Bermuda grass is one of the best lawn types for reel mowing. It grows aggressively, thrives at low heights, and responds exceptionally well to a clean, precise cut. Unlike rotary mowers that tear grass blades, reel mowers use a scissor-like action, which helps Bermuda grass stay healthy, dense, and visually appealing.
Below are five of the best reel mowers for Bermuda grass.
Best Reel Mower for Bermuda Grass
1. Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower (18-Inch)
This is widely considered one of the most advanced manual reel mowers available. It combines cutting efficiency with ease of use, making it a top choice for homeowners who want professional-level results.
Key Features:
- 18-inch cutting width for faster coverage
- StaySharp cutting system reduces blade wear
- InertiaDrive technology for extra cutting power
- Adjustable cutting height suitable for low Bermuda cuts
- Large wheels for smooth movement across the lawn
Why it’s great for Bermuda grass:
It handles thick and slightly overgrown Bermuda better than most reel mowers. The added power makes pushing easier, even when the grass is dense.
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2. Great States 16-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower
This is a simple, no-frills option that gets the job done at an affordable price. It’s best suited for smaller lawns that are maintained regularly.
Key Features:
- 16-inch cutting width
- 5-blade reel for clean cutting
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Adjustable cutting height
- Durable steel blades
Why it’s great for Bermuda grass:
It provides a clean cut when the lawn is maintained frequently. While it may struggle with overgrown grass, it performs well on short, well-kept Bermuda.
3. Earthwise 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Mower
This mower stands out because of its 7-blade reel, which is ideal for fine, low-cut grass like Bermuda. More blades mean a tighter and cleaner cut.
Key Features:
- 7-blade reel for superior cutting precision
- Designed for dense and thick turf
- Low cutting height capability
- Durable steel construction
- Comfortable ergonomic handle
Why it’s great for Bermuda grass:
The higher blade count produces a smoother finish, making it perfect for lawns maintained at very low heights.
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4. Scotts 20-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower
If you have a larger lawn, this mower helps you cover more ground quickly thanks to its wide cutting deck.
Key Features:
- 20-inch cutting width for faster mowing
- 5-blade ball-bearing reel
- Adjustable cutting height
- Ergonomic handle for comfort
- Heat-treated alloy steel blades
Why it’s great for Bermuda grass:
It balances efficiency and performance, making it ideal for medium to large lawns that need regular mowing.
5. Sun Joe 18-Inch Manual Reel Mower
This mower is designed for ease of use. It’s lightweight and smooth to push, making it a good choice for beginners or those who prefer minimal effort.
Key Features:
- 18-inch cutting width
- Lightweight four-wheel design
- Adjustable cutting height
- Rear grass catcher included
- Foam grip handle for comfort
Why it’s great for Bermuda grass:
It’s easy to handle and works well for regular maintenance, especially on flat lawns.
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Why Reel Mowers Work Best for Bermuda Grass
Bermuda grass thrives when cut short and frequently. Reel mowers are uniquely suited for this because they:
- Deliver a clean, scissor-like cut
- Reduce stress and damage to grass blades
- Promote thicker and healthier growth
- Operate quietly and without fuel or electricity
- Require less maintenance compared to powered mowers
However, reel mowers perform best when the lawn is kept under control. If Bermuda grass becomes too tall, it can be harder to cut and push through.
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What to Look for in a Reel Mower for Bermuda Grass
Blade Count
Blade count directly affects cut quality.
- 5 blades are suitable for general use
- 7 blades provide a finer, cleaner cut ideal for Bermuda
Cutting Height
Bermuda grass is typically maintained between 0.5 and 1.5 inches. Choose a mower that can cut at these lower heights.
Cutting Width
- Smaller widths (14–16 inches) are best for small lawns
- Wider decks (18–20 inches) are better for larger areas
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Ease of Use
Some reel mowers are heavier but more powerful, while others are lightweight and easier to push. Look for features like large wheels and ergonomic handles to reduce effort.
Lawn Condition
Reel mowers work best on:
- Flat, even lawns
- Grass that is mowed frequently
- Yards without heavy debris or thick weeds
FAQs
What is the best reel mower for Bermuda grass?
The best reel mower for Bermuda grass is usually one with a 7-blade reel and the ability to cut at low heights. Bermuda grass is dense and often maintained short, so it benefits from a mower that delivers a fine, precise cut. A 7-blade reel provides a smoother, more even finish compared to lower blade counts.
Can I use a reel mower on Bermuda grass?
Yes, you can, and it’s actually one of the best choices. Reel mowers cut grass with a scissor-like action, which is ideal for Bermuda grass. This type of cut keeps the lawn healthier, encourages dense growth, and gives a clean, professional appearance.
What are the disadvantages of a reel mower?
Reel mowers do have some downsides:
- They struggle with tall or overgrown grass
- Require frequent mowing to maintain performance
- Need occasional blade adjustment and sharpening
- Work best on flat, even lawns
- Can be harder to push in thick or dense grass
They are best suited for well-maintained lawns rather than neglected or uneven areas.
Which is better, a 5-blade or 7 blade reel mower?
Both have their uses, but for Bermuda grass, a 7-blade reel mower is usually better.
- 5-blade mowers work well for slightly taller grass and general use
- 7-blade mowers provide a finer cut and are ideal for short, dense grass
If you maintain your Bermuda lawn at a low height, the 7-blade option will give better results.
How many blades are best for a reel mower?
The ideal blade count depends on your lawn:
- 4 to 5 blades: Good for general-purpose mowing
- 6 to 7 blades: Best for dense, low-cut grass like Bermuda
- 10 blades: Used for extremely fine cuts, such as golf greens
In general, the shorter you want your grass, the more blades you should choose.
What is the 1/3 rule for Bermuda?
The 1/3 rule means you should never cut more than one-third of the grass height in a single mowing.
For example, if your Bermuda grass is 1.5 inches tall, you should only remove about 0.5 inches. Following this rule helps prevent stress, keeps the lawn healthy, and ensures better results when using a reel mower.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best reel mower for Bermuda grass comes down to how you maintain your lawn and the size of your yard.
If you want top-tier performance with minimal effort, the Fiskars StaySharp Max is a strong choice. For a finer, cleaner cut at very low heights, a 7-blade model like the Earthwise is ideal.
If you’re working with a tighter budget, the Great States mower offers solid performance for smaller lawns. For larger areas, the Scotts 20-inch model helps you mow faster, while the Sun Joe provides a lightweight and user-friendly experience.
No matter which option you choose, consistency is key. Reel mowers reward regular mowing, and with Bermuda grass, that means keeping it short, neat, and healthy all season long.
