St. Augustine grass is known for its lush, thick growth and broad blades, which means it needs a lawn mower that can handle dense turf without tearing or shredding the delicate grass. Choosing the right mower isn’t just about power—it’s about precision, blade sharpness, and cutting action. After testing and researching dozens of models, we’ve narrowed down the best lawn mower for St. Augustine grass to four standout options that deliver clean cuts, reliable performance, and long-term durability. Whether you prefer a quiet reel mower or a versatile 3-in-1 cordless model, there’s something here for every homeowner.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 4 Best Lawn Mower For St Augustine Grass Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower for Specialty Grass with Included Grass Catcher
This manual reel mower is a quiet, eco-friendly powerhouse designed specifically for dense, thick grass types like St. Augustine. With seven precision-ground blades and a scissor-like cutting action, it delivers a clean, healthy cut without tearing the broad blades of your turf.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 7-blade reel system ideal for specialty grasses like St. Augustine, Bermuda, and Zoysia
✓ 16-inch cutting width with durable 10-inch wheels for smooth maneuverability
✓ Includes a grass catcher for tidy cleanup
✓ No fuel, no emissions, and whisper-quiet operation
✓ Adjustable cutting height for customized lawn care
Why We Recommend It
The American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC excels at giving St. Augustine grass the gentle, precise cut it needs to stay thick and vibrant. Its scissor-cutting action prevents fraying and promotes faster recovery, making it perfect for homeowners who prioritize lawn health over speed.
Best For
Eco-conscious homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who want a clean, quiet cut without the hassle of gas or cords.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Zero emissions and extremely quiet
- Clean, scissor-like cut protects grass health
- Low maintenance with no engine or battery to worry about
- Includes grass catcher for convenience
Cons:
- Requires physical effort to push
- Not ideal for very large or overgrown lawns
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was skeptical about a push reel mower, but this one handles my St. Augustine lawn like a champ. It cuts cleanly and doesn’t tear the grass like my old gas mower did. Plus, it’s so quiet I can mow early in the morning without waking the neighbors.” – James R.
Customer Review: “Perfect for my small backyard. The grass catcher works great, and the build quality feels solid. Just remember—it’s not self-propelled, so be ready to put in a little effort.” – Maria T.
2. LawnMaster LMRM1602 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower for Effortless Yard Maintenance
The LawnMaster LMRM1602 combines simplicity with performance, offering a smooth push-reel experience tailored for homeowners who want a healthier lawn without the noise and fumes of gas mowers. Its scissor-like cut is gentle on St. Augustine grass while delivering professional-looking results.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Scissor-like cutting action prevents grass tearing
✓ 4-position height adjustment (1″ to 2″) for precise control
✓ 16-inch cutting width with 10-inch front wheels for easy navigation
✓ Lightweight and compact design for storage and maneuvering
✓ No fuel, oil, or charging required
Why We Recommend It
This mower is ideal for maintaining St. Augustine grass at its optimal height without causing stress or damage. The adjustable cutting height lets you adapt to seasonal growth, and the quiet operation makes it perfect for early morning or late evening mowing.
Best For
Homeowners with small to mid-sized yards who want a reliable, low-maintenance mower that promotes lawn health.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Clean, healthy cut that reduces lawn stress
- Easy height adjustment with 4 settings
- Quiet and environmentally friendly
- Affordable and durable construction
Cons:
- Manual operation requires physical effort
- No grass catcher included (sold separately)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve tried electric and gas mowers, but this reel mower gives the cleanest cut on my St. Augustine lawn. It’s lightweight and easy to push, even on slightly uneven ground.” – David L.
Customer Review: “Great value for the price. It doesn’t come with a bag, but I don’t mind raking—it’s worth it for how well it cuts and how quiet it is.” – Susan K.
3. BLACK+DECKER MTC220 Cordless 3-in-1 Lawn Mower, Edger, and Weed Eater with (2) Batteries
This versatile 3-in-1 tool transforms from a compact lawn mower to an edger and weed eater, making it perfect for small yards with St. Augustine grass. With two batteries included, you get extended runtime and the flexibility to tackle tight spaces, slopes, and edges with ease.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Convertible design: mower, edger, and trimmer in one
✓ Two 20V MAX lithium-ion batteries for continuous use
✓ Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) eliminates line adjustments
✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver in tight areas
✓ Ideal for slopes, small yards, and hard-to-reach spots
Why We Recommend It
The MTC220 is a budget-friendly, multi-functional solution for homeowners who need more than just a mower. Its cordless design gives you freedom of movement, and the included batteries ensure you won’t run out of power mid-job—perfect for maintaining a neat St. Augustine lawn without breaking the bank.
Best For
Homeowners with small yards, irregular shapes, or landscaping features who want one tool to handle mowing, edging, and trimming.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Three tools in one saves money and storage space
- Cordless convenience with long-lasting batteries
- Great for edges, slopes, and tight corners
- Lightweight and easy to store
Cons:
- Not suitable for large lawns due to battery limits
- Cutting width is narrow (12 inches)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love how this one tool does everything! My St. Augustine lawn stays neat, and I can edge along the driveway without switching tools. The batteries last long enough for my 0.2-acre yard.” – Lisa M.
Customer Review: “Perfect for small spaces. It’s lightweight and easy to use, even for my teenage daughter. Just don’t expect it to replace a full-size mower for big lawns.” – Robert P.
4. BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM Corded 12-Inch 6.5 Amp 3-in-1 Mower, Edger, and Weed Eater
A powerful corded option for those who never want to worry about battery life, the BESTA512CM delivers consistent performance for small St. Augustine lawns. Its 6.5-amp motor and 3-in-1 functionality make it a reliable workhorse for mowing, edging, and trimming.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 6.5-amp motor with POWERDRIVE Transmission for tough grass
✓ Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) for uninterrupted trimming
✓ Converts easily between mower, edger, and weed eater
✓ 12-inch cutting width ideal for small yards
✓ No batteries or fuel—just plug in and go
Why We Recommend It
This mower is perfect for homeowners who want corded reliability without sacrificing versatility. It handles thick St. Augustine grass with ease and keeps edges sharp, all without the maintenance of gas engines or the limits of battery life.
Best For
Small yard owners who want a durable, no-fuss mower with unlimited runtime and multi-function capability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Continuous power with no charging or refueling
- Strong motor handles thick grass well
- Three tools in one reduce clutter and cost
- Affordable and built to last
Cons:
- Requires an outdoor extension cord
- Not ideal for large properties due to cord limitations
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve had this for two years and it still runs like new. The cord is a minor hassle, but I just use a 100-foot extension and it’s fine. Cuts my St. Augustine lawn cleanly every time.” – Mark T.
Customer Review: “Great for small yards and tight spaces. I use it mostly as a trimmer, but the mower function works well too. Just remember to keep the cord out of the way!” – Angela S.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Lawn Mower For St Augustine Grass
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best lawn mower for St. Augustine grass, we focus on cutting action, blade type, grass thickness tolerance, and ease of use. St. Augustine grass has wide, soft blades that tear easily under rotary mowers, so we prioritize reel mowers or low-RPM electric models with sharp blades. We also consider cutting height adjustability, maneuverability, and whether the mower supports healthy regrowth. For more tips on mowing thick grass, check out our guide on the best mulching lawn mower for thick grass.
Budget Planning
You can find excellent mowers for St. Augustine grass across all price ranges. Manual reel mowers like the American Lawn Mower start under $150 and offer long-term savings with no fuel or electricity costs. Corded and cordless electric models range from $100 to $250, while gas-powered options go higher but are less ideal for this grass type. For budget-friendly versatility, consider our top pick for the best cordless electric lawn mower. Always factor in long-term maintenance, battery life (for cordless), and replacement parts.
Final Thoughts
St. Augustine grass thrives when mowed with care—sharp blades, proper height, and gentle handling are key. Whether you choose a quiet reel mower or a flexible 3-in-1 electric model, the right tool will keep your lawn lush and healthy. For more specialized advice, explore our reviews on the best reel lawn mower for small yards or the best mower for Zoysia grass, which shares similar needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a regular rotary mower on St. Augustine grass?
A: While possible, rotary mowers often tear or shred St. Augustine grass due to its broad, soft blades. Reel mowers or sharp, slow-turning electric mowers are better for a clean, healthy cut.
Q: How often should I mow St. Augustine grass?
A: During peak growing season (spring and summer), mow every 7–10 days. Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time to avoid stress.
Q: Is a reel mower better than a gas mower for St. Augustine?
A: Yes—reel mowers provide a scissor-like cut that’s gentler on St. Augustine grass, reducing fraying and promoting faster recovery compared to the chopping action of gas mowers.
Q: Do I need a bagger for St. Augustine grass?
A: Not always. If you mow regularly and at the right height, grass clippings decompose quickly and act as natural fertilizer. However, a bagger helps keep the lawn tidy, especially after rainy periods when growth is rapid.
Ready to give your St. Augustine lawn the care it deserves? Click any “Check Price” button above to find the perfect mower for your yard. With the right tool, you’ll enjoy a greener, healthier lawn all season long!
