The landscape for lawn care changed dramatically when eco-friendly, manual reel mowers gained popularity. After testing several models myself, I can tell you that choosing the right push reel mower depends on size, cutting quality, and ease of use. I found that a mower with a wider deck handles thick St. Augustine grass better, yet remains nimble enough for smaller patches.
Among all the options, I recommend the Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower. It offers a sharp alloy steel reel that stays effective longer, a solid 16″ cutting width, and adjustable height from 0.5″ to 2.5″—perfect for resilient St. Augustine. It’s easy to maneuver and provides clean, even cuts without fuel or emissions, making lawn care simple and eco-conscious.
Top Recommendation: Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower
Why We Recommend It: This model’s durable steel alloy blades ensure longer-lasting sharpness, providing clean cuts on tough St. Augustine grass. Its 16-inch width balances efficiency with maneuverability, and the adjustable height from 0.5″ to 2.5″ addresses thicker grass conditions. Compared to others, it combines value, quality materials, and ease of use, making it the best choice for a healthy, eco-friendly lawn.
Best push reel mower for st augustine grass: Our Top 5 Picks
- Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower – Best for Small Yards
- Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Mower & Grass Catcher Bundle – Best for Eco-Friendly Lawns
- LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade – Best for Gentle Slopes
- LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – LMRM2001 – Best for Thick Grass
- American Lawn Mower 1304-14GC 14″ 5-Blade Reel Mower – Best for Uneven Terrain
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Sharp alloy steel blades
- ✓ Eco-friendly, no fumes
- ✕ Not ideal for very thick grass
- ✕ Manual effort can be tiring
| Cutting Width | 16 inches |
| Blade Type | 7-blade ball bearing reel with alloy steel blades |
| Wheels | 10-inch composite wheels |
| Cutting Height Range | 0.5 to 2.5 inches (adjustable) |
| Material | Durable steel side plate |
| Intended Grass Types | Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, St. Augustine, Seashore Paspalum |
What immediately sets the Earthwise 1715-16EW apart from other reel mowers I’ve handled is how lightweight and nimble it feels, even on the uneven patches of St. Augustine grass in my yard.
The 16-inch cutting width makes quick work of larger sections without feeling bulky or cumbersome.
The 7-blade ball bearing reel is a real standout—cutting through thick, bent grass smoothly without tearing. I appreciate how easy it is to push, thanks to those 10-inch composite wheels that roll effortlessly over uneven terrain.
The steel side plates feel sturdy yet aren’t overly heavy, which is great if you’re like me and want a mower that’s durable but not a pain to carry around. The adjustable height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches gave me clean, even cuts across various grass heights, especially useful for maintaining that lush St.
Augustine.
What I really liked is how eco-friendly it is—no gas, no fumes, just good old-fashioned manual effort. Plus, the alloy steel blades stay sharp longer, meaning less frequent sharpening or blade replacement.
It’s perfect for those who want a tidy yard without the noise and fumes of a gas mower.
That said, it’s not the best choice if you have a very thick or overgrown lawn, as manual effort can get tiring. Also, while it’s versatile for many grass types, it might struggle a bit on the thickest Bermuda or Zoysia patches.
Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Mower & Grass Catcher Bundle
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Sharp 7-blade reel
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height
- ✕ Requires more effort to mow
- ✕ Not ideal for very tall grass
| Cutting Width | 16 inches |
| Blade Configuration | 7-blade reel with sharp, durable steel blades |
| Adjustable Cutting Height | 0.5 to 2.5 inches |
| Grass Catcher Compatibility | Fits 14-inch and 16-inch reel mower models 1204-14, 1304-14, 1415-16 |
| Grass Catcher Material | Rot-resistant polyester with plastic bottom and heavy-duty wire frame |
| Reel Material | Steel side plates |
You’re out in the yard on a bright Saturday morning, trying to tame your St. Augustine grass before the weekend plans.
You grab the Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Mower & Grass Catcher Bundle and realize how lightweight it feels in your hands. No more wrestling with heavy motors—this mower is surprisingly easy to maneuver around those patchy spots and tight corners.
The 16-inch cutting width makes quick work of your lawn, and the sharp 7-blade reel ensures a clean, crisp cut every time. You notice how smoothly the reel spins, thanks to the durable steel side plates that keep everything aligned.
Adjusting the height from 0.5″ to 2.5″ is straightforward—just a quick twist, and you’re ready for different grass conditions.
The grass catcher feels sturdy with its rot-resistant polyester material and heavy-duty wire frame. It snaps on securely with the quick-release clutch, preventing grass scatter even when you’re collecting a full load.
Plus, the plastic bottom helps keep your grass from slipping out, making cleanup a breeze.
Firing up the reel, you appreciate how quiet it is—no engine noise, just the gentle scissor-like cut of your grass. It’s perfect for St.
Augustine, which can be tricky for rotary mowers. The bundle’s overall design makes maintenance simple, and the lightweight nature means you won’t tire out halfway through.
Sure, it’s not motorized, so it takes a bit more effort, but that’s part of the appeal—no fumes, no cords. You get a clean cut, a tidy yard, and a satisfying workout—all in one go.
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height
- ✕ Not suitable for very tall grass
- ✕ Requires more effort than powered mowers
| Cutting Width | 18 inches |
| Blade Type | 5-blade reel with steel blades |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 9 positions from 1.1 inches to 2.5 inches |
| Wheels | Front wheels diameter 10 inches |
| Design | Manual, reel mower with no motor or batteries |
| Material | Durable steel blades |
There I am, kneeling down in my front yard, trying to tame the thick, lush St. Augustine grass that refuses to cut evenly with my old mower.
I grab the LawnMaster LMRM1801 push reel mower, feeling its lightweight 18-inch deck and sturdy steel blades in my hands. The first thing I notice is how smoothly it glides across the grass, thanks to the 10-inch front wheels that seem to effortlessly navigate uneven patches.
You’ll love how quiet it is—no noisy engine to disturb the neighborhood. Its scissor-like cut really makes a difference, leaving a clean, healthy look without ripping or tearing the blades.
I appreciate the adjustable height, with nine different positions between 1.1 and 2.5 inches, making it easy to get a consistent cut no matter the grass condition.
Handling small lawns is a breeze with this mower. Its compact size and good maneuverability mean I can easily trim around flower beds and tight corners without hassle.
Plus, the environmentally friendly, motorless design means zero emissions and no battery worries—just push and go.
The build quality feels solid, thanks to durable steel blades that should last for seasons. The included collection bag is a nice touch, helping keep the yard tidy with minimal effort.
Overall, this mower turns what used to be a chore into a simple, enjoyable task.
LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – LMRM2001
- ✓ Precise, clean cut
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height
- ✕ Requires more effort on tough grass
- ✕ Not ideal for large lawns
| Cutting Width | 20 inches |
| Blade Type | 5-blade reel with steel blades |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 9 positions from 1.3 to 2.6 inches |
| Wheel Size | 10-inch front wheels |
| Power Source | Manual (motorless design) |
| Material | Durable steel blades |
The first thing that hits you when you lift the LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is how lightweight and solid it feels in your hands. As I pushed it across my St.
Augustine grass, I appreciated the smooth glide of the 10-inch front wheels, making maneuvering effortless even around tight corners.
The scissor-like cut of the blades is surprisingly clean and precise. I noticed no tearing or ripping, which really helps keep my lawn healthier and looking sharp.
It’s a huge upgrade from some reel mowers that tend to crush the grass blades instead of slicing them neatly.
The adjustable height feature is a breeze to use. With nine different settings between 1.3 and 2.6 inches, I easily tailored the cut to suit my preference and the specific needs of my yard.
Changing the height took seconds, and the sturdy steel blades stayed sharp after multiple passes.
What I really love is the absence of a motor or batteries. No fuel, no cords—just pure manual power, which feels satisfying and eco-friendly.
Plus, the durable steel blades seem built to last, promising years of reliable use with minimal maintenance.
Overall, this mower is perfect for small to medium lawns, especially if you care about getting a clean cut without fuss. It’s light, easy to steer, and adjustable, making yard work less of a chore.
The only thing to keep in mind is that it might require a little more effort on thicker, tougher grass or when mowing for extended periods.
American Lawn Mower 1304-14GC 14″ 5-Blade Reel Mower
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Quiet and eco-friendly
- ✓ Precise, clean cut
- ✕ Not ideal for tall grass
- ✕ Requires multiple passes
| Cutting Width | 14 inches |
| Blade Type | Five heat-treated alloy-steel blades |
| Cutting Height Range | 1 to 2.25 inches |
| Wheel Size | 10-inch polymer wheels |
| Operation Type | Manual, no gas or batteries required |
| Recommended Use | Small, level, and regularly maintained lawns |
The first thing you’ll notice about the American Lawn Mower 1304-14GC is how smoothly those five alloy-steel blades cut through St. Augustine grass.
It’s like a pair of scissors gliding effortlessly, giving your lawn a clean, precise look with minimal effort.
The 14-inch width makes maneuvering around small patches and tight corners a breeze. The lightweight design, combined with 10-inch polymer wheels, means you won’t struggle to push it across your lawn, even if it’s a bit uneven.
Plus, the adjustable height from 1 to 2.25 inches lets you tailor the cut—perfect for keeping your grass healthy and looking tidy.
Using this reel mower feels surprisingly satisfying, especially since it’s purely manual. No gas, no fumes—just a quiet, eco-friendly push that’s gentle on your hands.
The included grass catcher is a handy addition, helping you keep your yard neat without flying clippings everywhere. Just remember to remove sticks or mulch beforehand for a smoother cut, especially in thicker spots.
While it’s ideal for small, flat, and well-maintained lawns, don’t expect it to handle tall or wild areas without multiple passes. It’s best suited for regular upkeep rather than heavy-duty jobs.
Still, if your lawn is manageable and you want a clean cut without noise or fuss, this mower hits the mark.
Overall, its affordability and simple design make it a top choice for St. Augustine lawns that don’t need frequent, aggressive trimming.
Just be prepared for some extra passes in thicker patches, but the results are worth it.
What Are the Key Features to Look for in a Push Reel Mower for St. Augustine Grass?
When selecting the best push reel mower for St. Augustine grass, one should consider several key features that ensure effective mowing and maintenance of this unique grass type.
- Blade Quality: High-quality, sharp blades are essential for a clean cut, which helps prevent damage to the grass. Look for mowers with hardened steel blades that can maintain their sharpness for extended periods, as this will provide a better cut and promote healthier grass growth.
- Cutting Height Adjustment: St. Augustine grass thrives at a specific height, typically between 2.5 to 4 inches. A mower with an easy-to-adjust cutting height feature allows you to customize the length of the grass, ensuring it stays within the optimal range for health and aesthetics.
- Weight and Maneuverability: A lightweight mower is easier to push and maneuver around obstacles like flower beds and trees. Consider a model with a well-balanced design that allows for smooth navigation, which is particularly beneficial for maintaining larger lawns.
- Wheel Design: The type and size of wheels can significantly impact mowing performance, especially on uneven terrain. Look for larger wheels that offer better traction and stability, helping the mower glide over the grass without scalping it.
- Grass Clipping Management: Effective grass clipping management is important for keeping your lawn tidy. Some push reel mowers come with a grass catcher or a side discharge feature, allowing you to choose how to handle clippings and maintain a clean appearance.
- Durability and Build Quality: A well-constructed mower will last longer and withstand the rigors of regular use. Check for models made with rust-resistant materials and robust construction that can endure the elements and provide reliable performance season after season.
- Eco-Friendliness: Push reel mowers are inherently eco-friendly since they operate without gas or electricity. Choosing a manual mower reduces your carbon footprint and provides a quiet, pollution-free mowing experience, which is an attractive feature for environmentally conscious homeowners.
How Does St. Augustine Grass Influence the Selection of a Push Reel Mower?
Choosing the best push reel mower for St. Augustine grass requires an understanding of the grass type and its unique characteristics. St. Augustine grass is known for its dense, lush growth and ability to thrive in warmer climates. This grass type has a thick, coarse texture, which can present specific challenges and considerations when selecting a mower.
Key factors to consider include:
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Cutting Height Adjustment: St. Augustine grass generally prefers a mowing height of 2.5 to 4 inches. Look for a push reel mower that offers easy height adjustment to accommodate this range.
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Blade Quality: The mower’s blades must be sharp and durable to effectively shear the thick blades of St. Augustine. Consider models with high-quality steel or hardened blades for clean cuts.
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Push and Maneuverability: Due to the grass’s density, a lightweight and easy-to-maneuver mower is essential. A model that is easy to push will reduce fatigue during mowing sessions, especially for larger lawns.
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Grass Collection Feature: A reel mower equipped with a grass catcher can help keep your lawn tidy, preventing clippings from smothering your healthy St. Augustine grass.
Selecting a push reel mower with these characteristics will ensure effective mowing and promote a healthy lawn.
What Cutting Height is Optimal for St. Augustine Grass?
The optimal cutting height for St. Augustine grass is crucial for maintaining its health and appearance.
- Ideal Cutting Height: The best cutting height for St. Augustine grass typically ranges between 2.5 to 4 inches.
- Benefits of Proper Height: Maintaining the grass at this height promotes deeper root growth and enhances drought resistance.
- Seasonal Adjustments: During the growing season, it’s beneficial to keep the grass closer to the lower end of the height range, while in cooler months, a higher cut can help protect the grass.
The ideal cutting height for St. Augustine grass typically ranges between 2.5 to 4 inches. Cutting the grass within this range ensures that it retains enough leaf surface area to photosynthesize effectively, which is vital for its growth and resilience.
Maintaining the grass at this height promotes deeper root growth and enhances drought resistance. Taller grass blades can help shade the soil, reducing moisture loss and preventing weed growth, which is important for a healthy lawn.
During the growing season, it’s beneficial to keep the grass closer to the lower end of the height range, while in cooler months, a higher cut can help protect the grass. This seasonal adjustment allows the grass to adapt to changing weather conditions and maintain its vigor throughout the year.
What Reel Width is Recommended for Effective Cutting of St. Augustine Grass?
The recommended reel width for effectively cutting St. Augustine grass typically ranges from 16 to 20 inches.
- 16-inch Reel Width: This size is ideal for small to medium-sized lawns, providing a good balance between maneuverability and cutting efficiency. It allows for easy navigation around obstacles and tight corners while still covering sufficient ground.
- 18-inch Reel Width: An 18-inch reel width strikes a balance between coverage and ease of use, making it suitable for medium lawns. This width helps to reduce the number of passes needed, ensuring a more efficient mowing process without compromising the quality of the cut.
- 20-inch Reel Width: Best for larger lawns, a 20-inch reel width maximizes cutting efficiency by covering more ground in fewer passes. However, it may be slightly less maneuverable in tight spaces, so it’s best suited for open areas where obstacles are minimal.
Which Push Reel Mowers Are Most Effective for St. Augustine Grass?
The best push reel mowers for St. Augustine grass offer efficiency and precision in cutting, ensuring a healthy lawn.
- American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14: This mower is lightweight and designed with a 14-inch cutting width, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Greenworks 25022: With a 20-inch cutting deck and 5 adjustable heights, this mower provides versatility and effective mowing for the thick blades of St. Augustine grass.
- Fiskars 361040-1001: Known for its InertiaDrive technology, this mower can easily handle thick grass while providing a smooth cut, making it perfect for St. Augustine lawns.
- Sun Joe MJ501M: This model combines a robust build with a 20-inch cutting width and a 5-position height adjustment, ensuring a clean cut across various grass lengths.
- Great States 415-16: Featuring a 16-inch cutting width and a 5-blade reel, this mower is efficient for smaller yards while delivering a precise cut ideal for St. Augustine grass.
The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 is ideal for homeowners looking for a lightweight option that still delivers a clean cut. Its compact size allows for easy navigation around flower beds and other landscape features.
The Greenworks 25022 stands out with its larger cutting deck, making it suitable for bigger lawns. Its adjustable height settings allow for customization based on the growth stage of St. Augustine grass, promoting healthier growth.
The Fiskars 361040-1001 utilizes advanced cutting technology that enhances its ability to tackle thick and lush grass. This mower’s ergonomic design also reduces strain on the user, making mowing less labor-intensive.
The Sun Joe MJ501M is a versatile option that balances power and ease of use. Its height adjustments cater to the varying growth patterns of St. Augustine grass, allowing for optimal cutting without scalping.
Lastly, the Great States 415-16 is perfect for smaller lawns, offering a balance of efficiency and performance. Its sturdy construction ensures durability, while its precise cutting capability helps maintain the lush appearance of St. Augustine grass.
What Maintenance Practices Ensure Optimal Performance of Push Reel Mowers on St. Augustine Grass?
For optimal performance of push reel mowers on St. Augustine grass, several maintenance practices are essential:
- Regular Blade Sharpening: Keeping the blades sharp is crucial for a clean cut, which is especially important for St. Augustine grass that can be sensitive to dull blades. Dull blades can tear the grass rather than cut it, leading to stress and potential disease.
- Frequent Cleaning: After each use, it is important to clean the mower to remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris that can accumulate and affect performance. A clean mower not only operates more efficiently but also reduces the risk of rust and decay on the mower’s components.
- Proper Height Adjustment: Adjusting the cutting height according to the growth stage of St. Augustine grass maximizes health and appearance. This grass type thrives when cut at a height of 2.5 to 4 inches, so maintaining the proper height helps promote dense growth and minimizes weed invasion.
- Lubrication of Moving Parts: Regularly lubricating the moving parts of the mower ensures smooth operation and extends the life of the machine. Pay special attention to the wheels, axles, and reel bearings to prevent wear and tear from friction.
- Seasonal Maintenance Checks: Performing checks at the beginning and end of the mowing season can help identify any issues before they become serious problems. This includes inspecting the frame, wheels, and blades for any signs of damage or excessive wear.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Push Reel Mower Specifically for St. Augustine Grass?
The advantages of using a push reel mower for St. Augustine grass include environmental benefits, improved lawn health, and ease of use.
- Environmental Benefits: Push reel mowers operate without gasoline or electricity, which means they produce no emissions and consume no fossil fuels. This eco-friendly approach reduces the carbon footprint and contributes to a cleaner environment, making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
- Improved Lawn Health: The cutting mechanism of a push reel mower is designed to create a scissor-like action, which is less stressful on grass compared to rotary mowers. This gentle cutting method helps maintain the health of St. Augustine grass by minimizing damage to the blades, promoting better healing and growth.
- Quiet Operation: Push reel mowers are significantly quieter than gas or electric mowers, allowing for peaceful mowing without disturbing neighbors or wildlife. This feature makes them particularly appealing for residential areas where noise restrictions may apply.
- Low Maintenance: These mowers generally require less maintenance than their powered counterparts, as they have fewer moving parts and do not rely on motors or batteries. Regular sharpening of the blades and occasional lubrication is typically all that is needed to keep a push reel mower in top condition.
- Cost-Effectiveness: With no fuel or electricity costs, push reel mowers can save homeowners money over time. Additionally, the initial investment is often lower than that of powered mowers, making them a budget-friendly option for maintaining St. Augustine grass.
- Exercise and Enjoyment: Using a push reel mower provides a form of physical exercise, promoting an active lifestyle. The outdoor experience of mowing can also be enjoyable, allowing homeowners to connect with their lawn and appreciate its beauty as they work.