Does a robotic lawn mower really cut it?

Advantages of Robotic Lawn Mowers

1. Convenience:
   • Automatic Operation: Once set up, they operate autonomously, reducing the need for manual mowing.
   • Scheduling: Many models allow you to set mowing schedules, so your lawn is always well-maintained without any intervention.
2. Consistent Lawn Care:
   • Frequent Mowing: Regular, consistent mowing helps keep the grass healthier by cutting a small amount each time.
   • Even Cut: They can provide a more uniform cut compared to manual mowing, especially on flat surfaces.
3. Eco-Friendly:
   • Electric Power: Most robotic mowers are electric, which is quieter and more environmentally friendly than gas-powered mowers.
4. Safety Features:
   • Obstacle Detection: They come with sensors to avoid obstacles and prevent accidents.
   • Automatic Shutdown: Many models stop the blades when lifted or tilted to prevent injury.
5. Time-Saving:
   • Free Up Time: Allows homeowners to spend their time on other activities instead of mowing the lawn.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

1. Initial Cost:
   • High Upfront Investment: Robotic mowers can be quite expensive initially, ranging from several hundred to a few thousand dollars.
2. Setup and Installation:
   • Boundary Wires: Most models require the installation of boundary wires to define the mowing area, which can be time-consuming.
   • Learning Curve: Initial setup and programming may require some effort and understanding.
3. Performance on Different Terrains:
   • Uneven Terrain: While they work well on flat and gently sloping lawns, they may struggle with very uneven or steep terrain.
   • Thick or Tall Grass: May have difficulty with very thick or tall grass and might require supplemental manual mowing occasionally.
4. Maintenance:
   • Regular Cleaning: Blades and sensors need to be cleaned regularly to maintain performance.
   • Blade Replacement: Blades need to be replaced periodically to ensure a clean cut.
5. Battery Life:
   • Recharge Time: They need to recharge periodically, which can take several hours depending on the model.
   • Coverage Area: Battery life limits the size of the lawn that can be mowed in one session, so large lawns may require multiple recharges.

Can you use a robot mower on wet grass?

Potential Issues with Mowing Wet Grass

1. Slippery Conditions:
   • Traction: Wet grass can make the mower lose traction, leading to uneven cutting or the mower getting stuck.
   • Slipping: The mower may slip on slopes or uneven terrain, potentially causing it to miss patches of grass.
2. Clumping:
   • Grass Clippings: Wet grass tends to clump together, which can clog the mower’s cutting deck and affect its performance.
   • Mess: Clumped grass can leave a mess on your lawn, making it look untidy and potentially leading to fungal growth.
3. Blade Efficiency:
   • Cut Quality: Wet grass is tougher to cut cleanly, and blades can become dull more quickly.
   • Strain on Motor: Cutting wet grass can put additional strain on the mower’s motor and battery, reducing its efficiency and lifespan.
4. Maintenance:
   • Cleaning: Wet grass sticks to the mower’s underside and blades, requiring more frequent and thorough cleaning.
   • Corrosion: Prolonged exposure to moisture can increase the risk of corrosion on metal parts.
5. Safety:
   • Electrical Components: Although most robotic mowers are designed to be weather-resistant, prolonged exposure to wet conditions might affect their electrical components over time.

Situations Where It Might Be Acceptable

1. Dew or Light Moisture:
   • Morning Dew: Mowing grass with light dew might be acceptable, especially if the mower has good traction and you clean it afterward.
2. Rain Sensors:
   • Built-In Sensors: Some robotic mowers come with rain sensors that automatically return the mower to its charging station when it starts to rain, preventing operation in overly wet conditions.
3. Short Grass:
   • Maintenance Cuts: If the grass is kept short and the ground is not saturated, occasional mowing in slightly wet conditions might not pose significant problems.

Best Practices

1. Wait for Dry Conditions: It’s best to wait until the grass is dry to mow. This ensures optimal performance and reduces maintenance.
2. Check Weather Forecasts: Plan your mowing schedule around the weather forecast to avoid wet conditions.
3. Regular Maintenance: Clean the mower regularly and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage, especially after mowing damp grass.
4. Use Sharp Blades: Ensure the blades are sharp to handle any cutting conditions more efficiently.