The smaller tractors used in home gardening projects, also known as lawn tractors, are very handy to have around if your plot is up to 2 acres. They come with a variety of tools that are designed to reduce your workload and increase the efficiency of your labor, while maintaining your garden to a perfect standard. They usually have between 7 and 10 horsepower, and are designed with the smaller plots in mind with a zero-turning-radius, or ZTR. Before choosing the model that is right for your needs, you need to consider a number of issues such as prices and whether you are able to operate a tractor safely.
A Flexible Tool
Whether you need a lawn tractor to dig for a fence, mow, till or roll the lawn they are very adaptable tools that can handle a multitude of jobs, through power take off spindle. Lawn tractors really are a godsend for the gardener.
How To Buy A Tractor
The process is similar to that of buying a car. The basic price corresponds to the basic trim, and it goes up as you add accessories. It is really important that you think all your options through before buying accessories that you may be able to add if needed at a later date. Like with a car you should take the tractor for a spin at the dealership, find out how easy and time consuming attaching accessories may be, and if the tractor is suitable for you to get in and out without a problem.
Purchase Price
The basic cost without accessories can vary widely, from the cheapest Bolen 762F76 that retails for about $900 through to $6000. Mid range models such as the Poulan Pro PK185H42ST go for about $1400 and expect to pay around £3300 for a John Deere Spin-Steer SST-16. These prices are for the basic trim only: expect to pay an additional $110 for a canopy, around $300 for a grass collection bag and carts can go from $110 to $220 depending on size. This can make a fully kitted out tractor expensive and you may consider a more basic lawn mowing option if your plot is under an acre and you are not planning to do anything but mowing with it.
Safe Operation
The center of gravity on a lawn tractor is low, which reduces the risk of accidents and rolling. This said you need to take some extra care to operate tractors safely. It is not advisable to drive at speed, even the more so going uphill, as there is a risk of injury if you hit even a small stone that can throw you out of track. Also take precautions when getting in and out: the engine should always be switched off, and all attachments should ideally be resting firmly on the ground.
