Mulching Setup for ZTR - pros and cons

fabsroman · Apr 24, 2012

I am debating the purchase of a mulching setup for my 54" Z445. Hoping that it will cut down on the hayfield look that I have right now and actually help the lawn in the long run by providing nutrients. However, this is only my second season having to cut my lawn (i.e., lived in a townhouse prior to this), and am wondering if the money is worth it.

So, looking to you experienced guys regarding the pros and cons of using a mulching system on a ZTR. Should I even be thinking about this?

jenkinsph · Apr 25, 2012

Don't know about your Z turn but I have a mulch plug and mulching blades for my GT that work pretty well. If I used the mower on my own lawn all the time instead of my customers I think it would be a good way to go.

I generally use high lift blades which throw larger clippings that are evident for a day or two after mowing. If you go the with the mulching plug and blades you may have to move a little slower to get good results and cut more often.

In the summer when we have hot weather I mow my lawn to a 4" height and cut when it is about 6"s average height. This helps the grass deal with the heat better (Fescue) and has less of a tendency to show the clippings.

bud4410 · Apr 25, 2012

I have a 3520 tractor 72mmm and a 997 ztrac 72mmm both with mulching kits on the decks. both work great. if i let the grass get to long between cuttings i get some clumps with the 3520 but no windrows. with the 997 ztrac it is perfect. no windrows, no clumps, no cut grass of any kind laying around. as if it has all been vacuumed up. must be the higher blade speed of the ztrac. i guess it just pulverizes it. i would highly recommend the mulching kit. plus without the deflector on the right side you can pass close to things on either side and not blow clippings everywhere. hope this helps......bud