Choosing a Scythe Mower

These heavy duty grass cutting machines are recommended for many applications including long grass, brambles, bracken, gorse and reed beds. In particular they are recommended for orchards and wild flower meadows where they can be used to cut tall grasses near ground level, meaning the grass can easily gathered but the following year’s wild flower seeds are left on the surface of the soil to germinate.

Features to look out for on scythe mowers are all gear drive, adjustable handlebars so that the machine can be used by people of different heights and a floating cutting head that will compensate for uneven ground. Also valuable are edge protection mechanisms that stop the scythe blade from hitting against walls and kerbs and a blade height adjuster. Most machines come with a an anti-vibration mechanism which stops the machine jarring the hands and arms of the user when working in rough conditions.

It is sensible to wear safety clothing when operating a scythe mower such as a visor, gloves, leggings and boots, especially if cutting brambles or nettles.

Some scythe mowers are actually combination task machines which can not only cut long grass but can be fitted with a rear tine cultivator and ploughing attachments for creating furrows in which to plant vegetables.

Scythe mowers are invaluable for orchard and wild meadow enthusiasts. Scythe mower courtesy of www.gardening-tools-direct.co.uk

 

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