Types of Mowers for Mulching

• Although manufacturers offer specially designed mulching mowers, both standard push mowers and riding mowers are generally suitable for mulching. While specialized mulching mowers are excellent at mulching and distributing grass clippings, some models might not perform alternative tasks, such as cutting tall weeds or bagging clippings. While mulching mowers and standard push mowers are available in both electric and gas-powered models, riding mowers are usually only available as gas-powered units.
  
  

Mulching Chute

• Mulching chutes attach to push mowers and riding mowers. Usually metal or plastic, chutes typically attach to an opening on the side of the mower's body. When using a mulching chute with a standard push mower or riding mower, the mower's operator must seal the rear, bag-collection opening. With the bag-collection opening sealed, grass clippings circulate to the side opening, stream through the chute and onto the freshly cut lawn. Note that the cutting pattern affects the distribution of clippings; an erratic cutting pattern creates thick layers of clipping in some areas and thin layers in others.
  
  

Mulching Plugs, Plates and Covers

• Mulching plugs, plates and covers simply close a mower's openings and prevent the mower from discharging grass clippings. Trapped beneath a mower's body, clippings are repeatedly sliced until they form a fine mulch. As the mower moves across a lawn, it leaves a trail of the finely ground mulch. Many standard push mowers and riding mowers accept plugs, plates or covers for mulching. However, closing off discharge openings damages some mowers; you should check your mower manufacturer's guidelines before using this mulching method.
  
  

Mulching Blade

• Available for most standard push mowers and riding mowers, mulching blades cut grass quickly into fine pieces. Common mulching blade designs include toothed or serrated edges or dual blades. Dual-blade designs consist of a set of two blades, stacked one on top of the other. Both blades mount to the same mower. After the lower blade shears grass, the clippings rise to the upper blade for a second cutting.