Zero-turn rotary mowers with catch baskets: these options are available.
Zero-turn circle mowers are designed to provide lawn mowing efficiency by minimizing the need for time-consuming turning maneuvers and allowing you to navigate around obstacles. Work can also be made easy with a grass catcher that collects lawn clippings directly.
The devices are generally suitable for large lawns, where zero-turn mowers help make the work easy, since retouching around trees or shrubs is minimized. A grass catcher can help save additional time by eliminating the need to collect clippings.
How zero-turn mowers work
Most zero-turn mowers are controlled by two steering levers that act directly with the hydraulic motor to drive the wheels. When the steering levers are moved simultaneously, the unit moves either forwards or backwards. By moving the steering levers in different directions, this allows the zero-turn mower to turn on the spot in one direction . However, there are also models that may require less practice when handling the classic steering wheel and can be comfortably controlled in the usual manner.
Models with a steering wheel, thanks to their compact design, can provide a good overview from the driver's seat to the area to be mowed. In addition, the design typically allows for large cutting widths of up to 183 cm, as with the Cub Cadet Z9 183ID, designed to offer excellent efficiency.
The tires are designed to keep ground pressure low and minimize marks on the lawn. While the rear drive wheels help provide the necessary grip, the two smaller front wheels are used to carry the mower deck and follow the contour of the ground for a precise cut.
Most zero-turn mowers are equipped with a side discharge, but do, sometimes, come with a rear discharge. The most common is the mulching principle, where grass clippings are released directly onto the surface. However, this is only recommended for short clippings that can decompose quickly. Otherwise, a zero-turn mower with a grass catcher makes more sense.
Advantages of a zero-turn
A zero turn mower with or without a grass catcher has a number of advantages, especially on flat lawns:
- low pressure on ground surface due to large rear tires
- precise cutting results
- variable cutting height option for grass catcher
- minimal retouch along edges or around trees
- operating comfort
- partial possibility for further attachments for versatility
Zero-turn mower with grass catcher
A grass catcher gathers the clippings immediately during the mowing process, avoiding the need for manual collection, and, in turn, can save you time. However, since some zero-turns are equipped with side discharge, a grass catcher may not be available with all models.
Some Cub Cadet zero-turn models, such as the XZ1 - 107, XZ2 117i and Enduro Series, can be retrofitted with an optional grass catcher of up to 380 liters. You can also benefit from warranty services, high level of operating comfort and an outstanding performance in terms of cutting, mulching and catching capacity.
Model Control Area output / hr. Cutting width Catch bag
XZ1 - 107 Steering wheel 10,000 m² 107 cm 200 liters
XZ2 117i Steering wheel 11,500 m² 117 cm 200 liters
XZ3 122 Steering wheel 11,000 m² 122 cm 300 liters
XZ5 L107 - Ultima steering wheel 10.000 m² 107 cm 230 liters
XZ5 L127 - Ultima steering wheel 11.500 m² 127 cm 230 liters
XZ5 L137 - Ultima steering wheel 12.500 m² 137 cm 230 liters
XZ6 S107 Steering wheel 10.000 m² 107 cm 230 liters
XZ6 S117 Steering wheel 10.500 m² 117 cm 230 liters
XZ6 S127 Steering wheel 11.500 m² 127 cm 230 liters
XZ7 L122 Ultima steering wheel 11.000 m² 122 cm 380 liters
XZ7 L152I Ultima steering wheel 15.000 m² 152 cm 380 liters
Advantages of a zero-turn mower with a grass catcher
Equipping a zero-turn mower with a grass catcher can be practical when you don't want the clippings to remain on the lawn. The grass clippings are collected directly by the catcher and can be conveniently disposed of.
This not only leads to less work, since an additional step is eliminated; it can also help prevent the risk of root rot or developing diseases under a thick layer of grass clippings, so you can grow healthy and lush lawn.
Another advantage of having a grass catcher in autumn is the ability to collect leaves. By having one, you can provide proper aeration of your lawn. Not only that, but disposal of the collected leaves is simple and convenient.
Alternatives to the zero turn mower
It is not always worthwhile to purchase a zero-turn. Especially in the hobby sector, the costs may be considerable and often not economical. Some model zero-turn mowers are also of limited use on slopes. An alternative here would be a lawn tractor with a small turning radius (sometimes only 17 cm). These are typically characterized by high maneuverability and may also minimize the need to retouch for lawn care.