7 Best Mowers for Zoysia Grass [2024 Proven Picks]

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on selecting the best mower for Zoysia grass. As a seasoned lawn care expert with over a decade of turf management experience, I understand Zoysia grass’s unique needs.

This guide cuts straight to the chase, providing you with practical, expert-backed recommendations to ensure your Zoysia lawn remains in peak condition.

Trust in my expertise as we navigate the options together, ensuring you make an informed decision for your lawn care needs. Let’s dive right in.

Top 7 Mowers for Zoysia Grass – Our Choice

1. Fiskars StaySharp Max
2. Black+Decker Mower
3. American Reel Mower
4. Sun Joe Manual Mower
5. Scotts 2000-20S Reel Mower
6. Craftsman Mower
7. SnapFresh 2-in-1 Cordless Mower

1. Fiskars StaySharp Max Review

The Fiskars StaySharp Max stands out as an exceptional choice for keeping your Zoysia grass in top condition.

Its innovative StaySharp cutting system sets it apart, which ensures long-lasting performance without the hassle of yearly blade sharpening. Its user-friendly design, enhanced by advanced technology, makes lawn care a breeze.

The mower’s InertiaDrive reel is particularly impressive, offering double the cutting power of typical reel lawn mowers. This means it can easily handle challenging areas, ensuring a smooth and uniform cut every time.

Its unique grass discharge chute is cleverly designed to propel clippings forward, keeping them away from your feet and maintaining a clean working area.

Product Specs:

• StaySharp Cutting System
• InertiaDrive Reel
• Unique Grass Discharge Chute

Pros:

• Long-lasting performance
• Efficient cutting power
• Clean grass discharge

Cons:

• Requires more effort compared to gas-powered mowers
• May struggle with very tall grass
• Higher price tag than some competitors.

2. Black+Decker Mower Review

Next, let’s explore the Black+Decker Mower and its suitability for Zoysia grass care. Our evaluation reveals that this mower is a reliable option for such lawns.

Being electric, it eliminates the need for fuel, adding to its convenience. Its compact design is a significant advantage, allowing for effortless navigation across your lawn.

Plus, its lightweight nature ensures that mowing is a comfortable and sweat-free experience.

A standout feature of the Black+Decker Mower is its six height adjustments, offering precise control for the perfect Zoysia grass trim. However, it’s worth noting that its bagging capability may not match the efficiency of larger, gas-powered alternatives.

Product specs:

• Electric power
• Compact design
• 6 height adjustments

Pros:

• Fuel-free
• Easy to maneuver
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Bagging feature could be improved

3. American Reel Mower Review

Now, let’s focus on the American Reel Mower, an excellent choice for maintaining Zoysia grass. This manual, push-style mower is engineered to provide a neat and accurate cut, ideal for Zoysia grass’s thick and delicate texture.

A notable aspect of the American Reel Mower is its adjustable blade height feature. This flexibility lets you adjust the cutting height precisely, ensuring it meets the specific requirements of your lawn.

Additionally, its lightweight design and ease of maneuverability make it a suitable option for smaller lawns or gardens with detailed landscaping.

Product Specs:

• Manual, push mower
• Adjustable blade height
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver

Pros:

• Provides a clean, precise cut
• Adjustable blade height for customization
• Ideal for smaller lawns and intricate landscaping

Cons:

• May require more effort to push than powered mowers
• Not ideal for larger lawns
• Blades may require regular sharpening

4. Sun Joe Manual Mower Review

Continuing our review series, we turn to the Sun Joe Manual Mower, an adaptable and efficient tool for Zoysia grass care. Its compact structure simplifies storage and enhances maneuverability, making it perfect for small to medium-sized yards.

Moreover, this mower is environmentally friendly, operating manually to cut down on emissions and noise.

The Sun Joe Manual Mower features a 16-inch wide cutting path and an adjustable blade height, enabling precise lawn mowing. Despite being manually operated, it is surprisingly user-friendly and easy to push, courtesy of its durable all-terrain wheels.

In our assessment, it stands out as a dependable and economical choice for the upkeep of Zoysia grass.

Product Specs:

• 16-inch wide cutting path
• Adjustable blade height
• Manual operation
• All-terrain wheels

Pros:

• Compact and easy to store
• Eco-friendly
• Precise mowing

Cons:

• May require more physical effort
• Not ideal for large lawns
• Limited to manual operation.

5. Scotts 2000-20S Reel Mower Review

Delving deeper into our series of reviews, the Scotts 2000-20S Reel Mower emerges as a superb choice for Zoysia grass care.

Its design is tailored for delivering clean and accurate cuts, crucial for maintaining a healthy lawn. With a 20-inch cutting width, this mower is particularly effective for larger lawns.

A key feature of the Scotts 2000-20S is its range of nine grass height settings, varying from 1 to 3 inches. This versatility allows for tailored management of your Zoysia grass.

The mower’s dual tracking wheels and robust radial tires are impressive, enhancing both stability and maneuverability. Remarkably, for a manual mower, it glides easily across the lawn, making the mowing process smooth and effortless.

Product Specs:

• 20-inch cutting width
• Height adjustment from 1 to 3 inches
• Dual tracking wheels and rugged radial tires

Pros:

• Efficient for larger yards
• Easy to maneuver
• Allows for precise cuts

Cons:

• Manual operation may be tiring for some
• May struggle with uneven terrain
• Requires regular blade sharpening

6. Craftsman Mower Review

Turning our attention to the Craftsman Mower, we’re excited to discuss its capabilities with Zoysia grass. Our experience with the Craftsman Mower has been notably positive.

Its robust engine and an elevated cutting deck ensure both efficiency and comfort during mowing. In our tests, it adeptly managed Zoysia grass, achieving a clean and uniform cut.

It’s important to note, though, that this mower might not be the ideal fit for smaller gardens due to its need for more maneuvering space.

In conclusion, for larger lawns with Zoysia grass, the Craftsman Mower stands out as an excellent choice, delivering in terms of power, precision, and overall performance.

Product specs:

• High cutting deck
• Powerful engine
• Designed for larger lawns

Pros:

• Handles Zoysia grass efficiently
• Provides neat, even cut
• Comfortable to use

Cons:

• May not be suitable for smaller gardens
• Requires space to maneuver.

7. SnapFresh 2-in-1 Cordless Review

Now, let’s focus on the SnapFresh 2-in-1 Cordless Mower and its effectiveness with Zoysia grass. This mower is a superb option for those who prioritize convenience and adaptability.

Its cordless nature facilitates effortless movement around the lawn, eliminating the hassle of dealing with entangled cords. Additionally, its versatile 2-in-1 design enables easy switching between mowing and trimming tasks.

Equipped with a potent battery, the SnapFresh mower offers prolonged operation, which is ideal for tackling the dense and slow-growing Zoysia grass.

Despite its powerful performance, it remains remarkably lightweight and user-friendly, positioning it as an ideal choice for those with medium-sized or smaller lawns.

Product Specs: 

• Cordless
• 2-in-1 mower and trimmer
• Powerful battery
• Lightweight design

Pros: 

• Easy to maneuver 
• Versatile 
• Long run time
• Suitable for medium to small lawns

Cons:

• Might not be ideal for larger lawns
• Battery life can be shorter when dealing with dense grass

How We Chose the Best Mower For Zoysia Grass

In determining the top lawn mower for Zoysia grass, I considered several key factors.

I prioritized performance, ease of use, durability, build quality, features and technology, and maintenance requirements.

Each of these elements played a crucial role in my final decision.

Also Read:

• Best Zero Turn Mower for Rough Terrain
• Best Mower for Bermuda Grass: Mow with Confidence
• Best Electric Reel Mower Revealed: Eco-Friendly Excellence

Performance

Evaluating the performance of various lawn mowers, I’ve prioritized features such as power, cutting width, and ease of use to select the best for taming Zoysia grass.

Mower speed is crucial, as a faster speed allows for quicker, more efficient mowing. Grass adaptability is equally important; the mower must smoothly cut the tough, dense Zoysia grass.

Mower maneuverability is key in navigating around your lawn’s unique landscape. Blade sharpness also plays a significant role. A sharp blade provides clean cuts, promoting healthier grass growth.

Lastly, weather resistance was considered. The best mowers can withstand the elements, ensuring longevity and performance. These factors combined helped me identify the top performers.

Ease of Use

A comfortable grip is a must-have for prolonged mowing sessions, reducing hand fatigue and ensuring a secure hold.

Maneuverability factors, such as lightweight design and adjustable handles, played a significant role in my choices, making it easier to navigate around obstacles.

I also looked for user-friendly controls that are intuitive and easy to access.

The assembly process was another consideration; I favored models that are simple to put together with minimal tools.

Durability and Build Quality

I’ve put a lot of emphasis on durability and build quality when selecting the best lawn mowers for Zoysia grass. I believe these are vital considerations if you’re looking for a mower that can withstand the rigors of maintaining such a lush and thick grass.

Here’s what I focused on:

• Material Resilience: Opted for mowers constructed with sturdy, durable materials that can withstand a beating.
• Weather Resistance: The best models can resist harsh weather conditions, prolonging their lifespan.
• Assembly Quality: Mowers with excellent assembly quality were preferred, as they’re less likely to break down.
• Lifespan Expectancy: Considered the manufacturer’s estimated lifespan for each mower.
• Brand Reliability: Chose brands known for their reliability and excellent customer service.

Features and Technology

I looked for models with smart mowing capabilities, which make lawn maintenance easier by adjusting cutting height and speed based on grass type and condition.

Innovative design was another key factor, with top marks given to mowers that had advanced settings for customized mowing.

User friendly interface was a must, allowing for easy operation and setting adjustment.

Lastly, in line with today’s growing environmental concerns, I prioritized models featuring eco friendly technology, designed to minimize environmental impact.

These features and technologies made my selection process more comprehensive and ensured I chose the best for you.

Maintenance and Cleaning

After narrowing down several options, I also considered how easy each lawn mower is to maintain and clean.

Here’s what I looked for:

• Proper storage: I assessed if the machine can be easily stored without risk of damage.
• Blade sharpening: The ease of this process is crucial as it significantly affects the mower’s performance.
• Seasonal maintenance: I checked whether the mowers require much upkeep for different seasons.
• Cleaning techniques: I took into account how simple it’s to clean the machinery without causing harm.
• Preventive measures: Lastly, I considered how well each model is built to prevent common issues.
• It’s not just about choosing the best performing lawn mower, but also selecting one that’s easy to maintain and clean.

Noise Level and Vibration

Noise reduction was a crucial factor in my selection process. I looked for machines that minimized sound pollution, allowing users to maintain their lawns without disturbing the peace in their surroundings.

Vibration control was another key point; I sought out mowers with anti-vibration handles that absorb shock, making it easier to maneuver the machine for extended periods. The aim was to ensure user comfort and reduce strain during operation.

In all my evaluations, I prioritized the user’s comfort and the impact of the mower on the environment.

Fuel Efficiency and Battery Life

• Fuel types: I looked at mowers that use various types of fuel like gasoline, propane, and electricity. It’s important to know what’s best for your yard and environment.
• Battery brands: Some brands are known for their long-lasting batteries. I focused on these.
• Charging speed: A mower with a fast-charging battery saves time, which I valued.
• Fuel consumption: Fuel-efficient mowers aren’t just eco-friendly, they also save money.
• Battery disposal: It’s crucial to choose mowers with batteries that are easy and safe to dispose of, to reduce environmental impact.

Price and Value for Money

When it came to price and overall value for money, I was meticulous in choosing the best mowers for Zoysia grass. Budget considerations were, of course, top of mind.

I compared the initial investment required for each mower, weighing it against their performance, durability, and maintenance needs.

This cost comparison wasn’t just about the upfront price, but also recurring expenses. I factored in everything from fuel or electricity costs to parts replacements.

Through a detailed value assessment, I was able to identify models that offered the most bang for your buck.

Environmental Impact

I’ve also considered the environmental impact of each mower in my selection process. I was mindful of the need to balance performance with sustainability, so I assessed each model based on the following:

• Sustainable Manufacturing: I favored mowers made through processes that minimize waste and energy consumption.
• Carbon Footprint: I assessed how much greenhouse gas emissions each mower contributes, both in production and use.
• Recyclability Potential: I looked for mowers built with materials that can be reused or recycled at the end of their lifecycle.
• Eco friendly Disposal: I considered how easy and environmentally friendly it’s to dispose of each mower once it’s no longer useful.
• Water Conservation: I chose mowers that don’t require water for cooling or cleaning, thus conserving this precious resource.

In this way, I ensured the mowers I picked are gentle on our planet.

Customer Support and Warranty

In choosing the top lawn mowers for Zoysia grass, I didn’t just focus on performance and environmental impact — I also gave serious consideration to the level of customer support and the warranty offered by the manufacturers.

I examined the warranty terms closely, assessing the duration and what exactly was covered. I also scrutinized the support accessibility, ensuring manufacturers had multiple methods of contact.

The claim process was another key factor — I looked for a straightforward, hassle-free system.

The ease of product registration and availability of after-sales services were also evaluated.

Therefore, the companies that topped my list didn’t just offer superior products, but also stood behind them with comprehensive customer support and warranties.

Essential Buying Guide

When shopping for the perfect mower for Zoysia grass, we can’t ignore certain key features that make a significant difference.

It’s crucial to examine the cutting mechanism, cutting height adjustability, deck size and maneuverability, and grass clipping management.

Also, durability and maintenance are important factors that ensure the longevity of the mower and its overall efficiency.

Also Read: Best Push Mowers for Large Yards

Consider the Cutting Mechanism

In choosing the best mower for Zoysia grass, we’ve got to consider the cutting mechanism as it’s a crucial factor in ensuring optimal lawn maintenance.

1. Reel Mowers: These mowers cut grass like a pair of scissors, providing a clean cut. They’re perfect for Zoysia grass because they help prevent the spread of lawn diseases.
2. Rotary Mowers: These have a high-speed blade that cuts the grass by impact. If you’ve got a large lawn, these mowers are a good choice but they may leave a ragged edge, which can expose your lawn to diseases.
3. Cylinder Mowers: These are similar to reel mowers and work best on flat surfaces.

“I switched to a reel mower for my Zoysia grass and the difference was incredible. The Fiskars StaySharp Max gave a clean cut, making my lawn healthier and more vibrant. Its ease of use and long-lasting sharpness were major pluses. Although it requires more effort than a gas mower, the environmental benefits and the perfect look of my lawn make it totally worth it.”
Travis B – Ann Arbor MI

Cutting Height Adjustability

We’ve got to highlight that one of the crucial factors to consider when buying a mower for Zoysia grass is the cutting height adjustability.

This feature allows you to adjust the height at which the grass is cut, which is essential for maintaining the health and appearance of your lawn.

The ideal cutting height for Zoysia grass is typically between 1 and 2 inches.

A mower with cutting height adjustability allows you to keep your grass at the optimal height throughout the growing season.

Remember, maintaining the right height not only improves the look of your lawn, but also its resistance to pests and disease.

Deck Size and Maneuverability

While you’re out shopping for the perfect mower, it’s important to consider the deck size and the ease of maneuverability.

1. Deck Size: The deck size determines the cutting width of the mower. A larger deck size can reduce mowing time, but mightn’t be as effective in tight spaces. For Zoysia grass, we recommend a medium-sized deck for optimal efficiency.
2. Maneuverability: A mower with good maneuverability allows for easy turns and navigation around your yard. Look for features like zero-turn radii and responsive controls.
3. Balance: The best mower for Zoysia grass balances both these aspects. It should be easy to control, yet still cover a decent area.

Grass Clipping Management

After considering deck size and maneuverability, it’s crucial we turn our attention towards grass clipping management. Choosing a mower with a suitable clipping management system is a game-changer.

For Zoysia grass, opt for mowers that offer mulching capabilities. Mulching mowers finely chop the grass clippings and redistribute them back onto the lawn, providing essential nutrients. Plus, it eliminates the need for bagging and disposal of grass clippings.

However, if you prefer a clean look, a bagging system might be a better option for you.

Remember, frequent emptying of the bag is required to maintain effective mowing. Therefore, balance your preference for lawn appearance with the workload you’re willing to take on.

Durability and Maintenance

So, how do we ensure our chosen mower will stand the test of time and demand minimal upkeep? Let’s delve into the essential factors to consider:

1. Material Construction: Opt for mowers with stainless steel or aluminum bodies. They’re resistant to rust and generally more durable.
2. Ease of Maintenance: Look for models that require little maintenance. This often means easy access to replaceable parts, and simple cleaning procedures.
3. Warranty: A good warranty period is indicative of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability.

User-Friendly Features

Beyond durability, we also need to consider the user-friendly features that can make mowing our Zoysia grass a breeze.

It’s crucial to look for a mower with adjustable cutting heights. Zoysia grass thrives when it’s cut between 1 to 2 inches, so a mower that can easily adjust to these lengths is ideal.

A mower with a bagging option can be handy, allowing us to collect clippings while we mow, saving time and keeping our lawn tidy.

We’d also recommend a self-propelled mower for larger lawns. This feature reduces physical effort and makes mowing less taxing.

Our Verdict

In my journey to find the best mower for Zoysia grass, I’ve explored various options, from the precision of the Fiskars StaySharp Max to the convenience of the SnapFresh 2-in-1 Cordless Mower.

I’ve been impressed by the Fiskars for their durability and ease of use. It’s a game-changer for those who, like me, prefer a meticulous lawn without the hassle of frequent blade sharpening.

However, I’d lean towards the Sun Joe Manual Mower for smaller lawns for its eco-friendliness and simplicity. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your lawn’s size and your personal preferences.

My advice? Consider your specific needs and choose a mower that makes lawn care effective and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions