Best Petrol Lawn Mower For Large Gardens
Best Petrol Lawn Mower For Large GardensIf you are the proud owner of a large garden or lawn, many might say that you are fortunate to have such a generous amount of outdoor space. And this is true, however, when it comes to cutting the grass, problems can arise. This is especially true if you are not using the correct equipment; a reliable petrol lawn mower is vital for these bigger spaces.
But where do you start when looking for a petrol lawn mower that will make quick work of a large green lawn? There are several things that you will need to think about but even then, choosing a suitable lawn mower can feel like a mammoth task.
For this reason, I have put together an extensive list of the best petrol lawn mowers for large gardens and they all have an incredible amount of power and unrivalled performance.
I will also be talking you through some great tips for buying a petrol mower for your large lawn, including what features to look for and why they matter.
So, if you have struggled to maintain a trim and healthy-looking large lawn, that is all about to change.
Why Choose a Petrol Mower for Large Gardens & Lawns?
You may be asking yourself ‘Hang on, why is this guy pushing petrol mowers when they are the most expensive walk behind mowers on the market?’ But let me let you in on a little secret; if you attempt to mow your large lawn with anything else, you will not get the results you are expecting.
Electric and cordless mowers are excellent, and there are many great ones that I have tested and found to be extremely effective. However, everything is designed for a specific purpose and these mowers just aren’t cut out for massive lawns.
On the other hand, a petrol mower has the incredible power needed to tackle expansive areas with ease. Why else do you think commercial lawn care companies will only ever use petrol lawn mowers? Not only this but they are built to last so even when you really put them through their paces, they won’t let you down.
Furthermore, these mowers are also extremely adept when it comes to reaching every corner of the garden.
Unless you want to run a lengthy extension cord around your outside space, using a corded mower simply is not convenient when you have a large area to cover. Conversely, a battery lawn mower would be able to reach to the far reaches of the garden, but it is likely that the power would run out before it did. All a petrol mower needs is a quick pit stop and refill and you’re back on your way.
And speaking of going on your way; covering a bigger area can be exhausting, especially when using hefty equipment like a mower. But many petrol mowers have a self-propelled drive that make them much easier to move around and won’t leave you feeling as though you have just run a marathon.
Best Petrol Lawn Mower For Large Lawns List
So, now that you know the benefits of using a powerful and robust petrol mower, let’s get down to the exciting stuff and look at some of the best petrol mowers for large lawns.
In a hurry? Here is a list of my Best Petrol Lawn Mowers for Large Lawns.
Below are more details of these petrol mowers with links to full in-depth reviews. Although I highly rate the petrol mowers below for large lawns, you may want to use the filters below to narrow the selection down to meet your exact requirements.
Petrol Lawn Mowers For Large Gardens Reviews
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Grass Box Full Indicator
✅ Hose Wash Port
✅ Larger Rear Wheels
✅ Safety Key
✅ Self Propelled
✅ Variable Speed
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
This is a self-propelled mower and one of the most remarkable things about it is that it has a choice of four drive speeds. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll around the lawn as you cut it or get the job done quickly, you have the freedom to choose.
The Hyundai HYM510SPE runs on a powerful 139cc engine, which admittedly isn’t as powerful as some of the competition but the quality is there and that outdoes everything. This is a four-stroke engine which does not put out high emissions and is pretty quiet. What’s more, it is light on fuel and extremely reliable. You can rest assured that you won’t be having to replace it any time soon!
But what else makes this great for big gardens? Well, the 51cm deck is a good starting point, it gives you excellent coverage with each pass and with a choice of six cutting heights, you have control over how short you want to trim your grass. The Hyundai HYM510SPE also comes with an enormous 70-litre grass bag meaning you won’t be continually stopping to empty it. This is easy to get on and off, saving you even more time.
Main Features
- Electric push button start (with recoil starter backup)
- Self propelled with 4-speed settings
- Powerful 173 cc engine
- 4-in-1 cutting features
- Low emission
- Low fuel consumption
- Reliable motor
- Good build quality with quality components
- Large 70 L easy release grass box
- OPC safety lever
- Easy height adjustment
Conclusion
This Hyundai HYM510SPE is a fantastic all round mower and for those looking for the freedom and power of a petrol lawn mower, but with the added benefit of features that will actually help to make mowing your lawn that much more enjoyable this mower is a great choice. Combine the added features of the electric start, low noise, reliability and power of Hyundai engines, great range of height settings…. Oh, did I mention the 4-in-1 cutting options and the variable 4 speeds?
All in all, you will not be disappointed with this petrol lawn mower from Hyundai.
Click the “Full Review Here” button below for a full in-depth review of this Hyundai HYM510SPE.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Hose Wash Port
✅ Larger Rear Wheels
✅ Self Propelled
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
This Murray EQ700X is another excellent choice if you are looking for a petrol mower for your large garden. One of the most notable features is the robust and reliable Briggs and Stratton engine; if you’re new to motors then let me assure you that this is one of the most reputable names in the business.
This Murray EQ700X mower has a huge 53cm cutting width and a choice of six cutting heights ranging between 28mm and 92mm; I’d say that was versatile enough for even the most demanding gardener.
It also features large rear wheels which give it excellent stability, particularly if you are going to be using it on anything but perfectly even terrain.
Main Features
- 4 in 1 cutting system
- 53cm cutting width
- 70-litre grass collection bag
- Powerful engine
- 6 cutting heights
- Self-propelled
- 2-year warranty
Conclusion
Self-propelled mowers are a great alternative to a manual push mower for many reasons and when we look at the great things that the EQ700X has to offer, it’s not hard to see why there are a lot of people raving about this piece of equipment.
With a Briggs and Stratton engine, you know you’re getting the best when it comes to power and longevity and the handsome cutting width and range of cutting heights make this something of a mean machine.
There aren’t many other mowers that can lay claim to the things that this Murray EQ700X can and I’d certainly put it up there with some of the best in this category.
Click the “Full Review Here” button below for a full in-depth review of this Murray EQ700X.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Grass Box Full Indicator
✅ Hose Wash Port
✅ Larger Rear Wheels
✅ Self Propelled
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
If you are looking for a petrol mower that exudes power and delivers impeccable performance, then the STIGA Combi is an excellent choice. It is packed with features that make it ideal for large gardens. However, if you have a smaller garden, the mower does have a younger brother, the Stiga Combi 50 SQ which has a 48cm deck.
The features are much the same and when you look at the efficiency of this range, it is not difficult to see why this mower has received such a large amount of praise.
With a huge 70-litre grass box, five cutting heights and a robust steel shell, you are getting durability, convenience and ease of use all rolled into one. On top of this, you are getting a self-propelled drive with dynamic speed control making this a delight to use.
This is also an incredibly diverse machine thanks to the 4-in-1 mowing features allowing you to cut the lawn in a way that suits you.
Main Features
- 4-in-1 cutting options
- 53cm cutting width
- Five cutting heights
- Dynamic speed control
- 70-litre grass box
- Folding ergonomic handle
- Larger rear wheels
- Lightweight
Conclusion
The STIGA Combi 55 SQ is a lightweight yet incredibly durable piece of equipment that has been designed with more significant lawn spaces in mind. It has a handsome cutting width and a range of cutting heights that are easy to adjust, making this a versatile machine. But that versatility doesn’t end there.
This mower also allows you to cut the grass in several ways such as collection in the large grass bag, side and rear discharge and it comes with a mulching plug.
It is powerful and performs incredibly well. It has a 166cc engine which is ideal for this type of equipment and a self-propelled drive that is second to none.
There isn’t a lot that you could say to put this mower down, it just does what you would expect it to do and it does it without a fuss.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Grass Box Full Indicator
✅ Larger Rear Wheels
✅ Safety Key
✅ Self Propelled
✅ Variable Speed
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
This P1PE P5100SPE lawn mower comes with a Hyundai engine with 173cc of power and a 1.1 litre fuel tank. This reassures you in two ways; you won’t need to keep stopping to refill it and you know that it is going to have the power to perform well, even if the grass is a little more challenging to cut.
On top of a cut and collect system, you also have the option to use both a side discharge chute as well as the handy mulching plug that is included with the mower.
The P1PE P5100SPE is exceptionally easy to use thanks to the self-propelled drive but also owing to the easy start function. It has an electric key start which is both safe and efficient and this is backed up by a recoil start should you need it.
Main Features
- Hyundai 173 cc 6 hp motor
- Self-propelled
- 51cm cutting width
- Electric starter
- 60 L grass bag
- Low noise
- 7 cutting heights
- 2-year manufactures warranty
Conclusion
The P5100 SPE has good spares and parts backup and comes with a 2-year warranty from P1PE. Another benefit of this P1PE P5100SPE mower is that it operates without too much noise.
The P1PE P5100SPE has a good 51cm cutting width so is great on larger gardens. It has a respectable 1.1 L fuel tank and the engine is fuel efficient. You can select from 7 cutting heights from 25mm up to 85mm. The adjustment lever is quick and easy to change.
Click the “Full Review Here” button below for a full in-depth review of this P1PE P5100SPE.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Grass Box Full Indicator
✅ Larger Rear Wheels
✅ Self Propelled
✅ Variable Speed
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
One of the most useful things on a self-propelled mower is having variable speed options and this one offers that perfectly. This allows you to have greater control over mowing and to go at a pace that suits you.
You have the choice of collecting the grass clippings in the ginormous 70-litre collection bag, or you might decide to make use of the mulching plug or side discharge chute.
The OHV engine has a recoil start, and in most cases, the pull action is smooth and starts on the first try after priming. ParkerBrand use their 4-stroke engine in this mower, so you do not have a separate warranty company to deal with if you have a problem.
Main Features
- Weight: 42.7 Kg (94.14lb)
- Engine: 173cc
- Product Dimensions: 50×89×58.5 Centimetres (19×35×23in)
- Self-Propelled Drive
- Grass Collection Box: 70-Litre
- Colour: Red/Black
- Blade Length: 53 Centimetres (21in)
- Material: Steel Plate
- Fuel Tank: 1.2-Litre (42.2 imp fl. oz.)
Conclusion
I like the ParkerBrand 21, the cup holders look like a gimmick, but a justified one, that all lawn mower manufacturers should consider installing. Side-chute & mulching also makes a lot of sense, since it avoids the typical effect of the grass clippings shooting onto your shoes as you walk (as is the case with rear discharge).
The 70-litre grass box and a 1.2-litre fuel tank help to ensure that you get the job done in one trip. And the thick foam grip on the handlebar does a good job of absorbing motor vibrations. The ParkerBrand 21 is an easy-going petrol mower for a relaxing lawn mowing session. It is well built, performs well even in the toughest conditions and is great value for money.
Click the “Full Review Here” button below for a full in-depth review of this ParkerBrand 21 inch.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Grass Box Full Indicator
✅ Larger Rear Wheels
✅ Self Propelled
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
Having a self-propelled drive is no doubt an essential feature of a petrol lawn mower, but this doesn’t mean that you want to use it all the time. Having the option to disengage it like you can with this Einhell GC-PM 46 S model is a nice addition to the design. The Einhell GC-PM 46 S mower has rear wheel drive which makes it excellent for using on uneven ground or steep slopes without any issues.
Main Features
- One cylinder four-stroke 139 cc engine
- Self-propelled rear-wheel drive that can be disengaged
- 9 Cutting heights from 30mm to 80mm
- Comfortable, ergonomic and adjustable handles that fold down for easy storage
- Solid sheet steel housing with powder coating
- Large 50 L grass collection bag with a level indicator
- Easy reach recoil starter
- Suitable for medium to large gardens
Conclusion
In summary the Einhell GC-PM 46 S is a very competent petrol lawn mower that will not disappoint. This model does have smaller wheels front and back (204mm) and some may prefer the added stability of larger rear wheels. The good news is that Einhell do make this mower with larger rear wheels (280mm) and this may well be a better option if you have a very uneven lawn.
To be honest though, what ever model you choose you will be investing in a well built and efficient mower that will give years of service. Below I have added all three version of this mower so you can compare the price of each.
Click the “Full Review Here” button below for a full in-depth review of this Einhell GC-PM 46 S.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Grass Box Full Indicator
✅ Hose Wash Port
✅ Rear Roller (Stripes)
✅ Safety Key
✅ Self Propelled
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
It would appear that Hyundai has put a lot of effort and thought into the creation of this Hyundai HYM530SPER self-propelled petrol mower and once you get it started, you will feel the quality of the engine as you move. This is an OHV four-stroke engine at 173cc; it is ideal for the most massive domestic gardens and the performance is second to none.
The Hyundai HYM530SPER has a recoil backup, but the main event begins with an electric start function that is utterly effortless. Furthermore, it does not put out high emissions so if you were worried about harming the environment with a petrol mower, you don’t need to be.
There is also a handy cleaning port for connecting your hose which makes keeping on top of the cleanliness of your machine easy.
Main Features
- Powerful 4 Stroke 173cc Petrol Engine
- Full Width Rear Roller
- Self Propelled
- Rear Discharge and Cut and Collect
- Low Emission & Low Maintenance Engine
- Electric Start with Recoil Backup
- 3 Year Warranty
- Blade length: 52.5cm
- Weight: 46kg
- Number of Cutting Height: 5 (25mm to 75mm)
- Grass box capacity: 70 Litre
Conclusion
This Hyundai HYM530SPER is a fantastic mower for those looking for the freedom and power of a petrol lawn mower but with the added benefit of features that will actually help to make mowing your lawn that much more enjoyable. Combine the added features of the electric start, noise, reliability and power of Hyundai engines, great range of height settings…. Oh, did I mention the addition of a ribbed rear roller for that professional British striped lawn?
In summary, this is a lawn mower with a large deck size that can be used for medium to large sized lawns, and its large deck size of 52.5cm will ensure fewer passes and professional finish.
Click the “Full Review Here” button below for a full in-depth review of this Hyundai HYM530SPER.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Larger Rear Wheels
✅ Self Propelled
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
The Mountfield SP53 comes with a 166cc four-stroke engine which is superior in its power. This makes it ideal for larger gardens and when you couple this with the 51cm deck, it is not difficult to see why it made my list of best petrol lawn mowers for large lawns. The Mountfield SP53 features a recoil start but does not have a primer button. However, upon testing, it does start reliably.
The foldable handles fold at two points, the mid and at the lower deck point, which make this a delight when it comes to storage and there is a choice of rear discharge, mulching mode or cut and collect in the 60-litre grass box. These cutting options will ensure your Mountfield SP53 mower will work effectively and efficiently during all seasons and lawn conditions.
Main Features
- Weight: 34 Kg
- Engine: Mountfield 166cc 4 stroke
- Starting Method: Recoil
- Self-Propelled Drive
- Speed: single at 3.7km/h
- Grass Collection Box: 60 L
- Colour: Grey and Black
- Blade Length: 51 Centimetres
- Material: Steel deck
- Fuel Tank: 1.0 litre
- Vibration Level: 8.09
- dB(A) Rating: 98
Conclusion
In summary, I was really impressed with this mower from Mountfield. The assembly and starting process was all hassle free, with no issues. The cut quality was what you would expect from a highly regarded manufacturer. Remember this lawn mower is 51cm wide and weights 34 kg, so it is not suitable for smaller gardens. If however you have a large lawn and the room to store this Mountfield SP53 then it comes highly recommended and should definitely be on your shortlist. Especially if you are considering the option to Mulch your grass cuttings.
If you have any questions or have used any Mountfield mower and would like to share your views, please feel free to comment below.
Click the “Full Review Here” button below for a full in-depth review of this Mountfield SP53.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Grass Box Full Indicator
✅ Hose Wash Port
✅ Larger Rear Wheels
✅ Self Propelled
✅ Variable Speed
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
The Frisky Fox Plus 20″ has a self-propelled drive with speed control which again, gives you a great deal of freedom and choice. It comes with an aptly named Wolf dynamic OHV four-stroke engine that is both powerful at 173cc and reliable, meaning you won’t need to perform heavy amounts of maintenance.
One of the other nice features of this Frisky Fox Plus 20″ petrol mower is that rear striping mat, which can be used to create a striped lawn effect, if you like that traditional look.
Main Features
- Weight: 35 Kg (77lb)
- Product Dimensions: 66.5×107.5×163.7 Centimetres (26.2×42.3×64.4in)
- Grass Collection Box: 50 L
- Self-Propelled Mower
- Colour: Orange/Black
- Material: Steel
- Blade Length: 50.8 Centimetres (20in)
- Coverage: 500m2 (5,382ft2)
- Fuel Tank: 0.75 Litre (26.4imp fl oz)
Conclusion
The large blade width of 50.8 centimetres means the area cleared with each rotation is near 30% greater than a machine with a 41 centimetre blade. Over a big garden, this can make a big difference and save a lot of time. And the striper is a nice final addition to make it obvious to your neighbours that you have cut your lawn.
This is a mower with all the trimmings. If floor storage and slightly higher fuel consumption are of no concern, then it is not possible to find a mower in the same price range better suited to performing so many tasks.
Click the “Full Review Here” button below for a full in-depth review of this Frisky Fox Plus 20″.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Hose Wash Port
✅ Rear Roller (Stripes)
✅ Self Propelled
✅ Variable Speed
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
This Hayter Harrier 56 is a petrol mower that exudes quality, if you are looking for something that is a cut above the rest then this is the way forward. And speaking of moving forward, the self-propelled Sens-A-Speed function will adjust the drive to your walking pace; this is convenient and makes mowing a dream.
This premium petrol mower is slightly heavier than some of its competitors, but this merely adds to the robust design that you know will stand the test of time. Also being heavier will ensure that the rear roller produces beautiful and long lasting and enviable stripes on your lawn. Furthermore, this is a high quality, power driven split rear roller that will not only allow for easy turning without damaging the lawn but also provide additional stability on uneven surfaces and cutting across the border.
Main Features
- Weight: 51.6 kg (Auto-Drive with VS) / 53.8 kg (Auto-Drive with VS & BBC) / 51.6 kg (Auto-Drive with VS and Electric Start)
- Product Dimensions: 58 cm (W) × 157 cm (L) × 104 cm (H)
- Colour: Green
- Blade Length: 56 cm
- Coverage: Over 522m²
- Material: Aluminium
- Fuel Tank: 1.1L
Conclusion
The Hayter Harrier 56 is very much a petrol machine that is going to be perfect for larger lawns. Being power-driven takes much of the hassle and effort away. Remember, this is a the largest Harrier available and is by its nature a heavy machine. The huge 70-litre grass collection box is going to be heavy when filled with damp grass, so you may need to empty it more often if you are elderly or frail. (the two handles on the box will help)
The Hayter Harrier does indeed get fantastic cut and long lasting stiped results that you simply will not get with the majority of other brands of lawn mower. Yes, it comes at a price. But, you not only get what you pay for with Hayter petrol mowers, but you also get to buy British that is built on quality and heritage.
Click the “Full Review Here” button below for a full in-depth review of this Hayter Harrier 56.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Hose Wash Port
✅ Larger Rear Wheels
✅ Self Propelled
✅ Variable Speed
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
This Cobra MX534SPH petrol lawn mower is fitted with a Honda GCV170 166cc engine that offers an easy start function. This four-stroke engine is quiet when running and has low emission making it extremely user-friendly.
The self-propelled drive gives you a choice of four drive speeds ranging between 2.5 – 3.9mph. But one of the most impressive things about this Cobra MX534SPH mower is that it is extremely efficient where fuel is concerned. This will save you money and time refilling, but the performance will not be compromised.
The engine is reliable and exceptionally durable giving you the confidence that this petrol mower will see you through for many years to come.
There are six cutting heights between 25mm and 75mm as well as a generous 53cm cutting width. You also benefit from an optional swing-tip blade which can be installed when you need to tackle denser grass and more uneven terrain.
Main Features
- 53cm cutting width
- Six adjustable cutting heights
- 65-litre grass collection bag
- 3 in 1 mowing
- Self-propelled drive
- Powerful Honda engine
- Rotary Blade
Conclusion
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that the Cobra MX534SPH is an incredible piece of kit and will deliver time and time again. It is one of the most easy-to-use petrol mowers I have ever seen.
You will get a 2 year warranty with this mower should anything go wrong, just remember this is a domestic warranty and will not be covered if used for commercial purposes.
With four speeds, six cutting heights, the option to switch over the blade and three cutting modes plus so much more, it is evident that this is an amazing garden tool.
Click the “Full Review Here” button below for a full in-depth review of this Cobra MX534SPH.
Features:
Cutting Functions:
Features:
✅ Self Propelled
✅ Variable Speed
Cutting Functions:
Summary
More Details
When you are looking for a petrol mower, you want to feel certain that it is going to meet all of your expectations; easy to use, reliable, efficient and durable. All of these things are effortlessly brought together in the Honda HRX537HY, and then some!
If there was anything that I would have to say made this mower less than it could be, it’s the lack of a rear roller. But then, Honda did make a very similar model with a roller, the HRX476-QY. That being said, this model does have a slightly smaller cutting width of 19 inches, so you’d have to compromise anyway.
But rollers aside, this is a mower that has a lot to offer and I certainly am impressed with how well it runs, its diversity and how easy it is to use. I’m pretty sure you will be too.
Main Features
- 2 in 1 Cutting Options (Cut & Collect and Mulching)
- 21 inch cutting width
- 187cc Honda engine
- Adjustable cutting height
- 7 year warranty
- Huge 88-litre grass bag
- Durable deck
Conclusion
Have you ever dreamed of a lawn mower that has everything going for it but just thought that you couldn’t possibly have it all? Well, short of a rear roller, which isn’t the end of the world, you can have it all in the Honda HRX537HY. This robust and powerful lawn mower has so much to offer. Yes the price tag may put some people off, and yes there are cheaper alternatives available, but this is a Honda that does not disappoint in so many ways. A premium brand like this needs to be looked at as an investment that will pay dividends over time. This is not a mower for someone who just wants to get the lawn cut every so often and is not too bothered about longevity, support, features and benefitting from owing a premium brand.
Buying Guide For Petrol Lawn Mowers For A Large Lawn
It’s easy for me to sit here and tell you about some of these incredible petrol lawn mowers for large lawns, but if you want to feel confident in choosing the best model for you, it is vital that you understand what features a lawn mower of this type should have.
Some petrol mowers are not designed to handle large gardens so by comparing the various elements of the mower, you will be able to make a much more informed decision.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at what is important when buying a petrol lawn mower for a large lawn.
Engine
Potentially one of the most critical features of your petrol lawn mower will be the engine. For larger lawns, you need something that can harbour an incredible amount of power and this simply cannot be done if the engine is substandard.
If you have a bigger garden, you will generally need a mower that is more than 125cc, anything lower than this and you will tend to find that it just doesn’t cut the mustard – or the lawn.
In the main, petrol mowers will come with a two-stroke or four-stroke engine and both have their pros and cons. However, when we are looking for a petrol mower that will tackle large lawns with ease, it is better to go for a four-stroke. These tend to be a lot more powerful and are often used in commercial mowers, but if you have a huge garden, this is likely what you will need. Furthermore, the four-stroke engine is typically a lot more durable than its smaller brother, but it will require some maintenance as with any engine so be prepared to commit to this. If you would like to know more about what is involved in maintaining a petrol lawn mower please see my article 10 Simple Steps to Maintaining Your Petrol Lawn Mower.
Start-Up
If you are going to be spending a good chunk of your time mowing the lawn, then you want to make sure that the job is as easy as possible. One of the things that has deterred homeowners from investing in petrol mowers in the past is that they can be notoriously difficult to start up.
However, many of the modern models are much easier to work with. You will find that they either feature a recoil or an electric start. Of course, an electric start with a safety key is the easiest and safest way to get your mower started, but even these do come with a recoil backup just in case the system fails.
A recoil start can be easy to use in most newer petrol mowers and you will find that many of them are extremely reliable. This method requires you to push a primer button a few times before pulling the cord. In days gone by, this could have been touch and go but that isn’t a problem now with easy start recoil. Some recoil start petrol mowers nowadays have choke free starting with no need to prime the engine prior to starting.
The type of start you choose will depend on your personal preference, but if this is your first petrol mower, I would recommend going for an electric start purely for convenience.
Self-Propelled Petrol Mowers For Large Lawns
Almost all petrol mowers for large lawns have a self-propelled drive and this makes it that much easier, especially when you are mowing a larger area. If your garden is massive, the last thing you want is to be hauling a hefty mower around it, putting unnecessary strain on your body. For this reason, it is a good idea to go for a self-propelled model.
However, there are manual petrol mowers, but it is worth keeping in mind that these will require more effort from you. If your strength and stamina aren’t excellent or are elderly, I would avoid this type of mower and opt for the convenience of self-propelled. Even if you are fit, strong and healthy, but have steep slopes or a very uneven lawn, then self-propelled is by far your best option.
It is also worth keeping in mind that a lot of the self-propelled models have the option to turn this feature off, so you get a choice.
Variable Speed Control
Some petrol mowers come with the option to control the self-drive speed and this is imperative if you want to be able to mow at different paces each time and not feel that the mower is running away from you. Perhaps on a hot, sunny day, you will want to make the most of the weather and will mow at a more leisurely pace. Conversely, if there is a chill in the air or you are in a hurry, mowing at a quicker speed can make the job easier.
Of course, not all models come with this option, so do be sure to look at this before you part with any of your hard-earned cash.
As well as checking whether there is a variable speed control, you should also take a look at where the controls are located. For the most part, the controls should be located on or near the handle for easy use. You will also want to find a petrol mower whose handle has a soft grip; not only will this make it more comfortable when using but it will also give you greater control over the drive and reduce vibration.
Grass Box Capacity
When you have a larger lawn, it makes sense to purchase a petrol lawn mower with a larger grass collection bag. If you get something that is much smaller, you will find that you are having to stop to empty it more frequently.
Many of the grass collection bags and boxes on petrol mowers are between 50 and 70 litres making them ideal for more extensive areas of lawn.
Furthermore, you should think about how easy the grass box is to take on and off, if this is not a simple task, you will be adding to the overall time spent tending to your garden. It is worth noting that the larger the grass box, the heaving the mower will become when full. This is particularly so if you are cutting damp grass, so just something to bare in mind.
Mowing Features
Your petrol mower may come with the ability to mow in more than one way and the way you intend to use the mower will depend on the mowing features you require.
Most commonly, a petrol lawn mower will come with a cut and collect option; this is where the clippings are transferred into a grass collection box and disposed of manually. However, some of these machines come with a mulching plug which prevents the clippings from entering the collection box and instead returns them to the grass. This is great for larger lawns for two reasons.
Primarily, it eliminates the need to have to keep stopping to empty your grass collection bag, but it will also serve you in another way, or rather, your lawn. When you return the grass clippings back onto the ground, they act as a natural fertiliser which means that your lawn will grow more densely and will look lush and healthy.
Other mowing options include rear or side discharge where the grass clippings are forced out of either the back or the side of the mower respectively. Similarly to mulching, the clippings will be returned to the ground. Side discharge is particularly useful if you are working with very long or damp grass as it will prevent too much mess from developing in the deck.
Cutting Width And Height
One of the most important things to think about, aside from the power of the engine is the cutting width, which is something called deck size or cutting diameter. These terms will all tell you the same thing; how much lawn will be covered in one pass.
For bigger lawns, you will need a petrol lawn mower that has a generous cutting width, if you don’t, it will take you much longer to cover the entire area. In the main, anything over 50cm will serve you well when tackling a huge area. When we refer to a large lawn, this tends to mean anything above 900m². For your reference, below is a table to explain what you might need if your lawn is not quite as massive.
| Lawn Size | Cutting Width |
| Large Lawn Size (900m² +) | Over 46cm |
| Medium Lawn Size (400 – 900m²) | 39cm – 45cm |
| Small Lawn Size (less than 400m²) | 30cm – 38cm |
Weight
Since most petrol lawn mowers come with a self-propelled drive, you won’t need to be too concerned about the weight as this drive will do most of the hard work for you. However, if you are opting for a petrol mower that is not self-propelled, you will need to think about this a little more.
Petrol lawn mowers are heavier by nature, this is due to the addition of the engine, which in itself can weigh quite a bit. Put this on top of the steel body and other components of the mower and you will end up with something that could be as heavy as 40kg.
This is a lot of weight to move around, particularly if you do not have a self-propelled drive, so you should think about your strength and physical abilities before you purchase.
Even if you are using a self-propelled mower, there is still the consideration of storing the mower. Taking it in and out of the shed or outbuilding will require you to manoeuvre it using nothing but your own strength and something heavier could be a problem.
Storage
More often than not, petrol lawn mowers tend to be much bulkier than their electric and battery powered cousins. This is largely thanks to the engine but there are ways that these hefty machines can be more easily stored, because after all, just because you have a large garden, that doesn’t mean you have a huge shed.
One of the main features to look out for if you want something that is easy to store is a mower that has folding handles. This can cut the overall size of the lawn mower in half in terms of how much area it covers, making it far easier to store.
However, you should keep in mind that while other types of mower can be hung on the wall, doing this with a petrol mower is not possible as it will cause the fuel to leak and damage to occur. For this reason, you should always store it flat on its wheels.
Cost
There is not getting away from it; petrol lawn mowers can be the most expensive type of mower on the market depending on the brand and features. But what you are getting is something much more powerful and reliable, hence why they are so good for a large garden that requires a lot of maintenance.
However, it is important to set a budget and do some research to see what you can realistically purchase for that amount. There are plenty of decent petrol lawn mowers out there on the lower end of the price scale, just be sure to check that it has all of the features we have discussed in this article.
Conversely, you might decide to invest in something much more top-of-the-range and the likelihood is that if you do, this will be a piece of equipment that will serve you for many years to come.
Maintenance
One of the added responsibilities of owning a petrol lawn mower is that you will need to service it regularly and perform a certain degree of maintenance. Of course, you could outsource this work but for many homeowners, this is an unnecessary cost. Bear in mind, that with some premium brand petrol lawn mowers the warranty will depend on you having the mower serviced annually by a authorised service dealer.
When you first purchase your petrol mower, you may be unfamiliar with how to correctly look after it. But rest assured, that if you treat it well, it will be a tool that will stay with you long into the future.
Maintaining a petrol mower can be off putting for some people but once you understand what you need to do, it isn’t as complicated as you may have first thought.
Here is a rundown of everything you will need to think about when it comes to taking care of your petrol-powered mower.
- From time to time, certain components of the lawn mower may need to be replaced. It is good to familiarise yourself with your mower and look at the manufacturers website to determine what spares you may need. It can be useful to have some of these parts ready and waiting for a quick fix. These parts include spark plugs, air filters, oil and fuel additives.
- You will also need to perform an annual service on your mower, much in the same way that your car requires its service.
- The first thing to check is the spark plug. This may look like a small component, but it has a very important job; igniting the engine. Without it, your mower will not start. If the spark plug is in any way faulty, damaged or corroded/pitted, you should replace it without hesitation.
- You will also need to replace the air filters; the individual product will determine how frequently you need to do this, although quarterly is often sufficient. These air filters prevent dust and other particles from making their way into the engine, which could cause it to malfunction and run badly.
- A petrol lawn mower is nothing without its blades so ensuring that they are sharp and ready for cutting is an integral part of caring for your machine. If they need to be sharpened, do this before attempting to mow as dull blades will not give as good a result.
- It is important to keep your mower clean, especially under the deck where a lot of grass and dirt will accumulate. Some mowers come with a handy hose connector for easy cleaning, but if yours doesn’t, you will need to manually clean it.
- Make sure that the wheels and any bolts holding the equipment together are checked regularly and tightened if necessary.
- It is unlikely that you will be cutting your lawn over the winter so once you have finished that last mow of the autumn, be sure to completely drain the fuel tank or ensure it has a fuel stabiliser/preservative.
It is important to keep your mower clean, especially under the deck where a lot of grass and dirt will accumulate. Some mowers come with a handy hose connector for easy cleaning, but if yours doesn’t, you will need to manually clean it.Conclusion
Having a large garden or lawn is definitely a positive thing but when it comes to maintaining it, you may find things a little more of a challenge. Using a petrol mower is a great option for a huge lawn as it will make the job that much easier. Yes of course, a ride-on-lawn mower will get the job done quicker but this is not suitable for everybody as cost, storage and access are the main limitations.
There are several things that you should look out for when choosing a petrol mower for a large lawn including the cutting width, self-propelled drive and the power of the engine.
Once you are confident that you know what you are looking for, these ten lawn mowers are some of the best and efficient currently on the market. And if you’re anything like me, you will be extremely impressed by these petrol lawn mowers suitable for large lawns.
