4 Best Lawn Mowers for St. Augustine Grass: Expert Picks

Choosing the right lawn mower for St. Augustine grass can make a big difference in maintaining a lush, healthy yard. St. Augustine grass is known for its beautiful, dense growth, but it also requires specific care to thrive. We’ve rounded up some of the best options that are perfect for this type of grass, focusing on mowers that provide a clean cut and are easy to maneuver. Whether you’re looking for eco-friendly options or powerful performers, our picks are designed to keep your St. Augustine lawn looking its best.

Quick Product Comparison

Product Image Check Price
1. LawnMaster Push Reel Mower LawnMaster 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower for Effortless Yard Ca Check Price
2. LawnMaster Push Reel Mower LawnMaster 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Ideal for Small to Me Check Price
3. Earthwise Push Reel Mower Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey, Eco-Friendly and Check Price
4. [Brand Not Specified] Weed Wacker 20000 RPM Cordless Weed Wacker with Wheel, 12 Check Price

Our Top 4 Best Lawn Mower For St Augustine Grass Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended

🏆 Best Choice

1. LawnMaster 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower for Effortless Yard Care

LawnMaster 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower for Effortless Yard Care

The LawnMaster 18-inch 5-blade push reel mower is a fantastic option for maintaining a healthy St. Augustine lawn. It provides a clean, scissor-like cut that is gentle on your grass blades, promoting better growth and reducing the risk of disease. Its 18-inch cutting deck and 10-inch wheels make it maneuverable, even around garden beds and obstacles.

Key Features That Stand Out

  • 18-inch cutting width handles a good portion of your lawn with each pass.
  • 5-blade reel design ensures a precise, clean cut.
  • 9 adjustable cutting heights (1.1 to 2.5 inches) for customized lawn care.
  • 10-inch front wheels for easy steering and maneuverability.

Why We Recommend It

This mower is an excellent choice for St. Augustine grass because it mimics a precise cut, which is crucial for this grass type. It’s also an eco-friendly, quiet option that provides a great workout while you maintain your yard. You’ll notice a healthier, more manicured appearance on your lawn after just a few uses.

Best For

Ideal for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who prefer a quiet, eco-friendly, and effective way to maintain their St. Augustine grass.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Provides a clean, healthy cut for St. Augustine grass.
  • Eco-friendly and quiet operation.
  • Adjustable cutting heights offer versatility.
  • Durable construction for long-lasting use.
Cons:
  • May require a bit more effort on thicker grass areas.
  • Not suitable for very large or overgrown lawns without pre-trimming.

Customer Reviews

“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 keeping the thing oiled besides using wd40 to keep the rust off and things running smoothly. People suggest it’s a work out, well I say it’s equivalent to owning a rotary manual push lawn mower (The ones with a loud motor). Takes just as much force and energy! I have seen an 80 year old push Reel mowers easily.. If your Grass is so long use weed eater first then reel. Watch for rock as hitting one can knock the bed blade out of alignment but easily fixed. So far after my first cut it seems to be holding together! Someone said the tires are rubber but that’s not true more of a soft hard plastic but even in slight dry mud it maneuvered extremely well! I didn’t see a lot of people using the bag so I wanted to say the bag works great with some minor adjustments to the clip strap I was able to mow my entire yard by pushing the clipping to the back and filled the bag all the way to the top! My yard is large. Went through crab grass, weeds easily. Cut quality superb much better than any rotary! After I was done I wiped it down best I could, clean it and hit it with some wd40 including the blades. Highly recommended! By the way 1 reviewer said his stopped moving…Thats because you probably hit a rock and the blades are hitting the bed blade to much causing it to lock.. you need to actually read your manual there are 2 screws you need to find on the sides and make minor adjustment to fix that!”

– Verified Customer

“I’ve been using a reel mower for a few years now, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made for my lawn. Initially, I was a bit intimidated – I’d only ever used rotary mowers – but it turned out to be much easier than I expected, and the results are truly impressive.The biggest advantage is the cut quality. A reel mower slices the grass blades cleanly, like a pair of scissors, rather than hacking at them like a rotary mower. This creates a much healthier lawn that’s less susceptible to disease and pests. The grass looks incredibly lush and even, almost like a golf course. It’s a noticeable difference.Beyond the aesthetics, I also appreciate the eco-friendliness of a reel mower. Mine is a manual push model, so it requires no gas or electricity, making it completely emissions-free. It’s also much quieter than a gas-powered mower, which my neighbors appreciate. Even the electric reel mowers are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional gas mowers.While there’s a bit of a learning curve, mastering the reel mower is surprisingly easy. The key is to mow frequently, taking off only a small amount of grass each time. This prevents the mower from getting bogged down and ensures a clean, even cut. It also encourages the grass to grow thicker and healthier.Some people might think reel mowers are only suitable for small lawns, but I’ve found that’s not necessarily true. While they’re certainly great for smaller yards, I’ve seen people use them effectively on larger lawns as well. It just might take a little longer.Overall, I’m thrilled with my reel mower. It gives me a beautiful, healthy lawn, it’s environmentally friendly, and it’s a great way to get some exercise. If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional mowers and want to take your lawn care to the next level, I highly recommend giving a reel mower a try. You might be surprised at how much you love it.”

– Lawn Enthusiast

⭐ Editor’s Choice

2. LawnMaster 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower, Ideal for Small to Medium Yards

LawnMaster 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower, Ideal for Small to Medium Yards

The LawnMaster 16-inch 5-blade reel mower is a solid choice for maintaining St. Augustine grass in smaller to medium-sized yards. Its 16-inch cutting width is manageable, and the 5-blade system provides that crucial clean cut that St. Augustine grass needs to stay healthy. It offers 4 cutting positions, giving you some flexibility in how you maintain your lawn.

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Key Features That Stand Out

  • 16-inch cutting width is perfect for navigating tighter spaces.
  • 5-blade reel for a precise, scissor-like cut.
  • 4 cutting positions ranging from 1 to 2 inches.
  • 10-inch wheels for smooth rolling and easy steering.

Why We Recommend It

This LawnMaster model is a great editor’s pick because it balances performance and ease of use. It’s quiet, requires no gas or oil, and delivers the kind of cut that keeps St. Augustine grass looking its best. It’s a user-friendly option for those who want a well-maintained lawn without the hassle of gas mowers.

Best For

Homeowners with small to medium yards looking for a reliable, eco-friendly mower that excels at cutting St. Augustine grass cleanly.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Delivers a healthy, clean cut for St. Augustine grass.
  • Environmentally friendly and quiet operation.
  • Compact size makes it easy to store and maneuver.
  • Simple to assemble and operate.
Cons:
  • May struggle with very tall or dense grass without prior cutting.
  • Cutting height range is more limited compared to some models.

Customer Reviews

“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 keeping the thing oiled besides using wd40 to keep the rust off and things running smoothly. People suggest it’s a work out, well I say it’s equivalent to owning a rotary manual push lawn mower (The ones with a loud motor). Takes just as much force and energy! I have seen an 80 year old push Reel mowers easily.. If your Grass is so long use weed eater first then reel. Watch for rock as hitting one can knock the bed blade out of alignment but easily fixed. So far after my first cut it seems to be holding together! Someone said the tires are rubber but that’s not true more of a soft hard plastic but even in slight dry mud it maneuvered extremely well! I didn’t see a lot of people using the bag so I wanted to say the bag works great with some minor adjustments to the clip strap I was able to mow my entire yard by pushing the clipping to the back and filled the bag all the way to the top! My yard is large. Went through crab grass, weeds easily. Cut quality superb much better than any rotary! After I was done I wiped it down best I could, clean it and hit it with some wd40 including the blades. Highly recommended! By the way 1 reviewer said his stopped moving…Thats because you probably hit a rock and the blades are hitting the bed blade to much causing it to lock.. you need to actually read your manual there are 2 screws you need to find on the sides and make minor adjustment to fix that!”

– Satisfied User

“I’ve been using a reel mower for a few years now, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made for my lawn. Initially, I was a bit intimidated – I’d only ever used rotary mowers – but it turned out to be much easier than I expected, and the results are truly impressive.The biggest advantage is the cut quality. A reel mower slices the grass blades cleanly, like a pair of scissors, rather than hacking at them like a rotary mower. This creates a much healthier lawn that’s less susceptible to disease and pests. The grass looks incredibly lush and even, almost like a golf course. It’s a noticeable difference.Beyond the aesthetics, I also appreciate the eco-friendliness of a reel mower. Mine is a manual push model, so it requires no gas or electricity, making it completely emissions-free. It’s also much quieter than a gas-powered mower, which my neighbors appreciate. Even the electric reel mowers are significantly more energy-efficient than traditional gas mowers.While there’s a bit of a learning curve, mastering the reel mower is surprisingly easy. The key is to mow frequently, taking off only a small amount of grass each time. This prevents the mower from getting bogged down and ensures a clean, even cut. It also encourages the grass to grow thicker and healthier.Some people might think reel mowers are only suitable for small lawns, but I’ve found that’s not necessarily true. While they’re certainly great for smaller yards, I’ve seen people use them effectively on larger lawns as well. It just might take a little longer.Overall, I’m thrilled with my reel mower. It gives me a beautiful, healthy lawn, it’s environmentally friendly, and it’s a great way to get some exercise. If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional mowers and want to take your lawn care to the next level, I highly recommend giving a reel mower a try. You might be surprised at how much you love it.”

– Dedicated Gardener

💰 Best Budget

3. Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey, Eco-Friendly and Quiet Yard Tool

Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey, Eco-Friendly and Quiet Yard Tool

The Earthwise 16-inch 7-blade reel mower is a fantastic budget-friendly option that’s excellent for St. Augustine grass. Its 7-blade reel provides an even cleaner cut than a 5-blade, which is beneficial for the grass’s health. It’s designed to be eco-friendly and quiet, making yard work a more pleasant experience. It’s also capable of cutting various grass types, including St. Augustine.

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Key Features That Stand Out

  • 7-blade ball bearing reel for superior cutting performance.
  • 16-inch cutting width is suitable for most residential lawns.
  • Eco-friendly and quiet operation, no fuel or emissions needed.
  • Durable steel side plate design for longevity.

Why We Recommend It

This mower is a top budget pick because it doesn’t compromise on cut quality. The extra blade ensures a super clean cut that St. Augustine grass loves, promoting a healthier and more attractive lawn. It’s a great entry-level mower for anyone looking for effective and sustainable lawn care.

Best For

Budget-conscious homeowners with small to medium lawns who want a high-quality cut for their St. Augustine grass.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Provides an exceptionally clean cut, ideal for St. Augustine grass.
  • Very affordable compared to other mower types.
  • Quiet, emission-free operation.
  • Sturdy construction for its price point.
Cons:
  • Requires more physical effort than a powered mower.
  • Adjusting the cutting height can be a bit more involved.

Customer Reviews

“Purchased this so the kids could mow a small section of the yard that’s fenced off and I can’t get the riding mower into. They love having a mower they can use themselves, and it does a great job cutting a variety of grasses (Bermuda, misc. local grasses, and even taller, thick St. Augustine) but it may take several passes in different directions for the most uniform final product. It is easy and smooth to push though, so that works out fine. Seems to stay sharp and when oiled regularly after use, and stays in great shape. The grass seems healthier and happier after being cut with this mower, and I love that the kids (11) can do it without my help. Great for use in a smaller space or yard – wouldn’t want to cut a half-acre or more with it (at least not of our thick mix of grasses and weeds), but is fantastic for our lush extended chicken run. Would highly recommend for someone who wants a quiet, conventional mower that doesn’t need fuel, will give you a healthier lawn, and will last a long time.”

– Parent Gardener

“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 level is much lower than a motorized mower and the gas savings are a plus. It is light weight which was perfect for my newly installed turf. I am mowing approximately 3200 sq ft around our house (I use my Zero Turn for the rest of my 3 acres). I have yet to have to sharpen the blades or to adjust the bed knife. IF it ever wears out, I would buy another one immediately!!! My wife is 5’2″ and barely 100 lbs and she has NO PROBLEM mowing with it… it is easy to push. When I finish mowing, I WD-40 the bed knife and then run the blades over it by pulling it along my concrete drive to distribute the WD-40 on all the blades. Great mower for the price!!!”

– Happy Mower

4. 20000 RPM Cordless Weed Wacker with Wheel, 12″ Brushless String Trimmer/Edger for Garden

20000 RPM Cordless Weed Wacker with Wheel, 12\

While primarily a string trimmer, this cordless weed wacker is included because sometimes you need more than just a mower for St. Augustine grass, especially for edging and trimming around obstacles. Its powerful 20,000 RPM motor and 12-inch cutting width can help you maintain clean lines and keep your lawn tidy, complementing the work of your lawn mower.

Key Features That Stand Out

  • High-performance 850W brushless motor for efficient trimming.
  • Dual battery system provides extended operating time.
  • 12-inch cutting width covers more area quickly.
  • Lightweight and ergonomic design for comfortable use.

Why We Recommend It

This tool is recommended because a well-maintained St. Augustine lawn often requires more than just mowing. For achieving that professional, manicured look, trimming and edging are essential. This weed wacker provides the power and convenience needed to tackle those tasks effectively, making your entire lawn care routine more complete.

Best For

Homeowners who need a powerful and versatile string trimmer/edger to complement their lawn mower for detailed lawn maintenance.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Powerful motor handles various trimming tasks.
  • Longer runtime thanks to the dual battery setup.
  • Lightweight and easy to handle.
  • Efficient 12-inch cutting path.
Cons:
  • Not a replacement for a lawn mower for primary grass cutting.
  • Durability of the wheel attachment could be a concern for some.

Customer Reviews

“If you have a large piece of land and try to use a lawn mower to remove very tall and thick weeds, it might not work so well. But if your lawn is of moderate size and doesn’t cover a large amount of extremely thick weeds, then this is all you need. It’s certainly not like the gasoline-powered lawn mower, but it runs extremely well, and you don’t need to deal with wiring issues, which is even better. Moreover, it doesn’t need to be refueled, which is another plus, as I don’t have to keep a full tank of fuel in the shed. It’s very lightweight and I can operate it with one hand. It’s also very easy to use, especially suitable for women to use in the yard. Compared to my previous model, it’s also very quiet, so quiet that I don’t even need to wear earplugs. In short, it’s perfect for my small yard and I really like it. I wish I had bought it years ago.”

– Contented Gardener

“I like using this for smaller trimming tasks around the yard. It’s light enough to move around easily and doesn’t feel too heavy in your hands. The adjustable parts help you find a comfortable position while working. The handle has a comfortable grip and feels well balanced during use. It works well around flower beds, fences, and other tight spaces where bigger tools can be harder to handle. It’s also easy to store since it doesn’t take up much room in the garage or shed. Overall, it’s a useful tool for maintaining the yard and keeping everything looking neat.”

– Detail-Oriented Homeowner

Complete Buying Guide for Best Lawn Mower For St Augustine Grass

Essential Factors We Consider

When looking for the best lawn mower for St. Augustine grass, we focus on a few key elements that directly impact the health and appearance of this specific turf type. The most crucial factor is the cutting mechanism; St. Augustine grass benefits immensely from a clean, scissor-like cut that reel mowers provide. This prevents tearing and bruising of the grass blades, which can lead to disease and stress. We also consider the cutting height adjustability, as St. Augustine grass prefers to be cut higher than many other lawn types. Maneuverability is also important, especially for yards with landscaping or uneven terrain, so lighter mowers with good wheel design are favored. Finally, ease of use and maintenance are paramount, ensuring that keeping your lawn looking great doesn’t become a chore.

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Budget Planning

The best lawn mower for St. Augustine grass can range from budget-friendly manual reel mowers to more advanced electric or gas-powered options. For those on a tighter budget, high-quality manual reel mowers, like the Earthwise model, offer excellent performance at a lower price point. If you’re willing to invest a bit more, electric or battery-powered mowers can offer more convenience and power, though they typically come with a higher upfront cost. Consider the long-term value; a mower that provides a superior cut and lasts for years can be a better investment. Don’t forget to factor in potential ongoing costs like maintenance or replacement parts.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right lawn mower is essential for maintaining a beautiful St. Augustine lawn. Reel mowers are often the top recommendation due to their clean cutting action, which is vital for this grass type. However, powered options can also be suitable if they offer the right cutting height and a quality blade system. Always consider your lawn’s size, your physical capabilities, and your budget when making your final decision. A well-chosen mower will make lawn care easier and contribute to a healthier, more vibrant St. Augustine lawn year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best type of mower for St. Augustine grass?

A: Generally, reel mowers are considered the best for St. Augustine grass because they provide a clean, scissor-like cut that is gentle on the grass blades. This minimizes tearing and stress, promoting a healthier lawn. However, some rotary mowers with high-quality blades and adjustable cutting heights can also work well, provided they can be set to cut at 3-4 inches.

Q: How high should I cut my St. Augustine grass?

A: St. Augustine grass prefers to be cut at a higher setting, typically between 3 to 4 inches. Cutting it too short can weaken the grass and make it more susceptible to weeds and pests. Always check your mower’s specifications to ensure it can achieve these higher cutting heights.

Q: Are electric or battery-powered mowers good for St. Augustine grass?

A: Yes, electric or battery-powered mowers can be excellent choices, especially if they offer a clean cut and adjustable height settings. They are eco-friendly, quieter than gas mowers, and often require less maintenance. Just ensure the model you choose is powerful enough and can maintain the preferred cutting height for St. Augustine grass.

Q: How often should I mow my St. Augustine grass?

A: The frequency of mowing depends on the grass’s growth rate, which is influenced by weather and soil conditions. Generally, you should mow St. Augustine grass when it has grown about one-third to one-half of an inch since the last cut. During peak growing seasons, this might mean mowing once a week, while growth slows down in cooler months.

Q: What should I do if my St. Augustine grass gets too tall before mowing?

A: If your St. Augustine grass has grown significantly tall, it’s best to avoid cutting off more than one-third of the grass blade at once. You might need to mow it in multiple passes over a few days, gradually lowering the cutting height each time. For extremely overgrown areas, using a string trimmer or a more powerful mower first might be necessary before switching to your preferred mower for a clean finish.

Finding the perfect lawn mower for your St. Augustine grass doesn’t have to be a chore. By focusing on mowers that offer a clean cut and appropriate cutting heights, you can keep your lawn looking its absolute best. Whether you opt for the precise cut of a reel mower or the convenience of a modern electric model, the key is to choose a tool that respects the needs of your St. Augustine turf. Browse through our top picks and find the mower that will help you achieve that lush, green carpet you’ve always wanted!