Comprehensive Guide to Lawn Mowers at B&Q: Selecting the Perfect Mower for Your Needs

Lawn mowers are an essential tool for maintaining a healthy and lush lawn. With a wide variety of options available, choosing the right lawn mower for your specific needs can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when purchasing a lawn mower from B&Q.

Understanding Different Types of Lawn Mowers

1. Rotary Mowers:

• Most common type
• Utilize rotating blades to cut grass
• Ideal for small to medium-sized lawns

2. Cylinder Mowers:

• Use a series of rotating cylinders with fixed blades
• Provide a cleaner, striped finish
• Suitable for formal lawns and lawns with obstacles

3. Hover Mowers:

• Float on a cushion of air
• Easy to maneuver on uneven surfaces
• Best for small, flat lawns

4. Ride-on Mowers:

• Designed for large lawns
• Offer greater speed and convenience
• More expensive than other types

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Lawn Mower

1. Lawn Size:

• Determine the size of your lawn to estimate the appropriate cutting width.
• For example:
  • Small lawns (up to 500 sq. m): 35-40 cm cutting width
  • Medium lawns (500-1,500 sq. m): 45-50 cm cutting width
  • Large lawns (over 1,500 sq. m): 55-60 cm cutting width

2. Grass Type:

• Choose a mower with the appropriate blade design for your grass type.
• Rotary mowers are suitable for most grass types.
• Cylinder mowers are better for finer grass, such as fescues and bentgrasses.

3. Terrain:

• Consider the slope and obstacles on your lawn.
• Hover mowers are ideal for uneven or sloping lawns.
• Ride-on mowers are best for large, open lawns.

4. Features:

• Decide which features are important to you, such as:
  • Electric start
  • Self-propelled drive
  • Mulching capability
  • Adjustable cutting height

B&Q Lawn Mower Range

B&Q offers a wide range of lawn mowers to suit different needs and budgets. Here are some popular models:

1. Electric Lawn Mowers:

• Quiet and emission-free
• Ideal for small to medium lawns

2. Petrol Lawn Mowers:

• More powerful than electric mowers
• Suitable for larger lawns

3. Cordless Lawn Mowers:

• Offer greater freedom and flexibility
• Best for small to medium lawns

4. Robot Lawn Mowers:

• Automated mowing experience
• Suitable for lawns up to 2,000 sq. m

Cost of Lawn Mowers from B&Q

The cost of a lawn mower from B&Q varies depending on the type, size, and features. Here is a general price range:

Maintenance of Lawn Mowers

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your lawn mower. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

• Clean the deck after every use
• Replace blades every 1-2 years
• Check and replace spark plugs (petrol mowers)
• Store the mower in a dry place during winter

Stories and Lessons Learned

1. The Overzealous Lawn Mower:

John was excited to use his new lawn mower. However, in his eagerness to get the perfect cut, he set the blade height too low. As a result, he scalped his lawn, leaving it damaged and vulnerable to weeds.

Lesson: Always adjust the cutting height to the recommended level for your grass type and conditions.

2. The Unplugged Electric Mower:

Sarah forgot to check the power cord before starting her electric lawn mower. As she began cutting, she tripped over the cord and accidentally unplugged the mower. This caused her to have to stop and restart multiple times, wasting time and energy.

Lesson: Always ensure that the power cord is securely plugged in before operating an electric lawn mower.

3. The Broken Ride-on Mower:

David purchased a ride-on mower for his large lawn. However, he failed to read the manual properly and neglected to maintain the mower regularly. As a result, the mower broke down on a weekend when he desperately needed to mow his lawn.

Lesson: Take the time to read the manual and follow the maintenance schedule for your lawn mower to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Effective Strategies

1. Mulching:

Mulching saves time and effort by finely cutting grass clippings and returning them to the lawn as a nutrient-rich mulch.

2. Side Discharge:

Side discharge is suitable for areas where you don't want grass clippings to accumulate, such as flower beds and driveways.

3. Rear Collection:

Rear collection allows you to collect grass clippings in a bag, which is ideal for lawns with heavy thatch or debris.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Mowing Too Short:

Mowing your lawn too short can stress the grass and make it more susceptible to disease and damage.

2. Overwatering:

Overwatering can lead to root rot and reduce the health of your lawn. Water only when necessary, and deeply.

3. Using Dull Blades:

Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting it cleanly, leaving it ragged and vulnerable to disease.

Call to Action

Choosing the right lawn mower from B&Q is essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn. By considering the factors discussed in this guide, you can make an informed decision and select the mower that best meets your needs.

Visit your local B&Q or browse their online catalog to explore their wide range of lawn mowers. With proper maintenance and use, your lawn mower will be a valuable asset in your backyard.