St. Augustine grass is a beautiful, dense, and shade-tolerant grass that’s popular in warmer climates. To keep it looking its best, you need a mower that can handle its unique characteristics without scalping or damaging the turf. This guide reviews the best lawn mowers specifically chosen for St. Augustine grass, ensuring a healthy and pristine lawn.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 6 Best Lawn Mower For St Augustine Grass Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower
The Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Mower is a fantastic choice for maintaining a neat St. Augustine lawn. It’s a manual mower, meaning it’s powered by you pushing it, which is great for the environment and your wallet. The 7-blade reel ensures a clean cut without tearing, crucial for this type of grass. Its 16-inch cutting width is ideal for small to medium-sized yards.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 7-blade ball bearing reel for a smooth, precise cut.
- ✓ 16-inch cutting width covers a good area efficiently.
- ✓ 10-inch composite wheels for easy maneuverability.
- ✓ Durable steel side plate design for longevity.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Earthwise reel mower because it provides a clean, scissor-like cut that St. Augustine grass thrives on. It’s quiet, eco-friendly, and offers a great workout while keeping your lawn tidy. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer a more hands-on approach to lawn care.
Best For
This mower is best for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who want an eco-friendly and quiet mowing experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Quiet operation.
- Eco-friendly, no gas or electricity needed.
- Provides a clean cut, preventing grass blade damage.
- Easy to assemble and maintain.
Cons:
- Requires physical effort to push.
- May struggle with very tall or thick grass without frequent mowing.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I bought this to mow my new installed Bermuda turf… (It’s hard to crank though… LOL!) it was extremely easy to assemble and the blades were sharp from the factory. I found it very addictive to mow with despite having an expensive Zero Turn mower and a new rotary mower. Obviously the noise leve”
Customer Review: “this is a great lawnmower. its quiet, it was easy to build, it works great on my backyard (except for the tall grass which is why i also bought some shears) but itll be perfect now that the grass is cut down. it was super overgrown because we had just moved into this house and the lawn wasnt taken c”
2. American Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower with Grass Catcher
The American Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower is another excellent manual option for St. Augustine grass. It features a 5-blade reel, which is great for maintaining a consistent height, and a convenient grass catcher to keep your lawn tidy. The 14-inch cutting width makes it easy to navigate around obstacles and smaller yards.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5-blade reel with a 14-inch cutting width.
- ✓ Integrated grass catcher simplifies cleanup.
- ✓ Adjustable blade height (1-2.25 inches) for customized cuts.
- ✓ Durable alloy steel blades designed to stay sharp.
Why We Recommend It
This mower is a solid choice for its combination of performance and ease of use. The inclusion of a grass catcher is a big plus for many homeowners. Its scissor-action cut is gentle on St. Augustine grass, promoting healthier growth. It’s a reliable tool for consistent lawn maintenance.
Best For
Ideal for small to medium yards, especially for those who appreciate a clean cut and the convenience of a grass catcher.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Includes a grass catcher.
- Easy to maneuver around the lawn.
- Quiet and environmentally friendly.
- Provides a clean cut.
Cons:
- May require more passes for dense St. Augustine growth.
- Can be challenging to push on uneven terrain.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using a traditional gas rotary mower for years and had heard good things about reel mowers. There’s a lot of options, and I tried out a Scotts 16″ Elite Reel Mower first from a local store before upgrading to this 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel American Lawn Mower, and overall, I am pleased with it ”
Customer Review: “Perfect little rotary mower, I have a strip about 100′ long and 10″ wide that my robot mowers can’t cut because it is too close to the curb. My riding mower can’t cut it low enough without scalping the ground, so this was the perfect solution.I was a little skeptical because one wheel is on the gras”
3. LawnMaster 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
For those on a budget, the LawnMaster 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower offers great value. It has a slightly wider 18-inch cutting deck, which can make mowing a bit quicker. The eco-friendly design and clean cut make it a solid performer for St. Augustine grass, especially for maintaining a healthy lawn without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 18-inch cutting width for efficient mowing.
- ✓ 9 cutting positions (1.1-inches – 2.5-inches) for customizable height.
- ✓ 10-inch front wheels for improved maneuverability.
- ✓ No tools required for assembly.
Why We Recommend It
This mower is an excellent budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on essential features. It provides a healthy cut for St. Augustine grass and is straightforward to use. If you’re looking for an affordable way to maintain your lawn, this is a strong contender.
Best For
Homeowners seeking an affordable yet effective reel mower for their St. Augustine lawn, particularly those with medium-sized yards.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point.
- Wider cutting path than some competitors.
- Easy tool-free assembly.
- Adjustable cutting heights.
Cons:
- Can be a bit heavier to push than lighter models.
- Performance might dip on very uneven ground.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I waited until I had used this mower a few times before leaving this review. This is my take on this mower. This goes in the top five greatest purchases I have made on Amazon. I read every review like this one, so I will do my best to p”
Customer Review: “Anyone can put this together in less than 5 minutes. All’s needed is a fraction of upper body strength in order to snap on the handle bar assembly. No tools required besides your bare hands. Best Mower I have ever owned. Period. I no longer worry about an extension cord getting in the way, gas not k”
4. Southern Ag 006130 Weed Killer
While not a mower, specialized products are crucial for St. Augustine grass health. The Southern Ag 006130 Weed Killer is specifically formulated to control weeds in St. Augustine and Centipede grass. This is an important consideration for maintaining a pristine lawn, as weeds can compete for nutrients and water.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Specifically designed for St. Augustine grass.
- ✓ Effective at controlling common lawn weeds.
- ✓ One quart treats a substantial area (3,720 sq ft).
Why We Recommend It
A healthy St. Augustine lawn requires more than just mowing. This weed killer addresses a common problem, ensuring your grass can flourish without competition. It’s a targeted solution that helps maintain the appearance and health of your lawn.
Best For
Homeowners with St. Augustine grass looking for an effective way to manage and eliminate weeds.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Safe for St. Augustine grass when used as directed.
- Highly effective against many common weeds.
- Good value for the amount provided.
Cons:
- Requires careful application to avoid harming desirable grass.
- May have restrictions on use in certain areas.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “There may be local or state laws regarding how you can use Atrazine in your yard. I try to be careful, using it once a year only, but this last winter was an exception.An invasive grass invaded my St. Auustine Palmetto backyard over the winter, and I have had a heck of a time getting rid of it. It”
Customer Review: “Ongoing Review:I’ve had good success with Atrazine in different products including Scott’s Bonus S and hose end sprayers.I bought this so that I could spot-spray weeds in the front yard without spraying the entire lawn with Atrazine with a hose end sprayer. I did that to my backyard and it worked pr”
5. American Lawn Mower 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Mower with Grass Catcher
The American Lawn Mower 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Mower with Grass Catcher is another quality manual option. Its 7-blade reel is excellent for achieving a very fine cut, which is beneficial for dense grasses like St. Augustine. The 16-inch cutting width provides a good balance between coverage and maneuverability, and the included grass catcher adds convenience.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 7-blade reel for a precise, high-quality cut.
- ✓ 16-inch cutting width.
- ✓ Includes a grass catcher for easier cleanup.
- ✓ Designed for various grass types, including dense varieties.
Why We Recommend It
This mower excels at providing a superior cut quality, which is key for the health and appearance of St. Augustine grass. It’s a well-built machine that offers a clean trim and the convenience of catching clippings, making lawn maintenance more efficient.
Best For
Homeowners who prioritize a precise, manicured look for their St. Augustine lawn and appreciate the benefit of a grass catcher.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional cutting performance.
- Convenient grass catcher.
- Durable construction.
- Quiet operation.
Cons:
- Can require more effort on thicker St. Augustine growth.
- Assembly may take a bit longer than simpler models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve been using a traditional gas rotary mower for years and had heard good things about reel mowers. There’s a lot of options, and I tried out a Scotts 16″ Elite Reel Mower first from a local store before upgrading to this 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel American Lawn Mower, and overall, I am pleased with it ”
Customer Review: “Perfect little rotary mower, I have a strip about 100′ long and 10″ wide that my robot mowers can’t cut because it is too close to the curb. My riding mower can’t cut it low enough without scalping the ground, so this was the perfect solution.I was a little skeptical because one wheel is on the gras”
6. BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Cordless Mower Combo
The BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Cordless Mower Combo offers versatility for smaller St. Augustine lawns or areas needing precision trimming. While it’s not a traditional reel mower, its lightweight design and convertible features make it useful for maintaining edges and small patches. The cordless operation provides freedom of movement.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 3-in-1 functionality: mower, trimmer, and edger.
- ✓ Cordless operation with two batteries for continuous use.
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- ✓ Removable wheeled deck for versatility.
Why We Recommend It
This tool is a great option for keeping edges sharp and tackling small, hard-to-reach areas of a St. Augustine lawn. Its versatility means you can handle multiple lawn care tasks with one device, which is convenient for smaller properties or detailed work.
Best For
Homeowners with small St. Augustine lawns or those who need a tool for precise trimming and edging.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly versatile.
- Convenient cordless operation.
- Lightweight and easy to handle.
- Good for detailed work.
Cons:
- Not ideal for large lawns.
- May not provide as clean a cut as a dedicated reel mower for the main lawn.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I live in Phoenix on an acre parcel and most of it is in desert landscape. Therefore no formal lawn to mow. Yaaa. However when it rains here the weeds grow, well like weeds. Fast and furious. This year we had lots of rain and lots of weeds. I’ve been running a battery powered weed eater every day f”
Customer Review: “I absolutely adore this mower/whacker! I have multiple small areas of grass that were once a pain to drag a heavy lawn mower over. I also wasn’t a fan of keeping and dealing with gas to mow a few small areas. This tool is lightweight and switches between mow/whack easily. Not a great choice for wet/”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Lawn Mower For St Augustine Grass
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best lawn mower for St. Augustine grass, we look at several key factors. Primarily, the cutting mechanism is crucial. St. Augustine grass benefits most from a clean, scissor-like cut to prevent tearing and disease. This is why reel mowers are often recommended. We also consider the cutting height adjustment – St. Augustine typically thrives between 1 to 3 inches, so a mower that can achieve this range without scalping is vital. Maneuverability is another important aspect, especially for lawns with landscaping or uneven terrain. Finally, ease of maintenance and durability ensure your mower will last and continue to perform well.
Budget Planning
Lawn mowers vary significantly in price. Manual reel mowers are generally the most affordable and eco-friendly. Battery-powered options offer convenience but come at a higher initial cost. Gas-powered mowers, while powerful, can be more expensive and require more maintenance. When planning your budget, consider not just the upfront cost but also ongoing expenses like fuel, electricity, or battery replacements. For St. Augustine grass, investing in a mower that provides a clean cut is often more important than raw power, making reel mowers a very cost-effective choice. If you’re looking for more options, check out our guide to the best lawn mowers for St. Augustine grass for a broader selection.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right lawn mower for your St. Augustine grass is essential for its health and appearance. While many mowers can cut grass, reel mowers are often the top choice for their ability to provide a clean, precise cut that this specific grass type requires. They are also quiet and environmentally friendly. If you’re maintaining a smaller yard and prefer a hands-on, eco-conscious approach, a well-chosen reel mower is likely your best bet for achieving a lush, beautiful St. Augustine lawn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of mower is best for St. Augustine grass?
A: Reel mowers are generally considered the best for St. Augustine grass because they provide a clean, scissor-like cut that prevents tearing and promotes healthy growth. Rotary mowers can also work if they have a high enough cutting deck and sharp blades, but care must be taken to avoid scalping.
Q: What is the ideal cutting height for St. Augustine grass?
A: St. Augustine grass typically prefers a mowing height between 1 and 3 inches. Mowing too low can stress the grass, making it susceptible to weeds and disease.
Q: Are electric or battery-powered mowers suitable for St. Augustine grass?
A: Yes, electric and battery-powered mowers can be suitable, especially if they offer good height control and sharp blades. Their main advantage is convenience and quieter operation compared to gas mowers. However, ensure they can achieve the correct cutting height without scalping.
Q: How often should I mow St. Augustine grass?
A: The frequency of mowing depends on the grass’s growth rate, which is influenced by factors like sunlight, watering, and fertilization. Generally, you should mow St. Augustine grass when it has grown about one-third of its desired height, typically once a week during the growing season.
Q: Can I use a mulching mower for St. Augustine grass?
A: Yes, mulching mowers can be beneficial as they return nutrients to the soil. However, ensure the grass is not too long when mulching to avoid smothering the turf. If you have very thick St. Augustine growth, you might need to bag the clippings occasionally.
Keeping your St. Augustine grass looking its best doesn’t have to be a chore. By selecting the right mower, you can ensure a healthy, beautiful lawn with ease. Whether you opt for the eco-friendly simplicity of a reel mower or the convenience of a powered option, proper maintenance and the right equipment will make all the difference. Happy mowing!