We watched our grandfathers and our dads as they pushed the reel mower every week to keep the lawn immaculate.
So, what has made it such a turn-off? We think there is only one real reason.
A reel mower is hard work. Simple.
As MoeDrippins on Hacker News puts it, “ Anyone who’s had to use it can tell you why. They are freaking hard work”.
The older generation may not have had much choice in mowers, but today, there are plenty of options available, including self-propelled, rotary, or riding mowers. In addition, robotic lawnmowers are gradually taking root in the mower market.
Compared to these fast and efficient machines, it’s easy to see why Americans wouldn’t want to spare an extra effort when they really don’t have to.
Why is a Reel Mower Hard Work?
Here’s why we think the reel mower is such a turn-off:
1. Inefficiency on Bigger Lawns
We all agree that reel mowers offer a professional and clean cut. However, it’s mostly practical for a half an acre lot or smaller. For a bigger lawn, it’s tiring and backbreaking work. It’s worse if your turf is uneven or has some hilly areas.
Maximum Majestic commented on Reddit, “Have you used one before? I have 3 acres of land, and with my riding mower, it takes about 2 hours to mow. If I had to do it with a push mower, it would ‘eat’ a whole day.”
Another person on Reddit commented, “Because some people have bigger yards, and there’s only so much time in a day.”
There is no argument there.
2. Difficulty in Diverse Landscapes
Homeowners don’t just want a lawn with turf grass. They prefer to mix it up with shrubs and trees to make a harmonious outdoor space. Reel mowers don’t like sticks or twigs.
Unless you want the handles ramming your chest, taking a few minutes to clear out the twigs is an absolute must. That’s extra work you wouldn’t have to worry much about when using a riding mower.
3. Keeping Up With Grass Length
If you allow your grass to grow too long, you will set yourself up for failure. The reel mower will roll over the grass rather than cut it. At best, you’ll have to mow the same row twice in both directions for the best results.
In the era of top efficiency and productivity, the last thing you want is a mowing headache because you’re two days late cutting the grass!
While reel mowers may still have some die-hard users today, the hard work and commitment they require have kept most Americans away.
Lead Editor for Insight Weeds.