Knowing the right mowing height and frequency is just what you need to make your lawn healthy and attractive.
And so is getting the right mower.
With the right mower, you could save yourself a lot of stress and achieve a decent-looking lawn in the shortest time possible.
More so, an efficient mower will help you to mow through tough undulating terrains with ease.
I’ve, therefore, come up with a few mowers that are just right for those with properties that check-in right at or around 7 acres.
In this article, you’ll find the best mowers for 7 and 8 acres including a buying guide that’ll help you to pick the right one for your lawn.
How to Choose the Right Riding Lawn Mower
Here are some things to consider when picking the best mower for 7 acres.
Type of Mower
There are two types of riding lawn mowers for 7 acres; lawn tractors and zero-turn-radius (ZTR) lawn tractors.
ZTR lawn tractors take all points for maneuverability, speed, and efficiency, though they are more expensive.
These tractors feature levers instead of a steering wheel that allows the user to easily maneuver and make clean cuts while mowing their lawn.
Lawn tractors are small-scale tractors suitable for mowing lawns.
The best things about them are that they’re inexpensive and they allow for attachments like snow blowers. They’re, however, quite slow and somewhat inefficient.
Type of Lawn
If you’re mowing a flat lawn with few or no obstacles, only think of a lawn tractor.
But if your lawn has slopes, rocks, flowerbeds, trees, and several other obstacles that would make maintaining it a hassle, it’s best to go for a ZTR lawn tractor.
Gas Or Electric Mowers
Electric mowers could save you a lot on gas, but that doesn’t make them the most efficient option.
When mowing an area of 7 acres, gas-powered mowers perform best. However, gas mowers tend to be noisy and require more frequent maintenance.
Deck Size
If you were initially planning on getting a ZTR mower, then you must take the deck size into consideration before settling for one.
The deck size equals the blade length and it determines how fast grass can be cut. This means that the larger the deck the faster your lawn gets cut. Most ZTR mowers have cutting decks from 40 to 60 inches.
Mower Transmission
Just like cars, mowers come with some types of transmission. Transmission here means the transfer of power from the engine of the mower to its wheel.
Riding lawn mowers come with three types of transmission as explained below.
Manual or Gear-Driven Transmission: With manual transmission mowers, you would be shifting gears each time you change the speed. It is durable but it could be very difficult to use, especially if your lawn is not flat and obstacle-free.
Automatic Transmission: This type of mower does all the hard work for you just like automatic cars. And it costs more than their manual transmission counterparts.
Hydrostatic Transmission: Hydrostatic transmission mowers use fluid to shift power from the engine to the wheels. Overall, they offer the best experience when it comes to riding mowers and they are very expensive and require more routine maintenance.
Engine Power
You would need a lawn mower with a powerful engine that can cut grass as fast and clean as possible when cutting an area as wide as 7 acres.
Engine power can either be determined by Horsepower (HP) or cubic centimeters (cc). Generally, the higher the HP or cc the more powerful the engine, and the faster it will cut grass.
For an area of 7 acres, you should be looking at a mower of 20HP and 700cc or higher.
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Best Mowers for 7 Acres
1. Husqvarna Z254 Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
Husqvarna is known for making some of the most efficient lawn mowers and in its product line is the Z254 Kohler Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower.
This 51-inch zero turn riding mower delivers a 24 HP and 747cc engine power suitable for large lawns of more than 5 acres.
One of the striking features of the mower is its 51-inch cutting deck. For users looking to save time on mowing their lawns, this could make a great difference.
The large deck size could spare you a lot of time. Also, its max speed of 6.5 MPH could help you to get fast and clean cuts while mowing your lawn.
Mowing an area of 7 acres could take some time, so you would need a lawn mower with just the right body design to keep you comfortable while you mow.
Design-wise, the Z254 mower scores good points. Its high back seat and armrests are quite comfortable; it tops it off with foam-padded hand grips and vibration dampeners that make mowing enjoyable for hours on end.
Furthermore, the Z254 mower is gas-powered with a fuel tank volume of 3.5 gallons. This is sufficient enough for you to mow your lawn in a single run.
Although you get a mower that ticks all the checkboxes for durability and efficiency, keep your heads up while using it.
Like all ZTR mowers, it has its engine at the rear, which increases the likelihood of turning over when going up hilly areas.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Fast and efficient lawn mower
- Long warranty
Cons
- Less efficient with uphill or uneven lawns
2. Husqvarna MZ61 Hydrostatic Zero Turn Riding Mower
Although it features a longer deck size than the Z254 mower mentioned above, it comes with the same horsepower of 24HP.
However, the longer deck size means that you will get to mow your lawn in a shorter amount of time. This extra benefit comes with a higher price tag.
Among other features are a max speed of 8 mph and a productivity of 4.2 acres/hr (the actual productivity will depend on the lawn type).
More efficiency means a fast-performing mower but it also means that you could run out of gas really quickly.
Luckily, the MZ61 mower makes up for this with a larger tank. It features a large capacity 5-gallon tank, which you won’t have to use up while mowing your lawn.
Just like the Husqvarna Z254, the MZ61 mower features a high-back seat with armrests that will boost your comfort level.
Other features like foam-padded hand and vibration dampeners make riding this mower extremely comfortable.
The MZ61 has many amazing features; one notable feature you’d love is its ability to mow hilly lawns. Even though you’ve got steep hills on your lawns, you can rely on the sturdy tires to get you through without trenching your lawn.
While all these features make the MZ61 mower look like the perfect choice for users, assembling and starting it up for the first time could pose some issues.
The best solution is to get a professional (for first-timers) and go through the user’s manual as many times as possible.
Pros
- Wider deck size
- Effective on hilly lawns
- Comfortable to use
Cons
- Could be difficult to assemble and startup
Related: Ariens Vs Husqvarna Zero Turn Mowers
3. Ariens Company Apex 60 Lawn Tractor
Out of the box, the APEX 60 – 991157 is a high-power ZTR mower with an engine power of 25HP. This is just a little more than the other models on this list. But it could mean a lot while you mowing your lawn.
The Ariens APEX 60 – 991157 features a 61-inch deck. This and its high engine power put together make mowing easier and faster.
A top feature of the mower is the ease with which it can be assembled. All you need to do is to hook up the battery, reverse the handle and it’s good to go.
Moving on to design, the mower comes with the same high-back padded seat with armrests as in many other brands.
It also features 15 cutting height positions that allow you to mow your lawn to any grass height between 1.5 inches and 4.5 inches.
While it does come with many beneficial features including a deck depth of 5 inches made of 10-gauge steel that allows for shorter mowing time, it does have a few shortcomings.
Although it operates smoothly, it vibrates quite loudly and rattles in the deck area when in operation. You could easily overlook the noise depending on your sensitivity to sound.
Wearing a pair of earmuffs could give you the needed comfort if it bothers you.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- Highly efficient and powerful engine
- Easy to assembly and startup
Cons
- PTO start-up vibration could be very disturbing.
4. Husqvarna MZ61 27HP
This Husqvarna MZ61 27HP is an upgrade to the Husqvarna MZ61 24HP already listed above.
Its 27 HP engine power means it would mow faster and save you some time even though it still comes with the same deck size of 61 inches.
Unlike the Husqvarna MZ61 24HP that comes with a Kawasaki engine, this model features a Briggs & Stratton engine.
No doubt Kawasaki engine mowers are considered to be the best and most powerful among riding mowers but Briggs & Stratton counterparts are just as good.
As said earlier, this model features a 61-inch deck made up of 11-gauge steel, which is just what you get from the 24HP model.
Other similarities include a foot-operated deck lift with 12 cutting height steps in increments ranging from 1.5 inches to 4.5 inches, blade-tip speed of 18500 fpm with electric clutch blade engagement, fuel tank volume size of 5 gallons, and hydrostatic transmission drive system.
Choosing between both models could be tricky since they are almost similar in all areas. However, the difference in engine types does make a significant impact on the price.
This model comes with a higher engine power of 27 HP; its engine type, Briggs & Stratton makes it more affordable than the 24 HP model.
This is not to say that the Briggs & Stratton engine on the model is inefficient because it isn’t.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t pack enough power and fails to idle smoothly, which is something that comes easy to the 24HP model with a Kawasaki engine
Pros
- A perfect mower for a large relatively flat area
- Quick and efficient
- The mowing process is quiet
Cons
- Serviceability could be quite a hassle due to the design
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5. Ariens 915223 IKON-X Kawasaki FR691 Series
This is the medium model in the IKON XD Series models and it’s just suitable for areas of 7 acres and less.
The features of this model may not be as impressive as the others I’ve listed here but it comes at just the right price for individuals on a tight budget looking for an efficient ZTR mower.
First, it packs an engine power of 23HP 726cc, powerful enough to mow a lawn of 7 acres in less than 5 hours. The Ariens 915223 features a Kawasaki engine, one of the most powerful and efficient engines found in mowers.
Its 2.8-gallon fuel tank is enough to keep you running while you mow. Like other models, it comes with a foot-operated deck lift system made of 11-gauge steel.
Additionally, it features 13 cutting positions with cutting height increments ranging from 1.5 inches to 4.5 inches.
Overall, the Ariens 915223 comes with just the right features and price. One of its drawbacks is that it makes a lot of noise on PTO just like some IKON-XD models.
You would notice this noise as a rattle and deep vibration around the deck area. This sound could be disturbing but it doesn’t affect the efficiency of the mower in any way.
Pros
- Powerful engine
- Sturdy and durable
- 3-year warranty
- 13 cutting height positions
Cons
- Doesn’t come with lights
- PTO start-up vibration
6. Ariens 991151 IKON-XD Kawasaki FR730 V
The Ariens 991151 is an upgrade from the Ariens 915223 and the largest model in the IKON-XD series.
It features many advanced and improved features. It, however, still comes with the same 23HP 726 cc engine you can find in the medium models in the IKON-XD series.
This means that the Ariens 991151 has the same engine power as the other models but it would mow your lawn faster due to its superior deck size.
The mower comes with a deck size of 60 inches and 13 cutting positions with cutting height increments of 1.5 inches to 4.5 inches. This is the only standard feature that separates this model from the rest.
It still features the same foot-operated deck-lift system made up of 11-gauge steel. Its max speed still clocks at 7 mph as in other models and its fuel tank capacity remains at 2.8 gallons.
There is no significant reason for you to upgrade to this model if you own the medium model. But it would be the better option if you’re a first-time buyer as its wider deck size will reduce your mowing time.
Unfortunately, this model doesn’t deal with the rattle and deep vibration sounds that plague the IKON-XD series.
The sound is most pronounced when you turn on the mower and after you turn off the blades. While in use, you would notice more vibration and rattle but they are not too disturbing to stop you from mowing.
You could reduce the rattling and vibration by making some modifications to the blades (this should be done by a professional).
Overall, the Ariens 991151 is a top product with a powerful Kawasaki engine suitable for large areas of 7 acres, 8 acres, and more.
Pros
- Wider deck size
- Powerful and efficient engine
- 3 years warranty
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- Noise during operation
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Best Way to Mow Large Acreage
The practices below are the best ways to mow a large acreage and achieve the best results.
Time Correctly
When trimming the grass on your lawn, you won’t want to cut so low that the soil becomes visible. This makes the lawn less attractive and more prone to weed infestation.
Time your mowing correctly so that you never remove more than one-third of the total leaf surface to keep your lawn as attractive as possible.
Most lawn grasses have ideal mowing heights ranging from ½ – 2 inches. Avoid cutting the grass too short as a scalped lawn is most vulnerable to weed infestation and diseases.
Mow a Dry Lawn
Always try to mow your lawn only when it’s dry, especially if your lawn has several slopes.
Wet grass creates slippery footing which could lead to serious injuries. Also, wet clipping could clog your mower — shortening its lifespan and reducing its efficiency.
Always mow your lawn in the early evening, depending on the weather. If it didn’t rain throughout the day, your lawn would be dry and the sun not be as intense as it would be at the peak of the day.
Avoid Mowing on a Schedule
Instead of mowing on a schedule, mow according to your grass type, growing conditions, season, and growth pattern.
In the spring season, you would need to mow your lawn more frequently (as much as twice a week) than you would in the summer or at the end of the growing season.
This is because the grass is actively growing during spring.
Vary Your Mowing Pattern
Mowing in the same pattern could save time as you would get used to it in a matter of time. However, this could be detrimental to the health of your lawn.
When you mow in the same pattern, your grass gets used to the direction it’s been cut from and begins to lean toward your mowing direction.
This could lead to compacted soil and cause ruts to form in your lawn. Your lawn will look healthier and you would reduce the chances of ruts forming in your lawn by varying the mowing pattern.
Sharpen Your Mower Blades
Sharp mower blades cut grass evenly and produce the best results. Dull blades, on the other hand, tear up grass, causing ragged, brown edges.
When used continuously, the grass will weaken over time, making it more susceptible to insect damage, disease, and drought.
Check your mower blades for signs of wear just before you mow and sharpen the blades when necessary.
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How Do You Manage a Large Lawn?
For some people, managing their lawns is more of a chore than a hobby.
But you could keep your lawn neat and attractive without having to spend much time if you have the right things to do.
Below are some tips to follow when managing a lawn.
Get the Right Mower
The right mower will not only save you mowing time but also cut your lawn evenly and neatly.
The perfect mowers for large lawns are usually a big financial investment, so carefully pick the one for your lawn. You can take a look at the options I’ve listed above as they are just perfect for large lawns.
Mow Correctly
Mow direction, frequency, and timing are important practices that determine how healthy your lawn will look.
You will end up with a better-looking lawn that won’t require much maintenance if you do things just right.
The tips above on the best way to mow your lawn for standard practices will help you to keep your lawn neat and attractive.
Supply Water Regularly
A reliable water sprinkler system is a must if you want to keep your lawn green and healthy.
Setting up a water sprinkler system on a lawn of 7 acres would require a tremendous effort but after that, the effort is usually worth it.
Final Words
Most riding lawn mowers for 7 and 8 acres are very expensive, so you won’t want to go wrong on your purchase.
The options listed above consist of different engine types, engine power, pricing, and several other features that should meet different budgets and preferences.
Before settling for any of the mowers for 7 acres above, use the buying guide to decide which mower would be best for your lawn.
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I have 7+ acres to mow. Most the lawn is on steep hills. I understood that zero turn mowers are too light in the front and tip over on steep grades. What type mower should i use