow your lawn, just leave the mower on its highest setting.

Come late spring, when dandelions are flowering, lower your mowing height and mow frequently. Dandelions do not cope with being mowed over repeatedly and will die. (Who knew managing dandelions could be so simple?!)

Mowing short and often through the warm months is not strictly speaking best practice for grass health, as grass benefits from being a little longer when water is sparse. But mowing regularly is one of the best natural ways of getting rid of dandelions from your lawn.

You can learn more about mowing for weed control here.

Overseeding

If you don’t already have a thick, lush lawn, and you have some bare patches or weeds appearing, fixing this is one of the best ways of managing dandelions.

Overseeding a weedy or patchy lawn is surprisingly effective at reducing the number of weeds present.

This article explains how to do it in more detail. But, in a nutshell, you’re spreading a thin layer of topsoil and compost mixed with lawn seed, over your lawn and waiting for the magic to happen.

If you want some expert tips on how to keep your grass green and healthy once you’ve overseeded, read my article. I also have a lawn care calendar that could make your life a lot easier.

Check Your Soil pH

If you’ve been doing everything right to maintain a healthy lawn but dandelions are still happily making themselves at home, check the pH of your soil.

Dandelions like a pH around 7, but most grasses prefer a slightly more acidic environment.

Adding some soil amendments to increase the acidity of your soil might be all that is needed.

Boiling Water

Applying boiling water to dandelions is an option if you have a few to get rid of and prefer not to try and dig them up.

Boiling water will kill the vegetation that is above the ground, though you will need to repeat the process a few times before the tap root succumbs. If you repeatedly kill any vegetation that is above ground, the tap root will eventually run out of energy, as the plant won’t have been able to photosynthesize.

Just be careful though, as this will also kill surrounding plants and grass so be sure to aim for the dandelion only!

Salt

Using salt as a weed killer is a little controversial. There are some who are concerned about its effect on soil health and don’t recommend its use.

This is a fair point. However, if the alternative is a chemical herbicide which is most definitely toxic, I’d be reaching for the salt first.

Salt, when used in small quantities and carefully applied, can be an excellent dandelion killer. The main thing to be aware of is that it will take time for grass to grow back in the same spot.

You can help things along by dousing the area with more water after the dandelion has died, and then re-seeding the patch with some fresh topsoil and grass seed.

Vinegar

Vinegar is another natural option that gets mixed reviews for the same reason as salt.

Using household vinegar likely wouldn’t be strong enough to kill a dandelion’s taproot. We’re talking 20% acid here, which would most definitely kill any surrounding grass as well.

But, again, if the alternative is a herbicide like Roundup, with numerous known and unknown consequences for human, animal and environmental health, I’d be reaching for the vinegar first.

Worst case scenario you end up with a dead patch of grass that needs a re-seeding with some fresh topsoil. But that would happen with Roundup anyway.

Use a Weed Burner or a Torch

Weed burners and torches are a popular method for ridding your garden of weeds. They also have the advantage of not harming the soil in any way.

However, like the boiling water method, you need to be careful to avoid surrounding vegetation. This is fiddly with small plants like dandelions, but easier if you’re targeting dandelions that are growing in places like your driveway or garden path.

Shop-Bought Organic Weed Killers

Lastly, there are also some great organic weed killers on the market that are safe and effective. Some use essential oils, some fatty acids.

There is a range to choose from, and the range is getting bigger as more people become aware of the harmful side effects of synthetic chemical formulations.

There are a few other ways to kill weeds naturally that could be worth checking out too.

If you’re concerned about your pets, all of the methods listed above are perfectly safe. I also have an article on pet-safe weed killers that is worth a read if you have furry friends at home.

Other than your garden, dandelions can pop up on your driveway and between the cracks of paths. The boiling water and salt method is the easiest and safest method as you don’t have to worry about killing surrounding plants. But I also have an article on the best weed killers for driveways as a last resort.

An Alternative Approach

Last but not least, if getting rid of dandelions is too hard, you could always embrace them!

For centuries, dandelions have been used in herbal medicines and tasty infusions. Today, they are sold as an expensive addition to salads as the whole plant is edible!

Roasted dandelion root makes for a delicious coffee-like drink, similar to the chicory coffee alternatives you may have seen in the shops (but with abundant health benefits – dandelion greens are known for their liver and kidney cleansing properties).

Other than this, their flowers are great for bees!

Dandelions are some of the earliest spring flowers to bloom and provide bees and other pollinating insects with food.

While your lawn wouldn’t be rocking the pristine golf-course look, you could be happy in the knowledge that you are supporting the local ecosystem and saving yourself a ton of work (and money).

Summary

To wrap it up, dandelions can be a pain and we dread the season that they sprout in as it usually means more yard work!

There are so many ways in which you can get rid of them for good so just pick your choice! Herbicides are definitely easier, and some can be more effective than natural methods, however, some may choose to avoid the chemicals and try the holistic way – both are a great option!

If you know any other ways to kill dandelions or even weeds in general, share them below I would love to hear your experiences and how you combat the weed issue!

But it’s not.

All grasses have different qualities that make them advantageous in different environments which makes it hard to choose the perfect one for your garden.

With all the wide varieties of grasses you can choose from, you’re probably lost. You do your research, and you stumble across Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass and think “which one is better?”.

That’s where I can help, if you want to know which grass is the better choice between Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass then you’ve come to the right place, read on to discover the verdict!

Key Differences Between Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass

Just like I said before, you might think that all types of grass are more or less identical.

So before we go into detail, here are the main differences when it comes to Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass:

Kentucky Bluegrass

First off, Kentucky Bluegrass is a funny name since it neither came from Kentucky and the grass is actually green, not blue. But put that aside and Kentucky Bluegrass is still the most popular choice of turf across America, and there’s a reason why.

This grass type has a soft and velvety texture and creates a lush and dense turf that can stay healthy for pretty much the majority of the year. Its deep-green color is a major appeal factor when people choose this grass because let’s be real, who doesn’t want a beautiful green lawn?

It’s America’s favorite cool-season grass and has been for ages.

Kentucky Bluegrass is native to Asia and Europe where it flourished in the cooler climates. It was then later introduced to America during early settlement and has since been a steady favorite for many homeowners.

This grass is grown from seed and usually comes in a mixed seed variant due to its slow growing process that sometimes needs support from other – fast-growing – grasses. However, regardless of its slow growth rate, Kentucky Bluegrass is sturdy and highly capable of fast recovery when damaged.

Pros of Kentucky Bluegrass

Cons of Kentucky Bluegrass

Characteristics, Growing Conditions and Growing Conditions

Kentucky Bluegrass is very attractive when it comes to lawns. Its natural dark-green shade is beautiful and has a somewhat blue tint in some lightings, hence the name.

What makes this grass so popular?

Many homeowners want peace of mind when it comes to their gardens, I know I do, and Kentucky Bluegrass is just that – peaceful.

This grass creates a sturdy turf that can withstand heavily cold weather as well as foot traffic. It has a rapid recovery rate as well in the event that it does get damaged.

Kentucky Bluegrass has a shallow root system and whilst it can grow well in full sun it has a medium tolerance to drought so when it receives less water than normal it can turn brown and go dormant. It is better suited to areas of cool weather with humidity and crisp winters where it can receive the appropriate water it needs to survive.

Unlike grasses that grow in bunches, Kentucky Bluegrass grows through underground stems called rhizomes which form a dense thick sod. This growth habit is similar to Bermuda grass and allows it to recuperate quickly from damage.

Aggression and Invasiveness

Despite the slow germination of this grass, once established it can spread quickly via the rhizomes. This rhizome production can stifle out other plant species by crowding them out.

Kentucky Bluegrass has the capability to become weedy if not managed correctly, so whilst it is the favorite grass of America it still does require some attention in order to maintain its pristine look.

Planting and Lawn Care

Kentucky Bluegrass is pretty good in terms of lawn care in that it doesn’t have any extra special needs and wants – your basic lawn care routine is a good place to start.

Whilst it can be maintained using regular lawn care tools, some extra tips and tricks can be applied to promote a healthier and stronger lawn.

Fertilization needs to be done around every month and with Kentucky Bluegrass, choosing a fertilizer with a high nitrogen content will prove to give you the best results.

On top of this, Kentucky Bluegrass prefers to live in acidic soils so if you notice that your grass has yellow patches, the soil is probably too acidic. If your soil is too acidic, give your grass a dose of iron supplement and it should regulate back to alkaline conditions.

Mowing your Kentucky grass should be done once a week and mowed at a higher level than other grasses so raising your lawnmower’s deck between 8 and 12cm is best for Kentucky Bluegrass.

Moreover, watering your lawn is important. To keep this grass looking green and healthy it does need a steady and reliable source of water as when exposed to drought it can turn a brown or yellow color.

Price of Kentucky Bluegrass

This grass is actually relatively cheap, costing around $0.35 to $0.40 per square foot and $160 to $180 per pallet.

The variation in cost depends on the variation of grass as some are cheaper than others.

Perennial Ryegrass

Perennial Ryegrass is a popular choice in America for areas in the coastal region due to its versatile pH range in which it can grow, thriving in both alkaline and acidic conditions.

Perennial Ryegrass really doesn’t get the proper recognition that it needs. This grass is widely known as being used as a filler grass in areas such as in the southern states of America where homeowners want green grass all year long. Ryegrass grows in the cooler seasons and hence makes a great additive to warm season grasses when they go dormant.

But Perennial Ryegrass is more than just a filler grass, it can shine on its own too.

When grown independently, Ryegrass has a dark green blade color and is hardy as well as low maintenance. This grass has standalone qualities such as pest and disease resistance so you can save time in managing it!

The reason this grass is commonly used in combination with other grasses is due to its speedy germination.

And I mean speedy.

It takes about 5 days for Ryegrass to germinate, which is much faster than many of the grasses that it accompanies such as Kentucky Ryegrass which gas a germination time of up to two weeks!

Pros of Perennial Ryegrass

Cons of Perennial Ryegrass

Characteristics, Growing Conditions and Appearance

Perennial Ryegrass is a cool season variant of the grass plant, so it is best used in regions of low temperatures. It is used as a filler for warm season grasses suck as Zoysia and Bermuda where they might struggle to grow.

It has a fast germination rate which means it can act as a temporary grass when mixed with slower growing grasses such as Kentucky Bluegrass whilst they slowly germinate.

Unlike many grasses, Perennial Ryegrass doesn’t grow through stolons or rhizomes but primarily through seed meaning it can’t really spread on its own but grows in clumps, similar to Fescue grass.

Like I said earlier, this grass is certainly not fussy about soil type, in fact it can grow and adapt to changing soil environments such as changes in fertility and pH.

In appearance, Perennial Ryegrass has a deep green color, its appearance is actually very similar to Kentucky Bluegrass the only thing separating it is the leaf shape and texture, ryegrass being softer.

Aggression and Invasiveness of Perennial Ryegrass

Since Perennial Ryegrass doesn’t grow or spread through stolons or rhizomes like other grasses, it can only be established through seed which basically reduced its invasiveness hugely!

Ryegrass is not aggressive in nature, however, does have the ability to out grow and suffocate weeds due to it being allelopathic which means it releases a chemical that kills weeds and grows over them.

Planting and Lawn Care

Perennial Ryegrass is grown and established through seed so in order for it to spread it requires seeding which prevents it from becoming invasive.

When looking after and managing ryegrass, a month-to-month maintenance schedule is the best approach in that it needs a variation of care based on the season.

Mowing needs to be done regularly and at a height of 2” to 2.5” to avoid the clumps being too obvious.

For some extra lawn mowing tips that you can use to improve your mowing game, read my article here!

On top of regular mowing, Perennial Ryegrass also requires proper watering and fertilization.

Correct water amounts are important for this grass as it has shallow roots that struggle to hold onto water which makes it rather sensitive to drought – the best approach is to provide your Ryegrass lawn with regular irrigation.

Bi-monthly fertilization is best during the growing periods and the can be reduced to once a month once the grass is properly established. This grass loves nitrogen so be sure to choose one with a high nitrogen content.

Price of Perennial Ryegrass

Perennial Ryegrass isn’t expensive but is more expensive than Kentucky Ryegrass at a price of $0.35 to $0.65 per square foot and $160 to $295 per pallet, the price differing in terms of species.

Which One is Better – Kentucky Bluegrass or Perennial Ryegrass?

As always, it is your decision, and it really is down to your needs and wants and what you desire in a garden.

In my opinion, when comparing the ease and usability of each, Kentucky Bluegrass would be my choice of grass for my garden.

It’s America’s favorite for a reason!

Kentucky Bluegrass just appeals to me due to its low maintenance and weather tolerance. It makes for a beautiful lawn in winter and is great for homeowners that entertain a lot due to its heavy foot traffic tolerance.

Summary

That’s it folks, now you know the difference between Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass, plus which one is better!

Obviously, preference is down to the user and is judged in terms of their needs and wants.

So, tell me, which one do you prefer and why? I would love to know!

Mowing season.

Away go the snowblowers, out come the lawnmowers.

And if you’re in the market for a new machine, there’s so many to choose from, it can cause a bit of a headache.

In this article, we’ll be taking a look at rotary vs hover mowers, and exploring their advantages and disadvantages head-to-head.

Hopefully, by the end of it, you’ll know which version is right for you.

Or, you could just get one of these awesome riding lawnmowers instead.

Hover Mowers vs Rotary Mowers – Too Long, Didn’t Read

I get it – you’re in a rush. You want to just cut to the chase and be told the answer without the waffle, so here it is.

Hover mowers are ideal for smaller yards and gardens, where you might have hilly terrain or many obstacles to negotiate.

Rotary mowers are more suitable for small to medium-sized areas, for just about everything else.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each in more detail, for anyone who would like to stick around.

Rotary Mowers

Easily the most common lawnmower type on the market, there are hundreds of models to choose from.

Identified by a protective deck that covers a spinning blade, they can be gas, corded electric, or battery-powered machines.

Rotary mowers will have four wheels that sit on the surface, so you can push the mower along in the direction you want to cut.

They might also be self-propelled, with a drive system that helps move the mower along and helps reduce operator fatigue.

Craftsman V60 3-in-1 Cordless Lawn Mower

I’m including this lawnmower as a rotary example for a couple of reasons. One, because it’s awesome, and two, because I own it.

I’ve just this moment finished preparing it for another season, juicing the powerful battery that does just under 1/4 acre on a single charge.

It’s quiet, economical, and easy-to-use, with three-in-one bagging, mulching, and side discharge capabilities. I fully expect to see the neighbors pick up the same one or similar very soon.

Rotary Mower Advantages

Mulching, bagging, and side discharge – Most rotary mowers these days are of a three-in-one design that allows you to make the choice between mulching, bagging, or side discharge your grass clippings.

Having these options offers you more control over what happens to yard waste, which can seriously benefit you and your lawn.

At YardThyme, we’re particularly fond of putting our clippings back to work, and you can check out this article on the benefits of mulching for more information.

Lawn aesthetic – Additionally, with a rotary mower you have more control when it comes to your overall lawn aesthetic.

This is for anyone who dreams of having a striped lawn like a sports field. That’s a feature that a hover mower simply doesn’t have in its locker.

And if you’re dying to learn the technique, check out this article on how to stripe your lawn.

Choice – Being the most common type of lawnmower, there’s a wealth of rotary mower choice out there – so pretty much anyone can find the right tool for the job.

Ease of use – It’s not rocket science to use a rotary mower. The learning curve is pretty straight, and you’ll pretty much be out there mowing in no time.

Adjustable height – Most good rotary mowers come with a height adjustment level, so you can set the cutting height exactly where you want it while you’re on the go.

Able to handle tall grass – If you’ve neglected to mow the lawn for a couple of weeks – or maybe you’ve returned from vacation to find a jungle – a quality rotary mower should be able to handle it.

Rotary Mower Disadvantages

Limited maneuverability – Rotary mowers are somewhat limited when it comes to the direction they can go in. With the wheels placed the way they are, forwards and backwards are pretty much your lot.

You can obviously turn with a rotary lawnmower, but it can be cumbersome and challenging – particularly in hard-to-reach areas, around tight corners, or when negotiating obstacles.

Unless, of course, you’re using one of these incredible zero turn mowers that can swivel on a dime – but your yard will need to be pretty huge for this kind of machine.

Some assembly required – Rotary mowers nearly always need putting together out of the box in some form or another – and not everyone is comfortable doing so.

Especially if the instructions appear to be in Latin, and/or you’re not that confident with DIY.

Track marks – Rotary mower wheels will cause track marks across your lawn – with heavier, gas-powered machines being the main culprits.

Sure, they will fade in time, but some people don’t like seeing them at all. Plus, they can cause damage when going over new seed, or anywhere you’re encouraging the grass to grow.

Hover Mowers

Technically speaking, hover mowers are still rotary mowers – they have a blade that spins around at high speed in order to cut the grass.

The main difference is that they don’t have any wheels.

A hover mower works by creating a cushion of air, so it literally “hovers” over the surface of your lawn.

They are more commonly available as corded electric models, although there are plenty of gas-powered versions if that’s what you prefer.

At the time of writing, it seems there are no battery-powered hover mowers currently available. Quick – there’s a gap in the market!

As a side note, hover mowers are actually much more popular in the UK.

This is largely thanks to iconic British brand Flymo developing the technology, as well as the generally smaller yards and gardens they have on the other side of the pond.

California Trimmer Gas Hover Lawn Mower

Homedepot.com

Here we have an example of a gas-powered hover mower, backed with a reputable Briggs & Stratton engine that doesn’t require prime or choke to start.

Any Brits reading this will be livid I didn’t choose a Flymo, but they’re just not as popular or readily available in the US and Canada.

With a 19-inch cutting deck, the mower has a tri-blade system, which will make short work of grass clippings, automatically mulching and depositing them on the lawn.

Capable of cutting at angles of up to 45-degrees, it’s perfect for hilly yards and gardens, and an extension handle and wheel kit is available to make operation and transport a little easier.

Hover Mower Advantages

Superior maneuverability – Watch any hover mower in action, and right away you’ll see its number one advantage – unbeatable maneuverability.

It can handle hills and obstacles with ease, as the operator can simply swing the deck pretty much anywhere they need to cut.

As a result, they’re an excellent choice for lawns that are an odd shape, perhaps with many curves, or nooks and crannies that a wheeled rotary mower might struggle to get into.

Storage – Hover mowers are generally more compact than their wheeled rotary counterparts, and they’ll take up less space in your shed or garage. They’re easier to hang on a wall, too.

Ready-to-go – Right out of the box, hover mowers have a plug-and-play kinda vibe. You can get to mowing the lawn with minimal assembly (if any is required at all).

Ideal for boggy ground – Hover mowers don’t have wheels, and so they can’t get stuck in the mud. While it’s not recommended you mow in damp conditions, using a hover mower is a good solution.

If you absolutely must cut wet grass and there’s no other way around it, at least look at this article on how to mow wet grass safely.

Suitable for overseeding – Furthermore, given the fact that hover mowers are devoid of wheels, they’re more suitable for mowing over new seed – or anywhere you don’t want to mark or damage the turf.

Wheels will nearly always make track marks, and while these will fade in time, if you’re going over freshly seeded spots or other sensitive terrain, they can cause traffic damage you just wouldn’t get with a hover mower.

Hover Mower Disadvantages

Uneven cuts – Hover mowers can take a bit of practice to control, and it’s quite possible that uneven cuts will be the result of this learning curve.

Swinging the machine around willy-nilly doesn’t always achieve an attractive, uniform finish. Certainly not when compared to a wheeled, rotary mower. Sticking to a systematic cutting route might be trickier.

Weight – You need a certain amount of physical fitness to use a hover mower, as it can take a bit of effort to swing it from side to side, especially if you’re mowing for any length of time.

You don’t have the luxury of a self-propelled system to do it for you, and moving a hover mower around can increase operator fatigue much faster than a machine with wheels.

You also need to transport the mower to the area it needs to cut – and given the lack of wheels, it means you’re going to have to lift it.

Gas-powered hover mowers in particular aren’t going to be all that lightweight.

Limited grass clipping options – Hover mowers don’t have the versatility of rotary mowers, in that your choice of how you dispose of grass clippings is limited.

Some machines do offer a bagging option, but for the most part, you’re going to be scattering the material back on the lawn – which isn’t for everyone, nor is it for every lawn.

No battery-powered options – As mentioned it appears there are no cordless hover mowers out there, but you can always check this article for the best battery-powered lawn mowers if that’s what you’re looking for.

Limited cutting heights – Hover mowers don’t come close to rotary when it comes to cutting height options. And even if they do have a selection to choose from – adjusting them can be a time-draining chore.

Hover Mower or Rotary Mower – The Final Verdict

It’s clear that both types of mower have a lot to offer the homeowner, and you might still be having a little trouble in making a decision.

Here’s my two cents.

If you have a small to medium lawn that’s a uniform shape, you want the option of mulching, bagging, and side discharge, and/or you want to stripe your lawn – then go with a rotary mower.

If your lawn is small and irregular, perhaps with slopes, uneven terrain, and obstacles – then consider choosing a hover mower for the job.

And check out this review on the best lawn mowers for small yards if you do happen to have a more modest plot.

FAQs

Is a hover mower better than a rotary?

Yes and no – it depends on what you need it for.

Hover mowers are better for hills and negotiating obstacles. They’re more suitable for smaller yards and gardens.

For just about everything else, a rotary mower comes out on top.

What type of mower do I need for my lawn?

Good question, and one that we see and hear a lot of here at YardThyme.

As such, we’ve written a whole article on all the different types of lawnmower – and which one is right for your lawn.

Take a look at that link, and you should be able to figure out the best option for your particular needs.

Should I choose a gas or electric lawn mower?

Ahhh the endless debate when it comes to just about any piece of outdoor power equipment. Do you go for gas or electric?

Luckily, you can find out the merits of each over at this article on gas versus electric lawn mowers, which will help you with this difficult decision.

We think of everything.

What is the advantage of a hover mower?

As mentioned above, the main advantages of a hover mower are maneuverability, and that they’re ideal for use on hills or sloping terrain.

What type of mowers give the best cut?

It depends entirely on the quality of the mower and not the type itself.

You’d need to try every single mower type and then compare every model of that type against every model of every other type in order to find an answer.

Best of luck with that.

Seriously though, any powerful mower with a sharp, quality blade set up should provide a very satisfactory cut.

But purists will tell you that a premium reel mower with razor-sharp blades will give you the best possible finish.

Many dedicated lawn enthusiasts will do the hard work with a gas-powered or electric machine, and then finish it off with a fine cut from a reel mower.

Are rotary mowers any good?

Yes, they are. But perhaps only when used in the right environment.

They come into their own in smaller lawns, on hilly or sloping terrain, and/or when tackling obstacles and hazards.

Which is cheaper – a rotary or a hover mower?

This isn’t a straightforward one to answer, I’m afraid. It will depend on the quality of the mower and if it’s gas or electric. Gas tends to be more expensive for both versions.

For the most part, I would say that hover mowers are generally cheaper than rotary – all things being equal.

Take a look at this article on the best cheap lawn mowers if you are on a budget.

Summary

In the battle of the rotary vs hover mowers, the results are interesting, to say the least.

Personally, I’d choose a rotary every time – unless my grass cutting needs were specifically met with the hover mower’s advantages.

Let me know in the comments which mower you would go for and why – or if I’ve missed anything out from either machine.

Happy mowing!