Maintaining a small garden can be a relaxing and rewarding task. However, when it comes to choosing the right lawn mower, things can get overwhelming with so many options available. For smaller spaces, you don’t need a heavy-duty, wide mower. What you really need is something compact, lightweight, and easy to maneuver—yet still capable of providing a clean, even cut. In this guide, we’ll help you find the perfect lawn mower for your small garden by highlighting three highly recommended models, along with essential features, pros and cons, and maintenance tips. Let’s dive into the world of lawn mowers that will make your gardening experience more enjoyable.
Top 3 Recommended Lawn Mowers for Small Gardens
1. Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower
Key Features
- Battery-Powered (Cordless)
- 40V lithium-ion battery for long-lasting power
- 16-inch deck for efficient cutting in smaller yards
- Adjustable cutting height (1-3/4″ to 2-3/4″)
- Easy-to-fold handles for compact storage
- Weighs only 37 pounds
The Greenworks 16-Inch 40V Cordless Lawn Mower is one of the best options for those with a small garden. With its 40V battery, it offers reliable power while remaining environmentally friendly and easy to use. It’s lightweight at just 37 pounds, which makes it perfect for users who need to navigate around flower beds, trees, and other obstacles typical in small yards.
Its 16-inch cutting width is ideal for small lawns, and you can adjust the cutting height with ease to ensure your grass is trimmed to the perfect length. Additionally, the Greenworks mower is equipped with a foldable handle for easy storage, making it a great choice for those with limited storage space.
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Easy to assemble and operate
- Cordless convenience eliminates tangled wires
- Compact size ideal for smaller spaces
Cons
- The 40V battery might not be enough for larger lawns
- Some users reported that the battery charge duration could be better
2. Honda HRN216VKA 21-Inch Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
Key Features
- Gas-Powered, Self-Propelled
- 21-inch cutting width
- 4-in-1 mowing system (mulch, bag, side discharge, and rear discharge)
- Easy-start engine with no priming
- Adjustable cutting height (1-1/8″ to 4″)
- Comfortable handle and ergonomic design
If you’re looking for a reliable, no-fuss lawn mower with a bit more power, the Honda HRN216VKA Self-Propelled Gas Lawn Mower is a great choice. While it’s designed for medium-sized lawns, it can still be a perfect fit for smaller gardens that require extra power for thick or stubborn grass.
The 21-inch deck makes it versatile and fast for larger small gardens. Its self-propelled feature also reduces the strain of pushing, making it easier to tackle uneven terrain. With an easy-start engine and a smooth, responsive operation, the Honda mower is designed for user comfort and long-term durability. Plus, it offers a 4-in-1 mowing system, so you can choose between mulching, bagging, side, or rear discharge depending on your preferences.
Pros
- Powerful engine suitable for tough grass
- Excellent self-propulsion system makes mowing effortless
- Multiple cutting options for different lawn types
- Honda’s reputation for long-lasting reliability
Cons
- Heavier compared to electric models
- Gas-powered mowers are noisier than electric models
- Not as compact as other options
3. Scotts 2000-20 20-Inch Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower
Key Features
- Manual (Reel) Mower
- 20-inch cutting width
- No gas or electricity needed
- Adjustable cutting height (1 to 3 inches)
- 5-blade reel for efficient, clean cuts
- Lightweight and environmentally friendly
For those who prefer an eco-friendly and low-maintenance option, the Scotts 2000-20 20-Inch Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower is a top contender. Reel mowers are simple, quiet, and don’t require any fuel or batteries, making them ideal for smaller gardens. They’re also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
This model features a 5-blade reel that allows for precise cuts while also being gentle on your lawn. Its 20-inch cutting width is suitable for small gardens, and it’s very lightweight, making it easy to push around. The adjustable height settings ensure that you can maintain the desired grass length with ease. Plus, there’s no need to worry about storing gas or charging batteries.
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Environmentally friendly with zero emissions
- Simple and easy to use
- Great for small, flat lawns
Cons
- Not ideal for uneven terrain or thick grass
- Requires physical effort to push
- Limited cutting width compared to powered mowers
- Features to Look For in a Lawn Mower for Small Gardens
1. Maneuverability in Tight Spaces
When choosing a lawn mower for a small garden, maneuverability is key. A compact design ensures you can easily navigate around obstacles like garden beds, trees, and fences. Look for mowers with a small to medium cutting width (16 to 20 inches) that allow for flexibility in tight spots. The Greenworks 16-Inch Cordless Mower and the Scotts Push Reel Mower are great examples of compact mowers that excel in small spaces.
2. Adjustable Cutting Height Settings
Adjustable cutting height gives you flexibility when it comes to lawn maintenance. Being able to adjust the mower’s height means you can cater to different types of grass and maintain an even lawn throughout the season. Most electric and gas mowers offer this feature, so check the range of adjustment and choose a mower that suits your preferred grass length.
3. Ease of Storage
Storage is an important consideration for small gardens, especially if you’re working with limited space. Look for mowers with foldable handles or compact designs that can be stored in a shed, garage, or closet. Both the Greenworks Cordless Mower and the Scotts Reel Mower have designs that make them easy to store without taking up too much space.
4. Corded vs. Cordless Options
Corded mowers require you to be plugged into an outlet, which limits mobility but ensures you won’t run out of power mid-mow. They’re a good choice for those who don’t mind the hassle of cords. Cordless, on the other hand, are ideal for small gardens because they offer great maneuverability and eliminate the worry of tangling cords or needing a nearby outlet. The Greenworks Cordless Mower, for instance, provides the freedom of a rechargeable battery, which is perfect for small spaces.
Types of Lawn Mowers for Small Gardens
Manual Reel Mowers
Manual reel mowers are the simplest and most eco-friendly option. They are powered purely by physical force and don’t require any electricity or gas. While they’re best suited for smaller, flat lawns, they provide a clean and quiet cut. If you don’t mind some physical effort, a reel mower like the Scotts 2000-20 is a great choice.
Electric Mowers (Corded and Cordless)
Electric mowers are the most popular choice for small gardens. Corded electric mowers are ideal for small, flat lawns and are generally lightweight, easy to use, and affordable. Cordless mowers, like the Greenworks 40V model, offer even more convenience, as they don’t require an outlet. Battery-powered options are perfect for those who want the flexibility to move around freely without dealing with extension cords.
Gas-Powered Mowers
Gas-powered mowers, such as the Honda HRN216VKA, are known for their powerful engines and durability. While they’re more suited to larger yards, they can still work well in small gardens that need more power to handle thick or overgrown grass. They tend to be heavier and noisier, but for many users, the performance outweighs the noise.
Performance and Efficiency
For small gardens, it’s essential to look at cutting performance and runtime. Battery-powered mowers, such as the Greenworks 40V, offer efficient cutting performance with minimal noise. The main drawback is that they require recharging after a certain amount of use, usually 30 to 40 minutes for most models.
Gas-powered mowers provide more power and can run for longer periods, but they are louder and emit more pollutants. Reel mowers require no power, but they rely on physical effort and may not perform as well on thicker or uneven grass.
Price Range and Value
Lawn mowers for small gardens come in a variety of price ranges. Manual reel mowers are the most affordable, often priced between $100 and $200. Electric mowers fall into the mid-range, with prices ranging from $150 to $300. Gas-powered mowers are generally more expensive, ranging from $300 to $500. When choosing a mower, consider the long-term value, including its durability, ease of maintenance, and how well it meets your specific needs.
Maintenance Tips
To keep your mower in top condition:
Clean the blades regularly to avoid grass buildup.
Sharpen the blades at least once a year for a cleaner cut.
Check and replace the battery for cordless models if it’s no longer holding a charge.
Change the oil for gas mowers as needed.
Store the mower properly during the off-season to avoid rust and damage.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
When selecting a lawn mower, it’s always helpful to look at customer reviews. For example, the Greenworks 40V Cordless Mower receives praise for its quiet operation and easy handling, making it a favorite for users with small gardens. The Honda HRN216VKA has a loyal following thanks to its power and reliability, but it’s noted to be heavier and louder.
Where to Buy
You can find these lawn mowers at most local home improvement stores, such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, or your local garden equipment retailers. For online shopping, check out websites like Amazon, Walmart, and the official brand websites for direct purchases.
Eco-Friendly Options
If you’re focused on environmental sustainability, manual reel mowers like the Scotts 2000-20 are your best bet. They require no electricity or gas and are perfect for small, eco-conscious gardeners. For those who prefer electric models, cordless mowers like the Greenworks 40V are a cleaner alternative to gas-powered machines.
Conclusion
When selecting a lawn mower for your small garden, you’ll want to choose a model that offers a balance of efficiency, ease of use, and compactness. Whether you opt for the quiet Greenworks cordless model, the reliable Honda gas mower, or the eco-friendly Scotts reel mower, each of these options is designed to meet the specific needs of smaller lawns. With proper care and maintenance, any of these mowers will help keep your garden neat and tidy for years to come.
Related topics:
- Battery Lawn Mower vs. Gas Lawn Mower: Which Is Better?
- Is a Ryobi Lawn Mower Worth It?
- Who Makes PowerSmart Lawn Mowers?
