Rasenmäher

Rasenmäher is the German term for a lawn mower, a machine used to cut grass on lawns, parks, and other grassy areas. Modern models are designed to reduce manual labor and provide an even cut, contributing to lawn health and appearance. Mowers come in a range of sizes and power sources, from small hand-pushed units to large ride-on machines and autonomous robots.

The history of lawn mowing began in the early 19th century. The first practical lawn mower was invented by Edwin Budding in England in 1830, initially intended for trimming turf on sports grounds and gardens. Over time, improvements led to the development of reel or cylinder mowers with a scissor-like cutting action, followed by rotary blade mowers driven by engines or motors. In the late 20th century, electric and gasoline-powered models became common, and in recent years robotic mowers have gained popularity for autonomous maintenance of lawns.

Rasenmäher today can be categorized by cutting mechanism and power source. Cutting mechanisms include reel (cylinder) mowers, which provide a fine, clean cut suitable for high-quality lawns, and rotary mowers, which use a single or multiple blades to chop grass. Power sources range from manual push to electric (corded or cordless), gasoline-powered, and ride-on options for large areas. Common features include adjustable cutting height, bagging or mulching capabilities, and self-propulsion in some models.

Maintenance and safety are essential. Blades should be kept sharp, and decks cleaned to prevent grass buildup. Gasoline engines require regular oil changes and air filter maintenance, while electric models need battery care and cord management. Safety practices include keeping hands away from the blade area, using protective footwear, and storing machines securely when not in use.

Rasenmäher are widely used in residential landscaping and professional grounds maintenance, balancing efficiency, environmental impact, and lawn quality.