Mulching is defined as the practice of spreading a layer of material on the grass. It is a widespread practice among gardeners and commercial-scale workers; that is done to improve the quality of the soil. When a layer of mulch is applied to the surface of the grass, it acts to provide nutrients to the soil, which further helps improve plant growth and productivity. Mulching also helps conserve moisture and reduces the growth of weeds. So if you dream of a healthy green lawn, too, it is essential that you adopt this practice.
Purchasing a multi-functional lawn mower can help you with your mulching needs. A good self-propelled mulching lawnmower can be hard to find. Moreover, it can be expensive too! If you, too, are puzzled, looking to find the best self propelled mulching lawn mower for your yard. This article is the one for you. Listed below are 7 highly rated products that allow top quality mulching. We’ve included a range of products in different price ranges so you can select the option that appeals the most to you.
Table of Contents
7 Best Self Propelled Mulching Lawn Mower
Greenworks 12 Amp 20-Inch 3-in-1 Electric Corded Lawn Mower, 25022
- Durable 20-inch steel deck
- Powerful 12 amp motor cuts through the toughest grass
- Durable steel 21-inch cutting deck gets the job done quicker and more efficiently
- 3-in-1 system - mulch, rear bagging, and side discharge
- Single lever 7 position height adjustment
- Important : Use 14 gauge 50’ or 12 gauge 100’ extension cord
Greenworks yard tools are one of the most popular ones in the market. Other than being less expensive, the products are also reliable and offer outstanding quality. Since most of Greenworks is battery powered, it also helps contribute to a greener environment. Likewise, the Greenworks 25022 is no less of a performer. This easy to operate mower helps you clear and mulch your lawn with minimal effort and ease.
3 in 1 functionality
This mower provides you with 3 clipping management options. Bagging, mulching and side discharge. Users have commented that it does a decent job at all three. In regards to mulching, this lawnmower is a pro. According to consumer reports, it manages the clipping precisely and disperses them across the lawn evenly. Other than that, it is also easy to shift between the settings. There are, however, some concerns for people who have larger bladed grass. There have been reports that the mower tends to clog easily with this kind.
- Ease of use
This is an electric powered mower that weighs around a total of 56 lbs. The light weight makes it impeccably easy to push and manoeuvre around. Moreover, since the mower supports self propulsion, it makes it suitable for use on hilly and uneven terrains as well.
- Power
The Greenworks 25022 features a 12 Amp in-built motor. This delivers sufficient power to the axle. The quality of the cut has been reported to be splendid. Moreover, since this is electric powered, there is a plus point of saving on regular maintenance oil money. Also, there is none of that overbearing smell or gas emissions. The only problem users face is the cord. Some found it to be quite troublesome.
Bottom Line
For the final verdict, we highly recommend buying this mower. It is easy to operate, offers a good cut and is light on the pocket too! It can easily tackle mowing all kinds of grass; however, the performance is limited as for mulching.
Lawn-Boy 17734 21-Inch 6.5 Gross Torque Kohler Electric Start
- Rear Wheel Drive System provides a better traction and control on hilly terrain
- 2-Point Height-of-Cut System allows you to quickly adjust cutting heights from one side of the mower. Height of Cut- 6 Position 1.25 – 3.75 inches. Cutting Width- 21 inch
- 3 year Tru-Start Commitment - starts with 1 or 2 pulls or Lawn-Boy will fix it for free
- Kohler 149cc/ 6.5 ft.-lbs. Gross Torque/ OHV Engine
- CARB Compliant for the state of California
Another best self propelled mulching lawn mower that you should check out is the Lawn-Boy 17734. Like Greenworks, this brand, too, is known best for its quality and affordability. In fact, Lawn-Boy and Greenworks have been the leading competitors in the yard tool market. If you are having difficulty choosing which one to buy, check out the features listed below.
Power
This unit comes with a Kohler 149cc XTX engine. It provides an ample amount of energy to the mower and allows for a fine cut. This model also features an electric start mode which saves the hassle of pulling cords. You just have to turn the ignition and start to mow. Moreover, the engine also provides a low amount of vibration and noise, thus taking the strain out of the task
- Quality of Mulch
The motor comes along with a tri-cutting blade which allows for cutting, mulching and discharging. It is 21 inches in diameter, and its curved shape ensures a fantastic cut. As for mulching, the Lawn-Boy 17734 performs a superb job. Most reviewers said that the model is an “exemplary” mulching mower. It is important to note that this tool doesn’t mulch wet grass very well. So make sure the grass is dry to obtain 100% performance.
- Ease of use
The Lawn Boy 17734 comes with a large number of additional features that help to aid user experience. Firstly, it has a two point height adjustment to customize your cut height quickly. Secondly, it comes with a large bag that has a collection capacity of 18.6 gallons, which is perfect for most lawns. Lastly, it features a self propelled rear wheel transmission, which accounts for a more significant amount of traction. This helps make the tool easy to maneuver even when the bag is loaded. There are, however, concerns when it comes to pulling the mower backwards.
Bottom Line
Overall, the Lawnboy 17734 is an excellent purchase for medium-sized lawns. The tool comes with excellent mulching capabilities and requires less maintenance. For the price, it performs better than expected.
Craftsman M215 159cc 21-Inch 3-in-1 Mulching Lawn Mower
- POWERFUL 159CC OHV GAS ENGINE: Powerful gas engine comes equipped with recoil and auto choke. No more fussing with a primer or choke - just pull to start!
- 3-IN-1 CAPABILITIES: Unit has side discharge, rear discharge, and mulching capabilities.
- SELF PROPELLED AND VARIABLE SPEED: Move around your yard with less effort and the propulsion speed of your choice.
Be it any list of lawnmowers that you search up. Craftsman products are guaranteed to be included. The brand has earned its name through the reputation of its quality parts which account for the longevity of its mowers. It has been reported that the life expectancy of its tools (with proper care and maintenance) averages about 20 years. Likewise, Craftsman M215 offers a nice load of features to give your lawn its rightful bragging rights.
Power
This lawnmower comes with a powerful 150cc OHV gas engine that is equipped with an auto choke and recoil. This allows the engine to startup effortlessly each time. The machine has a front wheel transmission which allows for easier management of the mower when mowing. In addition to that, the engine transmits a good amount of power for the cut.
- Mulching ability
Most of the users (experts and customers alike) comment that cutting and mulching ability is exceptional. Along with a 21 inch steel deck that ensures constant circulation of the grass, the mower consists of a versatile blade that gives grass a more delicate, precise cut. All these factors aid in the quality of the mulch and allow it to be spread over the yard easily.
- Self propulsion & durability
The self propulsion ability is enhanced thanks to the variable speed settings on this model. All the speeds are convenient to handle. None too slow and none too fast. This allows you to adjust your machine to your needs accordingly, which boosts customer satisfaction. This product is also highly durable due to its 11 inch rear wheels. They provide the mower with a large amount of traction that allows it to move between hills and rough surfaces easily.
Bottom Line
For quick and up to mark yard maintenance, Craftsman M215 is a great pick. A lot of customers were satisfied with its mulching abilities that were even functional on rougher terrains. Self propulsion at an affordable price also made this product a customer favourite. Although noise and gas emissions may be a down point for some. The cut quality overcomes this disadvantage.
Troy-Bilt 12AVA2MR766 21 in. Self-Propelled 3-in-1 Mulching Lawn Mower
- 1.9 bushel rear bag collects grass clippings for easy clean up or composting
- Mulch kit included to help put nutrients back into soil for a healthier lawn
- Side discharge chute comes with handy, built-in clip to attach to handle when not in use
- California residents see Prop 65 Warnings
The Troy Bilt is another well known and trustable brand that has built its name through the years. As far as its competition is concerned, this best self propelled mulching lawnmower is a little bit pricier. Nevertheless, the value for money is good. It is a gas-powered mower built with a 21 inch deck and 6 variable height adjustments, which ensure that your lawn looks as gorgeous as ever.
Power
The Troy-Bilt comes with an MTD manufactured 159cc OHV engine. For what you pay, the engine source does seem insufficient. However, it does manage to conserve its fuel more efficiently than its competitors. This allows it to develop more energy per unit time, further leading to a smooth cut that is light on the wallet too!
- Mulching ability
This model features a powerful Triaction cutting system along with 6 adjustable heights, which helps you bag, mulch or discharge grass easily. As for mulching, the Troy-Bilt has been equipped with an innovative blade that efficiently cuts the grass into more refined pieces before dispersing them. In addition to that, this lawn mower also comes with a rake that it built in the bumper. This allows the grass blades to be appropriately positioned for a more effective mow/mulch. Lastly, the deck of the mower is domed in shape; this is to ensure proper circulation of air as well as grass clippings so that a better quality of mulch is achieved.
- Front wheel drive
In comparison to rear wheel and all-wheel drives, front wheel drives are easier to control and maneuver. Adding this kind of transmission aids in the ease of use, thus making lawn maintenance less of a hassle. The mower also has an intelligent wheel adjustment, so bends and curved terrains are not a problem.
Bottom Line
The Troy Bilt, although it costs you a few more bucks, offers the best mulching capability compared to its peers. It really brings out the essence of gardening and makes it a joy. While it is more suitable for the regular maintenance of medium sized lawns, it can perform decently on larger properties. That is if it is provided with enough fuel, of course.
PowerSmart DB2322S 22″ 3-in-1 196cc Gas Self Propelled Lawn Mower for mulching
- Powered by 196 cc engine delivering the right amount of power in a compact, lightweight package
- Easy pull starting
- 3-in-1 bag, side discharge and mulching capability allows you to spread grass clippings to the side, returning key nutrients to your lawn so your grass can grow healthy and thick
- 2 Years Limited Warranty
Looking for something that’s all about performance and durability? PowerSmart may be your best bet. This product is a highly reliable tool that gives your lawn the gorgeous manicure it deserves. It is a gas-powered mower meaning that it’s suitable for larger land plots and it is self-propelled, thus, an excellent pick for children and elders alike. However, if you’re looking for something budget friendly, this may not be suitable for you.
22″ steel deck
Most lawn mowers offer an 18 to 20 inch steel deck for your mowing needs. However, this is not the case with PowerSmart. Not only does it offer a 22-inch steel deck that can cut through the toughest of turf, it also comes with a dome-shaped deck that aids to your mulching needs.
- Mulch ability
This product is equipped with a sharp and highly innovative blade that helps refine the clippings in a precise manner. This, as well as the dome-shaped deck, ensure that the surface area of the clippings is maximized before being discharged. Therefore, the mulching capability is exceptional. In fact, there were many customers that reported a lusher and healthier looking lawn after they purchased this product.
- Versatility
The PowerSmart is a versatile product for which no obstacle is a match. This mower has been reported to withstand the toughest of conditions. Whether it be grass grown over 6 inches, tough weed, hilly terrains, bends or curves, none are a match for this mower. This tool has been reported to perform amazingly in every category.
Bottom Line
All in all, the PowerSmart DB2322S is a wonderful tool to have in your yard. It is a product that is fantastic at mulching, convenient to use and offers a large number of features that serve your lawn’s health. While it is an expensive option, the performance is generally up to the mark. The only problem you may have is with the flimsy discharge chute and the robustness of the deck.
EGO Power+ LM2130SP 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Select Cut Lawn Mower
- Select Cut Multi-Blade System for premium cutting performance that exceeds gas
- Get 60 minutes of run time on single charge when used with the recommended 56V 7.5 Ah ARC Lithium battery
- High-efficiency brushless motor
- 7-position cutting height adjustments: 1.5- 4
- 3-in-1 function: Mulching, bagging, side discharge
- 21 deck
- Bright LED headlights
Another awe-inspiring product worth putting your attention to is the EGO power select cut. This battery powered lawnmower gives you a gas mower type of performance without leaving you panting for breath. Equipped with touch drive self-drive technology and batteries that sustain a run time of as long as 60 minutes, this is sure to make your mowing experience a pleasure.
Power
The EGO power select cut is featured with a high-efficiency brushless motor that delivers plenty of power to the machine. Accompanied with a new multi-blade system, this gives your grass a premium cut that matches the performance of a gas mower. Since the battery is not provided, it is advised to use a 56V 7.5 Ah Lithium battery for optimum performance.
- Multi-Blade Cutting system
This best self-propelled mulching lawnmower is best known for its advanced cutting system, which features 3 interchangeable blades that are designed to give you the cut of your choice. The three blades included in the set are; the mulching blade, bagging blade and extended runtime blade. Each of these is customized to give different results. That is, the sharpness and shape have been individually adjusted to fit your preference.
- Mulch ability
This cordless lawn mower offers a top-quality mulching capability. The blades cut through even the toughest clippings with no problem and much more quietly than a standard gas powered mower as well. It is great for weekly use, and the battery requires a low charging time too. Plus, you can adjust the speed of your mower in order to get the job done faster.
Bottom Line
This is a highly versatile mower that can stand all kinds of grass. It is a good investment in terms of cut quality and mulching ability; however, it is much pricier than other tools on the market that offer similar quality.
For the final product on our list, we have incorporated another cordless lawnmower from Worx. This brand offers medium-priced yard tools that are good in quality. Consumers particularly love their mowers as they provide an extended warranty period for their products.
Performance
The Worx Nitro exceeds a gas mower when it comes to its performance. It cuts grass effectively and provides a better cutting experience than most mowers.
- 21 inch steel deck
A large deck ensures fewer round trips on your lawn and easier management. The shape of this deck, in particular, accounts for supreme air and grass circulation that helps mulch reach its maximum potential before being expelled. Thus, guaranteeing great mulch ability.
- Easy to use
Other than being extremely lightweight, the tool is also very compact and easy to store. In addition to that, it’s easy to start up and requires minimum effort to assemble. Plus, no pesky cords to trip over! This is a great option for children under 16 and senior citizens as well.
Bottom Line
The Worx Nitro is a good option for regular mulchers. It is a strong option for new buyers as well. While there have been a considerable number of complaints about the battery life, its performance is good enough to dismiss the latter.
Buyer’s Guide for Best Self Propelled Mulching Lawn Mower
With so many products available on the market, it can be hard to pick what lawnmower to buy. In order to purchase the best mulching lawn mower, there are some features you should inspect.
Budget
A good mulching lawn mower can cost you anywhere from $200 to $1000. To get the best value for your money, opt to check out the functionalities of each product and try to opt for something mid-range. Remember to check for features like deck size, blade type, power transmission and go for around $300-$400.
Front-wheel or rear wheel
Take a look at your lawn and assess its ground surface. Does your yard have a lot of obstacles but is evenly levelled? Then a front-wheel drive is a better option for you as it’ll allow you to direct the traction away from the front wheels and turn appropriately. On the other hand, if you have to mow around hills and bends, a rear-wheel-drive is more suitable. This is because rear-wheel transmissions allow the front wheels to retain traction, aiding the ascent on hills.
Gas or electric mower?
This depends on the yard you are mulching. For regular mulchers who have a large lawn, a gas-powered mower is the best option. The benefits of this are that there are no cords that limit movement, nor do you have to recharge each time. For smaller yard owners that mulch rarely, an electric mower is more suitable. Other than aiding the environment, it ensures a hassle-free mowing experience.
Final Thoughts
There you have it. There were some of the best self-propelled mulching lawnmowers as of 2021. Each product has been added after a careful assessment of its pros, cons and reviews. Though the products vary in their prices and number of features, each of them guarantees the lawn of your dreams. So whether you pick an electric, battery-powered or gas mower, it’ll be a productive choice indeed.