Landscaping is not a get-rich-quick scheme; your equipment – if chosen wisely – will be with you for the long haul. A mower is likely to be the backbone of your business, so invest the time and money you need to get the right one. Here are tips on what to look for:

Proper size
“A lot of landscapers assume that bigger is better – both in deck size and horsepower,” says “Dusty” Dust, product manager, Ferris Industries. “But they don’t look at how many of their jobs are 1/2-acre lots with 36-inch gates or lots of trees. Grass isn’t that tough, it doesn’t take much horsepower to cut it. And for many landscapers, especially if they have residential jobs, a 48-inch machine could actually be more productive than a 60inch one. You can save a lot of unproductive work by sizing your mower to your actual needs.”

Heavy-duty construction
Chris Frame, of Scag Power Equipment, says to look for full-length, welded steel tube frames which provide a strong base for a commercial mower. “Tough commercial cutting conditions require a solid foundation if the machine is going to provide years of dependable use,” he says.

Ergonomics and operator comfort
Ergonomics aren’t just for those at desk jobs; a mower operator can be on or behind the mower all day, so the ergonomics can make a huge difference in productivity and comfort – and can help reduce workman’s compensation claims or missed work. Ease of mount and dismount should also be considered.

Maneuverability
The more maneuverable the mower, the less labor-intensive hand work will be required.

A top-notch cutter deck
“A well-engineered and constructed cutter deck with proper blade tip speeds and deck baffling is the way to achieve this,” Frame notes. “In regards to durability, fabricated, welded decks are the best choice for commercial use. Marbain blades stay sharper longer and maintain a precise cutting edge.”

“A quick deck height adjustment is important, too,” adds Jenna Warrenfeltz, of Wright Manufacturing.

Reliability, parts and service
Mowers aren’t disposable; look for mowers with a past history of reliability and a dealer who is capable of making repairs and supplying parts.
–Lisa Anderson Mann