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Topsoil Vs Compost For Planting Grass Seed | Which Should I Use & When?

As the weather starts to warm up towards the end of Winter/beginning of Spring, most people start looking at the state of their yard and gardens thinking about what they want to do for the upcoming summer.

When it comes to the yard, a beautiful carpet of lush, green grass makes any home look fantastic, but what is the secret to having a beautiful, green grass yard?

Well… part of the secret to having a beautiful yard is to make sure that the grass has all of the nutrients that it needs in order to be that vibrant color of green. Because if you have a yard that is covered in bright green grass, then you have a healthy, strong yard that, not only looks great but is also going to be able to fight off diseases that may make lesser grass yards turn brown or not grow to their full potential.

A couple of the tactics that you can use to supply all of the nutrients that your grass needs to be healthy and green is rich in compost and topsoil. The question then becomes…. how do I choose topsoil vs compost for grass seed? Well… Read on to get some great information that you can use to make the best decision

What is Top Soil?

As the name implies, topsoil is the very top layer of the ground. It is actually the top 10 inches of the ground.It is very nutrient-rich and is full of great minerals that plants, flowers, and grass can use to grow and be beautiful. Because topsoil erodes due to wind and rain, it is pretty standard for most gardeners to purchase topsoil. There are several grades of topsoil available.

1. Premium – Sand, clay, and organic materials, such as composted manure, make up this grade, which is the most expensive. Plants, beds, and gardens can all benefit from their fertile, nutrient-rich properties.

2. General-Purpose – The soil in this grade has been screened to remove stones and debris. Besides landscaping, it can also be used for planting beds.

3. Economy – This product is the least expensive, but offers the lowest quality topsoil. Because there isn’t any screening of rocks and stones that go into this product, it is best utilized to level land or build up an area of ground. Due to the potential for rocks and stones, this grade should not be used for beds.

There are also three different types of topsoil, characterized by their material makeup, and they each have specific uses.

The first type is Clay soil. Clay soil is useful for adding to areas that need to hold water for a longer period of time. The clay holds water very well for a longer period of time, so you would want to use clay topsoil in an area that gets a lot of water, and if you decide to use clay topsoil, you are going to be able to go for a longer period of time without water.

The second type is Loam topsoil. Loam soil is made by mixing together clay, sand, silt as well as other organic materials. Loam is the best type of topsoil to use for lawns because it incorporates all of the best features of the other type of soils with the additional nutritional value from the added organics.

The third type of topsoil is Sandy soil. Sandy soil is great for adding drainage. Sandy soil does not hold water for long, so you are going to need to water more often, any plants that are growing in sandy soil. Obviously, you would not want to use sandy soil in an area that does not get a lot of water.

There are many benefits of adding topsoil to your lawn, but the best benefit is that by layering the lawn with topsoil, you’ll be enabling the grass to absorb all of those nutrients into the root system. This will, in addition to ensuring that the grass maintains a beautiful green color and lush texture, allow the grass to become very resistant to drought and bugs.

What is Compost?

Compost is the fertilizer that is used for plants that are made from decayed organic material, like leaves, grass trimmings, etc. Because it is decayed organic material, it is very rich in minerals and other beneficial organisms like worms, etc.

Compost is generally used to improve the fertility of the soil in landscaping and horticulture by providing high-quality minerals and organisms for plants, flowers, and grasses. Compost can be created from pretty much any organic material; however, there are three main types of compost.

The first is wood compost. Wood compost is made from bark, dead limbs, sticks, and wood chippings that have been left to rot. Thanks to bacteria breaking down the wood, it eventually becomes a wood “dust” that is full of nutrients and bacterial organisms.

The second type is green compost. This is the type that most people think of when they think of compost. It is composed of garden waste as well as food scraps, and the third type is manure.

Manure compost is very beneficial to grass and other plants due to the large number of nutrients that are in it from the hay, straw, and plants that cows eat.

Compost Vs Topsoil?

I really don’t think of a compost vs topsoil debate because the best course of action really is to use them both simultaneously. The plants and the grass benefit by having a lot of beneficial nutrients introduced into the root systems.

The type of nutrients is even more broad-spectrum if both are used simultaneously because the nutritional profile will be much more enhanced by using a combination of compost and topsoil where you may end up in a situation where the grass is not getting enough nutritional value from just topsoil or from just compost.

Again, the trick is to use both together in order to really get the most bang for the buck. When using topsoil and compost for a new lawn, whether seed or sod, the best results are going to be obtained by using a mixture that is 5:1, which is 5 parts topsoils mixed with 1 part compost. By using that mixture you are sure to get all of the nutritional value that the grass needs without any concern that the grass might be overloaded.

When Should I Use Compost?

The best time to use compost is pretty much the same as when to use topsoil, which is very early Spring and during the Fall. Compost can be used in the Summer as well for some applications; however, in general, it is best to use compost in the Spring and Fall because that is the best time of the year for all of the microbes in the compost to do their thing so that the grass or garden plants will benefit the most.

Like most other organisms, microbes tend to not be as active in very hot weather as they are in warm weather. What is comfortable for you, is also comfortable for the microbes. Additionally, since compost contains so much nutritional value for the plants and grass, any area of growth that needs an extra infusion of minerals is a candidate for compost.

One thing to keep in mind is drainage. Because compost doesn’t drain well, you may not want to add much compost to any area that has a drainage problem.

When Should I Use Top Soil?

When you use topsoil depends completely on the project, but it is versatile and can be used for a variety of applications. Topsoil can be used for lawns, gardens, and for drainage. However, since the focus of the article is lawns, let’s discuss how you would use them for your lawn.

Topsoil is great for lawns because it has so many uses for grass. For example, topsoil can be used to reinvigorate and rejuvenate a damaged or depressed lawn. It can also be used to raise the level of an area of the lawn so that it is even with the rest of the yard. If you are growing grass from seeds, all that you need to do is to lay down a one-inch layer of topsoil, and then, using a rake, work the seeds into the topsoil.

If you have a new area and are trying to get some growth established and you either know or suspect that the existing layer of soil may not have a nutrient profile that is going to provide enough support for new growth, then topsoil is a great choice.

Is compost or Top Soil Better for Grass Seed?

As far as seeding goes, whether reseeding or over seeding, the best strategy is going to be to apply a layer of topsoil 2-4 inches deep before you lay down the seed. After you have put down the seed and worked the seed in with a rake, then you may want to top off the seeds with a thin layer of compost. This then layer will provide additional nutrition, but will also ensure that the seeds do not wash away or are blown away.

How Can I Make Grass Seed Grow Successfully?

1. Use a lawn spreader or a mechanical seeder for large areas in order to ensure that the seeds are distributed evenly. For small areas or patches, spread it by hand. Just make sure that it is evenly distributed.

2. Cover the seeds with topsoil and a layer of mulch or compost to prevent them from blowing or being washed away.

3. Saturate the new area of seeds with water. Use the mist setting on your garden hose to really get the area wet. Do not overwater, but make sure that the area does not dry out either.

4. Do not walk on the area while the new growth is being established… Try to keep pets away from the area if possible.

Wrapping Up

Using compost and/or topsoil for grass seed is not really all that difficult because they both have their place in the garden. They both work well for certain applications, but they both can be used together as well. It really does depend on what your project is and what you are trying to accomplish.

The important thing to take away from this is to make sure that you understand compost and topsoil. Go to the garden center and ask questions to get information on the best composts and topsoil that you need in order to create a beautiful lawn and garden for your home.

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Will Grass Seed Grow If I Just Throw It Down?

Will grass seed grow if I just throw it down? The thought has definitely crossed my mind. I’m sure you want your lawn to be the envy of the neighborhood, you want to get your lawn to look like a million dollars, if not two! This is definitely possible and we want to help you achieve this. But then, you must have been wondering if you’ll get lucky and not have to do much. It’s normal to be tempted to look the easy way and just simply throw your grass seed on the ground and expect it to grow, but let’s see if it will.

Will grass seed grow if I just throw it on the ground?

Well, grass seeds can actually grow if you just throw them on the ground. However the coverage won’t be as good because they’ll not be evenly spread as some seeds will die off after some time and the germination rate would be really poor. 

If you want to turn your lawn into an impressive-looking one, it’s important you have a proper planting and maintenance procedure that’ll give your lawn the perfect growing conditions. Here, I’ll be discussing all the tips from preparing your garden soil to raking in the seeds that can help you grow lush lawns that everyone will admire.

How To Properly Prepare Soil For Grass Seed

Preparing the soil before planting grass seeds can significantly improve the results. If you want to get that stunning look you desire, then it’s important you follow the steps below to ensure you prepare your soil adequately.

Step 1: Test the pH of your soil

Testing the pH of your soil is a very important procedure. It’s important that your soil pH is between 6.0 and 7.0. There are several ways to test the pH of your soil within a short time. This is a 4 in 1 pH meter, Temperature, Sunlight, and Moisture meter that has an easy to read display. This is going to take care of everything with one device.  Make sure to test your soil while it’s dry.

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This soil tester will measure the pH, moisture, light, and temperature to help you stay on top of your gardening needs.

 

If you find out that your soil is not within the ideal range, you’ll need to adjust it. Like I mentioned earlier, grass loves a pH range of 6.0-7.0. You can use lime or wood ash to raise the pH level of your soil. Composted manure and sulfur are good agents that can help you lower your soil pH levels.

 

Step 2: Clear your ground very well and loosen the soil

The next step once you have gotten your soil ready is to clear the area you are preparing. Try as much as possible to remove weeds, stones, etc. You can use a rotary tiller if your lawn is really large, but a spade should do just fine if the area is small. Loosening your soil will help to get it aerated and bring it better-growing conditions.

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Step 3: Rake your soil to get the old grass out

Make sure to remove the old grass as it can poison the roots of your new grass seeds. You’ll need to leave your soil for one to two weeks, so you’ll allow the weeds to emerge so you can remove them evenly.

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Step 4: Spray the area with water and add nutrients to your soil

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You’ll also need to spray the area with water and add compost or slow-release fertilizer to your soil.

Step 5: It’s time to plant!

Buy high-quality grass seed, this will increase the chances of more seeds germinating. If you have a small area, simply use your hand to spread the seed on the ground. A spreader would be much easier and faster for larger areas. Make sure to cover the seeds with a quarter-inch of soil and apply fertilizer.

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How To Rake In Grass Seed

Raking your seeds into the ground will help to stimulate germination. Simply spreading the seeds on the ground is not enough to ensure immediate growth. You’ll need to take in the grass seeds.

So take your leaf rake and use the back to gently move the seeds into the soil slowly. The seeds shouldn’t get too deep into the soil, just light strokes should do the trick.

Raking your seeds into the soil properly will help to speed up germination. And within two to four weeks, you should notice a few seeds poking out of the soil. If you don’t take your seeds into the soil, they may die or get exposed to other unfavorable conditions.

Best Conditions For Grass Seed

For your grass seeds to germinate well, you’ll need to provide them with the best conditions. They thrive in moist soil. Avoid overly wet conditions that may wash away the seeds. But ensure the soil is moist enough to ensure germination.

Once you’ve planted your seeds don’t let the soil dry out until you notice a fine growth where you’ve sowed them. Don’t plant grass seeds on a windy day, you don’t want your seeds to be blown off. This is why winter isn’t the best time to plant these seeds.

Summer can be a bit troubling too, as your soil will quickly run out of water at this time. But most importantly, you should choose the best time of the year to plant your seeds. This will depend on the grass seed you are planting and your region.

For best results, it’s important you plant your seeds in their natural active period and purchase a suitable seed for your region. Some seeds are sun-loving, some others only need a few hours of sunlight.

For cool-season grasses like bluegrass, and fescue, early fall should be a great time for planting. These species of grass thrive in cooler northern climates. For warm-season grasses like Bahiagrass, late spring would be an ideal time to plant. These grasses grow very well in southern and western regions.

What To Do If Grass Seed Doesn’t Grow?

If your grass seed isn’t growing after several weeks, it means there’s something wrong. It can be frustrating after preparing, planting, and fertilizing and the seeds just won’t grow.

First, let’s examine some reasons why this may happen. The most common problem is lack of sunlight, it could be that you have planted sun-loving grass under shade.

But most times, the issue is that trees and buildings around the area are shading the area from sunlight. So if you’ve planted sun-loving grass in an area that has well-matured trees, your seeds might not grow. So what do you do now?

You’ll definitely not want to cut down the trees you’ve enjoyed for years. But you’ll have to plant a variety that can deal with your shaded area. Shade-tolerant grass seeds like velvet bentgrass can handle just a few hours of sunlight.

Don’t assume that feeding your plants with more fertilizer will make them grow, you must plant the right plant in the right place for it to grow.

Other times, some homeowners discover that an area of the lawn seems stressed. This usually happens during extreme weather conditions when it’s too hot and dry. Then the issue could be that there’s an underground object stopping the root from getting to the soil reservoir where they can get water and nutrients or you’ve got hard clay soil.

At this point, you may need to dig up your soil and aerate. Your grass also needs airflow. Airflow decreases the possibility of diseases. If you’ve got a privacy screen and too many trees, you may need to limb-up trees and shrubs to allow greater airflow. Installing fans is another quite expensive option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will grass seed grow if not covered?

Yes, grass seed may grow if not covered. But it’s always better to add a layer of topsoil at least or compost over your seeds. This will not only keep it moist, but it’ll also help to prevent it from being food for the birds.

Will grass seed grow over dead grass?

Grass seed will not grow if it’s lying on dead grass. You’ll need to remove the dead grass and expose the soil. Tilling the soil will help to loosen the top layer of the soil and ensure your seeds germinate correctly.

Will grass seed die if not watered right away?

No, the grass seed will lay there dormant when not given the right growing conditions. All seeds require moisture for germination to take place. But then, once the seed starts to germinate, if they are not given proper care and they are left dry, they’ll die.

Will grass seed grow if you walk on it?

Grass seedlings are very fragile. So it’ll be nice to avoid or reduce walking on your lawn for at least a month after planting. The seedlings can be damaged by foot traffic, so ideally you should wait till your grass has been mowed 2 times before exposing it to the usual traffic. Otherwise, simply walking across your lawn to water it shouldn’t stop it from growing, but you’ll need to be careful so the seeds don’t stick to your shoes.

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Best Lawn Mower for Hills
updated on Gardening Tools Lawn Care Lawn Tools Product Reviews

Best Lawn Mower for Hills Reviews & Buying Guide

Sloped gardens are undeniably beautiful, but mowing them can be a tricky task. First, you want to get your lawn to look smooth and neat. Plus, you want to avoid accidents and not put yourself through too much stress while mowing a sloped lawn.

You’ve probably been struggling to achieve all these with a normal mower. However, it can get a lot easier with a lawnmower that is suitable for hilly gardens. Here, we’ve helped you do a thorough search and we’ve brought you the best lawnmowers for sloped gardens.

You’ll find a great option that’ll help you get up and down the hill with ease. There are certainly a few features that make certain mowers more suitable, you’ll learn that here as well.

Image Product Name Our Rating Price
EGO Power+ Cordless Lawn Mower
Troy-Bilt TB330 163cc Lawn Mower

Greenworks PRO Cordless Lawn Mower

Honda HRX217K5VKA 187cc Lawn Mower
Troy-Bilt Premium Riding Lawn Mower 
Snapper XD 82V MAX Electric Cordless 21″ Mower

Top 6 Most Preferred Lawn Mowers for Hills 

1. EGO Power+  Cordless Lawn Mower

The ego power+ lawn mower is perfect for small or medium-sized gardens. If you’ve got a small yard and you are looking out for a lawnmower that’ll offer a great experience, this is a wonderful option for you.

It is one of the best electric lawn mowers with lithium batteries.It comes with an impressive 21 inches cutting capacity, but then it does not give a smooth even look as a Honda would. It has a sloping nose structure with effective size, making it ideal for hilly gardens. This amazing cordless electric mower comes with bright LED headlights, so you can get to work at any time.

You may not be so impressed with its 45 minutes cut-time, but then, you can easily charge it in an hour. If you, hate to deal with the noise, and fumes of a gas-powered mower, then you’ll appreciate this technology. The ego power+ lawn mower also offers a tri-cutting feature with six different cutting heights

Pros
  • Powerful, high-torque magnetic motor
  • Three-in-one function including rear bagging, mulching, and side discharge
  • Rapid charger minimizes downtime due to battery charging
  • Large (20-inch) cut capacity means you’ll cut more grass is less time
  • Convenient LED headlines allow anytime mowing
  • Folds easily for sturdy, upright storage
Cons​
  • The lifetime of the battery is rather short for large yards
  • The battery charger is great but not durable

2. ​​Troy-Bilt TB330 163cc Lawn Mower

The Troy-Bilt TB330 163cc is a premium quality lawn mower that can be perfect for yards on hilly slopes. The mower is self-propelled. The mower’s engine transfers some of its rotating shaft power to the rear wheels as it operates. This eliminates most of the effort you need to push the machine making your work less strenuous.

The machine gets its power from 4-cycle Briggs & Stratton 163cc OHV 725EXi engine.  The engine is efficient and will provide you with years of reliable performance. This walk-behind mower has sufficient power to mow half-acre yard without an issue. Although the engine does not offer electric starting, it features Ready Start starting system. This pull-cord start system allows users to start the engine with minimal effort.

The TB330 provides you with variable speed control. Thus you can adjust the speed of the mower depending on the condition of your yard. In the end, the feature contributes to better results. You can also customize the cutting height via a convenient lever. There are six cutting heights to choose from ranging from 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches. The design features a deck wash. The technology aims to minimize the hassles associated with regular cleaning and maintenance.

Pros
  • A self-propelled rear drive lawn mower
  • Enjoy the performance and reliability of Briggs & Stratton 4-cycle 163 cc OHV engine
  • ReadyStart system allows you to start the mower with only one or two strokes
  • Variable speed control and adjustable cutting height for versatility
  • Deck wash feature makes it easy to clean and maintain the mower
Cons​
  • Many users would prefer larger rear wheels
  • Rear wheels have a tendency to dig in
  • A more powerful drive system would the great

3. Greenworks PRO  Cordless Lawn Mower

If you want to enjoy the convenience of a cordless lawn mower then you can check out the Greenworks PRO. The machine gets its power from technologically advanced electric motors. The DigiPro brushless motor is reliable and efficient. It will provide you with a performance equal to that of gas-powered models. The motor gets its power from 4AH or 5AH lithium-ion battery. Such battery will provide up to 60 minutes of cut power. However, you will need to buy the battery and charger separately.

The mower features Greenworks so-called smart-cut technology. The technology aims at improving the performance of mower and its run-time. It will allow you to complete your mowing task fast and with ease. Another aspect of performance is the 3-in-1 functionality of the 21-inch steel deck. You have the options to side discharge, mulch or rear bag for grass clippings.

The machine operates up to 30 percent quiet compared to gas models. Unlike the gas-powered models, the Greenworks Pro produces minimal vibration. It means you can mow for as long as the battery allows you without exhaustion. As with most cordless tools, this lawn mower for hill needs no maintenance. You are also free from the inconvenience of cables with a tendency to tangle.

Pros
  • Efficient and reliable DigiPro brushless motor
  • Gives up to 60 minutes of cut power
  • Operates quietly and with minimal vibration
  • Smart-cut technology improves run-time and performance of the mower
  • Needs no maintenance but delivers optimal performance
Cons​
  • Charger and battery are sold separately
  • May not be ideal for larger yards

4. Honda HRX217K5VKA 187cc Lawn Mower

Unlock the power of a gas-powered mower for hills in the Honda HRX217K5VKA. Although a gas-powered mower, the model is among the quietest. It features Honda’s patented Versamow System. The unique system allows four-in-one performance. The 21-inch deck can afford you mulch, bag, side discharge or shred grass chippings options.

Even more interesting is the fact that the system allows the combination of functions. You can mulch and bag at the same time by sliding a convenient clip director knob. You can then choose how much grass to mulch and how much to bag. All this you will do without tools or expensive attachments. The machine features twin blade MicroCut System. The technology uses 4-cutting surfaces resulting in thin clippings for perfect mulching. It also results in extra chippings per bag.

It deck features NeXite, an extremely strong and compact material. The material does not dent, corrode or rust with time. It will add to the durability of the mower. The mower features GCV190 engine. Users of Honda products know that GCV190 engines start quickly, are fuel efficient and are powerful. It will give you years of reliable performance. Besides, you can easily adjust the speed of the mower to your stride. You can then engage the Select Drive control for impressive, comfortable speed management.

Pros
  • You can adjust speed to match your stride and control speed via Select Drive
  • Versamow System is incredibly versatile
  • Twin blade MicroCut System results in finer grass chippings and better mow
  • Deck is made of durable and corrosion, rust and dent resistant NeXite material
  • GCV190 engine provides powerful and reliable performance
Cons​
  • Handle seems to provide less than comfortable grip
  • Set fastest speed setting is a good idea but not necessary

5. Troy-Bilt Premium Riding Lawn Mower 

Do you prefer riding lawn mower for hill and you can part with a slightly higher cost? If so, a good choice would be the Premium Neighborhood Riding Lawn Mower from Troy-Bilt. The mower boasts of a massive 382cc Auto Choke OHV engine giving in the biggest power of all models in our review. You know that such performance comes at a cost.

The machine equipped a fuel tank that has a capacity of 1.3 gallons. The tanks have a window through which you can check the fuel level. You will easily know when to refill your mower. With a massive 30-inch cutting deck, you can be sure to finish your task fast. You can choose from five mowing height options. This feature will give professional mowing results.

The mower can achieve a maximum forward speed of 4.25 mph. But you can adjust the performance speed of the mower via six-speed transmissions. The adjustable speed option is necessary because hills need low mowing speeds. The large size of the deck makes it wise to ride carefully on slopes.

Pros
  • Incredible 18-inch turning radius guarantees superior maneuverability
  • Five mowing height options provide great results
  • 6-speed transmissions allow you to find the right mowing speed
  • Large rear wheels provide good traction on hilly areas
  • Comfortable mid-back seat with a soft-grip steering wheel
Cons​
  • The large size of the mower makes it risky on steep slopes
  • The tough and slippery footrest may be risky

6. Snapper XD 82V MAX Electric Cordless Mower 

This snapper lawn mower is a nice choice for medium-sized sloped gardens. It is an electric cordless walk-behind mower. It comes with a smart and effective system with up to 45 minutes cut time.

It has a height adjustment feature that’s much better than the regular walk-behind mowers. Snapper SXD offers 7 cutting height levels. However, this mower may not be the best option for you if you have a very hilly garden, this is because of its rather large size. Snapper lawn mower is perfect for gardens with smaller slopes.

Pros
  • Powerful lithium-ion battery
  • 7 cutting height adjustments
  • 3-in-1 mowing, bagging, and side-discharge feature
  • 21-inch steel mowing deck
  • Cordless option
Cons​
  • Does not come with a charger and battery
  • You’ll need to be careful with the handle bolt
  • May not work on a very. hilly garden surface

Things to Consider Before Buying a Lawn Mower for Hills

Wowing on a hilly slope can be dangerous. The first step to achieving a successful mow is to choose the right mower for the purpose. A wrong mower may not cut anything or at best deliver poor quality mow. To help you succeed, here is our resourceful buying guide on what to consider before buying a mower for hills.

Wheel Drive Mode 

When it comes to the best mower for hills, the drive mode you choose is of utmost importance. In this case, you can choose from a rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive. The best choice of mowing on hills is a rear-wheel drive. An all-wheel-drive may also be good in a lot of situations but may not be great for hilly yards. Rear-wheel drive has excellent traction. This becomes important especially if you were to lose control of the mower.

Type of Lawn Mower 

You can choose between 3 different types of mowers. These include walk-behind lawn mowers, zero-turn lawn mowers and riding lawn mowers. The walk-behind models are the best for hills. This is because they allow you to rapidly position your mass as you move along the hilly slopes. Besides, they are easy to control through press buttons located on the right side of the mower. Zero-turn and riding lawn mowers can tipple easily.

Deck Size 

Deck size determines the time you will take to complete your mowing task. For large open yards, the best deck size should range between 42 and 54-inches cutting width. However, narrow lawns and those in sloppy areas will need shorter decks. It will give you better control as you will easily move the mower around obstacles.

Weight 

A light lawn mower is ideal for hilly yards. A heavier one will be difficult to the handle especially when you need to move it up and down the hills. However, you have to balance power with weight. Its because most lightweight models do not have enough power necessary for efficient mow. In other words, the mower should be powerful yet light enough for easy handling on slopes.

Possible Attachments 

Many models of lawn mowers allow for various accessories to improve functionality. Nevertheless, such attachments add to the overall weight of the mower. It would be wise to avoid unnecessary attachments of your mower cannot accommodate them. It will reduce the weight you can bear and thus make your mower easy to control.

Ease of Operation 

Some lawn mowers are complicated and thus hard to control. It may become problematic for new users. If you are new to this machinery, it would be wise to choose a model that is easy to operate. Most of the ones we have included in our top 5 lawn mower for hills reviews are very easy to operate. Look for one with easy operation features. Examples of such features include cruise control. The feature allows the mower to navigate around a given area without cumbersome instructions.

Important Safety Precautions For Lawn Mowers

Mowing sloped gardens can be very risky, but with these safety instructions you should get along well.

  • Inspect your garden before mowing, you want to make sure there are no harmful blades, bottles, etc.
  • For gas-powered mowers, make sure to let them cool off before re-fueling. This will prevent fire accidents.
  • For riding mowers, just a single rider is needed. Avoid anything more.
  • When mowing on a sloped area, ensure the mower is straight in the direction of the slope.

Also Read: ​Best Lawn Mower Lifts

Final Verdict 

Make your hilly backyard picturesque by mowing frequently. It’s important that you use the right mower. The most mowers are ideal for mowing flat, open yards. Certain salient features make certain mowers more suitable than others in mowing hills. Our top choice has a majority of these features. The others in the list of top 5 best lawn mower for hills are also great.

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updated on Gardening Tools Lawn Care Lawn Tools Product Reviews

Best Lawn Leveling Rakes buyers guide

If you want to level out your garden a lawn leveling rake is a must have tool in your shed. It helps to spread top soil across your garden and also remove stones a debris. There are lots of leveling rakes out there but these are our best lawn leveling rakes this year.

Image Product Name Our Rating Price
Talitare Lawn Leveling Rake – 5 Foot Garden Finishing Stainless Steel
Varomorus Stainless Steel Lawn Leveling Rake

Rocklin Industry Levelawn Rake

Golf Garden Grass Levelawn

Best Lawn Leveling Rakes For 2023

Talitare Lawn Leveling Rake

Lawn leveling rakes can get expensive however the Talitare comes in at a budget friendly price. It’s a 5 foot rake made with a stainless steel head and bracket making it a durable choice for leveling.

Like most lawn rakes all it takes is a simple back and forth motion to easily distribute top dressing materials on small areas. The rake also helps to remove stones from soil and helps to break up small clods of sand or loam. This leaves your lawn in perfect condition for planting.

If your looking for a budget friendly leveling rake for a small garden the Talitare is a good choice.

Pros

  • Budget Friendly
  • Perfect For Small Gardens
  • Durable Steel Head
  • Easy To Use

Cons

  • May be too small for large areas
  • No option to connect to atv or tractor

Varomorus Stainless Steel Lawn Leveling Rake

The Varomorus brand has 3 sizes of leveling rake so you can get the perfect fit for your specific needs. The largest size has a base of 42″ making it a great choice for large projects.

As it is so large the handle comes in three parts making it a little unsteady if you make any harsh movements with it. If you plan on getting aggressive when leveling this may cause an issue for you.

In terms of the rake itself it works great and helps to remove stones and spread material evenly around your garden.

Pros

  • Large Option For Large Gardens
  • Won’t Rust
  • Light Weight
  • Easy To Use

Cons

  • Handle connections can come loose
  • No Option To Connect to tractor or ATV

Rocklin Industry LeveLawn Leveling Rake

This rake comes in 30 inch and 48 inches giving you options for small and large garden projects. Unlike the previous rake this one has a much sturdier handle. Even though the handle still comes in pieces like the previous rake it has a much better mechanism for holding the handle together while raking.

This rake will work on all types of grass such as Bermuda, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, St. Augustine and Fescue. They recommend using the rake when the grass is cut to 1.5″.

With a 48″ x 10″ rake at 15lbs you can easily manoeuvre it around the garden to level your lawn

Pros

  • Large Option For Large Gardens
  • Strong Handle
  • Light Weight
  • Easy To Use

Cons

  • No Option To Connect to tractor or ATV
  • Made from thin gauge stainless steal

Golf Garden Grass LeveLawn Leveling Rake

One of the best features about this rake is the fact that it is equipped to be towed behind an ATV or multifunctional tractor. This makes leveling your lawn a much easier and less tiring process. It has a steel head and bracket with a strong structure making it durable on even the toughest of jobs.

Pros

  • Can Be Towed
  • Durable
  • Light Weight
  • Easy To Use

Cons

What is A Lawn Leveling Rake?

A lawn leveling rake is a tool that allows you to level soil and dirt evenly in your garden to get a more level lawn. You will find golf courses and parks using lawn leveling rakes to keep their grounds in top condition.

How To Use A Lawn Leveling Rake?

Put a thin layer of soil across the area you want to level. You then want to push your lawn leveling rake back and forth smoothly across the area until the soil is evenly spread throughout the area.

Ron henry has put together a great video on youtube showing the process step by step.

Wrapping Up

Hopefully you can now pick the perfect lawn leveling rake for you and get the perfect garden.Behlen Country Sub-Compact Rotary Cutter

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How Short To Cut Grass Before Winter 
updated on Gardening How to Gardening Tools Lawn Care Lawn Care Basics Lawn Grass

How Short To Cut Grass Before Winter?

Curing the cold months of winter your lawn doesn’t need much care. This means you must get it right the last chance you have to cut your grass before winter. Many people are confused about how short to cut grass before winter and the first freeze of the year.

What do the experts have to say? What effects will cutting your grass too short or too long have on your lawn during winter? What is the recommended grass cutting high just before winter? You will learn more while we try to answer these questions.

​The recommended cutting length for grass before the winter is on average 2 inches long. For Bermuda and bent grass varieties the length should be a little shorter (Around 1-2 Inches).​

Importance of Preparing Your Lawn during the fall

Due to the extreme winter weather, you will have no option but to spend the least amount of time thinking about your lawn. Unless your area of residence is warm all year round, you will have to put away your string trimmer. Preparing your lawn properly can ensure it survives even the harshest winter and guarantees that it will be gorgeous and lush with the rolling of the spring.

Experts recommend that you fertilize your lawn early winter or late fall if yours are cool season grasses such as Bermuda and bluegrass. Just before the first freeze, ensure you give your grass thorough fertilizing with a good organic or inorganic fertilizer. This will renew the nutrient content of the soil that was lost during the hot summer months. When winter falls, the fertilizer will stay in the soil to feed your grass root throughout winter.

Another important step in preparing your lawn before winter is to clean it off all debris such as dry plant leaves, tree limbs, logs, branches and other objects. Any debris you leave on your lawn during winter will create a dead spot due to the weight of the object. You can also aerate your lawn and make sure people do not walk on the dry dormant grass, which might limit their resilient.

Cutting Your Grass before Winter

How Short To Cut Grass Before Winter 

The best tool to use to mow your lawn just before winter is commercial weed trimmer or commercial weed eater and lawn mower. These important lawn maintenance tools are lightweight, easy to use, convenient, and produce better results. Experts contend that you should progressively lower the cutting base of your string trimmer each time you mow your lawn. Slowly cutting your grass shorter will allow the lawn to winter well without the shock of being cut all off at once.

The Proper cutting technique requires that you do not take off more than one-third of the grass blade during a single mowing. People refer to this as the one-third rule. For instance, if you need to take your grass down from 4 inches to 3 inches, you must do it progressively. In other words, it must take a couple of mowing to achieve that height. A good commercial weed trimmer can help you achieve a great mow just before winter.

Also Read: ​7 Best Lawn Mower Lifts [Buying Guide]​​​

What Is The Proper Cutting Height?

There is no agreement as to the exact height you should cut your grass. Different grass species or varieties may require different conditions. However, most people believe that the height of your grass after the last cutting should be averagely 2 inches. Length is ideal for most cool season turfs such as the famous Kentucky bluegrass. The lengths should be shorter (about 1 inch to 2 inches) for Bermuda and bent grass varieties.

Having 2-3 inches of greens allows your lawn to optimize its photosynthesis during the harsh winter months and therefore maintain resilience. This height also promotes root growth and boosts stress tolerance ahead of cold winter weather.

How Short To Cut Grass Before Winter 

Image Source: ebay.com

Effects of Cutting Grass Too High or too short

You don’t want your grass any higher than 3 inches after the last cut before winter because such grass has the tendency to compress or mat’ under snowfall. Such matted grass will invite diseases such as the terrible snow mold. At three inches, the grass will still be able to shade the soil from the hot summer sun just before the first freeze.

Cutting lower than 2 inches, on the other hand, forces the grass to use more nutrients to accelerate their growth and regain missing height. This will happen at the expense of underground growth, which would otherwise keep weeds at bay. Cutting your grass too short may cause it to go into hibernation much early or may stress your lawn to the point where it starts to die off. You definitely do not want this to happen.

Also Read: ​Best Sprinkler Heads​​​

Conclusion

If you want your lawn to survive even the harshest winter months then you will ensure you prepare it well before the first freeze. A vital step before you keep that commercial weed eater is to cut your grass to the correct height to allow your lawn to maintain its resilience once springtime comes. Remember to maintain the one-third rule at all times.

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Best dump cart
updated on Gardening Tools Lawn Care Lawn Tools Product Reviews

Best Dump Cart for Lawn Tractor Reviews & Buying Guide

Best Dump Cart for Lawn Tractor Reviews of 2023

Are you looking for a dump cart for lawn tractor?

 

If you have a large yard or estate, investing in one of the best dump carts can be a boon for you! Dump carts help increase your efficiency when doing garden work as well as save precious time.

Carrying equipment, heavy wood, and other items around manually is a thing of the past!

We will go through some of the best dump carts for lawn tractors available to choose from in the market, and help you make the right decision for your needs.

Image Product Name Our Rating Price

Gorilla Carts GOR4PS Garden Dump Cart

Gorilla Carts GOR6PS Yard Dump Cart 

Agri-Fab 750-Pound Tow Behind Dump Cart

Craftsman Tow Poly Cart

Agri-Fab 800lb Poly Tow Behind Dump Cart 

10 Cubic Foot Steel Dump Cart

MotoAlliance Impact Implements Heavy Duty Utility Cart

Top 7 Dump Carts for Lawn Tractor Reviews

We would like to go through some of the best dump carts reviews that you can buy on the market.

1. Gorilla Carts GOR4PS Poly Garden Dump Cart

The GOR4PS dump cart by Gorilla Carts is one of the best-selling and highest rated dump carts you can find on the market. With a 600-pound capacity, this dump cart is a good choice for small to medium-sized yards.

The 10-inch pneumatic tires featured on the cart make moving it easy and efficient.

Here are some key features:

  • Comes with a patented quick-release feature which makes it easier and quicker to unload
  • The frame design allows quick assembly
  • Easily maneuverable
  • Comes with 10-inch pneumatic tires
  • Features a padded pull handle which makes it easy to pull as much as 600 lbs
  • Comes with a one-year limited warranty

Pros

  • A highly reputable brand which offers a one-year limited warranty
  • Easily maneuverable
  • Has a long lifespan

Cons

  • A little complex to assemble

2. Gorilla Carts GOR6PS Heavy-Duty Poly Yard Dump Cart

With a heavy-duty capacity of 1,200-pounds, the Gorilla Carts GOR6PS dump cart makes everything more efficient and easy for you. This dump cart for tractors comes with a 2-in-1 convertible handle and Gorilla’s patented quick-release system that makes things increasingly efficient!

Here are some key features:

  • Features Gorilla’s patented quick-release system which makes unloading easy and quick
  • Comes with a padded, heavy-duty two in one handle which can easily pull up to 1200 lbs of weight
  • Features a rust-proof bed and and 13-inch pneumatic tires
  • The frame design allows quick assembly
  • Comes with a one-year limited warranty

Pros

  • Highly durable and a heavy-duty cart
  • Extremely versatile in terms of use
  • High easily maneuverable tires

Cons

  • The customer service is not up to mark
  • The point where the handle attaches is weak

3. Agri-Fab 750-Pound Tow Behind Dump Cart

If you are looking for something that can provide you with maximum utility while having the ability to glide across all terrains without any problems, the Agri-Fab 45-0101 Tow Behind Dump Cart is the perfect choice for you. The cart is a good choice if you have a medium to large yard.

Here are some key features:

  • Made in the United States and features only a few imported components
  • Features a 750-pound load capacity which makes it a heavy-duty dump cart
  • Comes with 16-inch pneumatic tires which allows easy maneuverability over rough terrain
  • Easy to maintain and is extremely durable which means that it’ll last a long time
  • The steel bed is resistant to scratches and the powder-coat finish extends the products’ lifespan

Pros

  • Highly durable and easy to use
  • Extremely sturdy
  • Two-step assembly process
  • Made of good quality materials

Cons

  • Not very easy to assemble

4. Craftsman CMXGZBF7124247 Tow Poly Cart

As a brand, Craftsman has an excellent reputation in the market when it comes to home gardening tools and supplies. The CMXGZBF7124247 Tow Poly Cart is not only of a high-quality but also features a decent capacity of 1000 lb which makes it an excellent choice for your largest jobs.

In addition to that, the cart comes with pneumatic ribbed types that gently roll across the lawn.

Here are some key features:

  • Comes with 15-inch ribbed pneumatic tires which makes the cart easy to maneuver across the estate
  • Easy to assemble—takes less than thirty minutes
  • Manufactured in the United States
  • Suitable to use in all seasons
  • Features a durable steel frame and poly beds
  • Resistant to scratches

Pros

  • Light in weight and pulls perfectly
  • Easy handling and maneuverability
  • Highly durable
  • Dump release smooth and easy to use

Cons

  • Takes two people to assemble

5. Agri-Fab 800lb Poly Tow Behind Dump Cart

When looking for the top dump cart for lawn tractors, the Agri-FabPoly Tow Behind Dump Cart is one that you’ll definitely come across. With a capacity of 800 pounds, this dump cart will make garden work more efficient for you and will help you save a lot of precious time.

Here are some key features:

  • Features easy to maintain grease fitting wheels which is extremely convenient
  • The steel frame is resistant to scratches
  • Comes with a durable poly bed
  • The dump pedal is foot activated which is highly convenient
  • Comes with 16-in pneumatic tires that make the cart easy to maneuver across all types of terrains

Pros

  • Highly durable and extremely sturdy
  • Highly well-constructed
  • Heavy in weight

Cons

  • The customer services aren’t up to the mark

6. 10 Cubic Foot Steel Dump Cart

If you’re looking for a good-quality dump cart for odd jobs around the yard–such as transporting tools, landscaping material, animal feed, etc., this 10 Cubic Foot Steel Dump Cart by Yard Commander is the perfect choice for you.

With a 400 pound load capacity, this cart can handle light to medium duty tasks with ease.

Here are some key features:

  • Comes with a 400-pound load capacity which makes the cart a good choice for carrying tools, landscaping material, etc.
  • Goes well with most residential tractors and ATVs
  • Features a foot pedal release mechanism for easy dumping
  • Comes with rust-resistant powder coat finish

Pros

  • Excellent for light gardening work
  • A good choice for large lawn or a small estate
  • Value for money

Cons

  • Can’t take heavy loads

7. MotoAlliance Impact Implements Heavy Duty Utility Cart

This MotoAlliance Impact Implements ATV/UTV Heavy Duty Utility Cart is one of the best dump carts for lawn tractors. The cart features removable mesh side rails and has a load capacity of 1500 pounds, helping you save time and increase efficiency.

Here are some key features:

  • Features a 1500-pound load capacity which is more than enough for a large estate
  • Comes with removable steel mesh side rails which increase the convenience
  • Is fitted with 18-inch pneumatic tires which makes it easy to maneuver across even the roughest terrains
  • Features a quick-release latch as well as a tilt trailer bed

Pros

  • Performs well in all situations
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Excellent and highly durable for the price

Cons

  • Harder to assemble

Different Types of Dump Carts Available to Buy

There are a few types of dump carts available to buy on the market. Take a look at the following:

Poly Tub Trailer

The Poly Tub trailer is one of the most expensive dump cart types available to buy on the market owing to the fact that it offers the highest quality that justifies the increased price range.

These trailers come with a tub made of sturdy plastic materials that are crack resistant and highly durable. These trailers are also water-tight which means that you can use them to transport watery items without worrying about any leakage.

The trailers are also easy to clean–all you need to do is to hose them with water!

Structural Form Trailer

The structural form trailers feature low-density polymer tubs with side pockets which allows you to extend its sides. Owing to the low-quality materials used, these trailers can get stained and scratched easily.

Plastic Tub Trailer

If you’re on a tight budget, a plastic tub trailer may prove to be a good option for you. While the trailer looks like a poly tub trailer, the material used in it is comparatively thinner and less durable.

This makes it unsuitable for carrying heavy loads.

Steel Trailer

A steel trailer is a good option if you’re looking for something that comes with a removable tailgate–something that allows you to dump the load cleanly. This also implies that you don’t need to use a shovel to remove the load from the trailer.

However, these trailers are on the expensive side of things.

One of the biggest drawbacks of steel trailers is that they tend to rust if you transfer watery or other messy contents.

Buying Guide

we will like to go over a few things that you should consider when looking to buy a dump cart for lawn tractors.

Maximum Weight Capacity

Dump carts belong to two categories:

  • Below or 800 lbs
  • Below or 2000 lbs

The higher the capacity of the cart of carrying load, the higher the price point. This is generally due to the fact that the strength of the cart’s frame determines its weight capacity. 

You need to determine the amount of load you’ll need to carry to choose the right capacity to fulfill your needs.

Mobility

The mobility of the cart can enhance convenience. There are a lot of things that determine mobility such as the size of the cart’s wheels, the material used, tread, etc.

In addition to that, you should check to see if the frame and hitch of the trailer allow your cart to swivel–something that’ll help you maneuver it in tight spaces.

Size

The size of the cart (the cubic footage description of the cart) helps you estimate the amount of load it can carry. This capacity depends upon several factors:

  • the durability and strength of the frame
  • The shape, size, and engineering of the cart

Extra Features

If you’re going to be using the dump on a regular basis, you should also look into some additional features:

Hydraulic Lift

A hydraulic life helps raise the tub using a smooth and easy mechanism which simplifies the process!

Manual Lift

A manual lift helps you lift the tub by grasping the handle which comes into handy and increases user convenience.

Conclusion

Did you find what you were looking for?

 

A high-quality dump cart can increase your efficiency and save you a lot of time. However, the right cart:

  • Features a large enough capacity to meet all your gardening needs
  • Is made of durable materials
  • Fits your budget

In this article, we went through the best of the best dump carts available in the market.

Have questions? Leave them in the comments, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!

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