6 Best Riding Lawn Mowers for Ditches of 2025

This beast of a machine dominates uneven terrain with unmatched stability and raw power, making it a top-tier choice for properties riddled with ditches, slopes, and rough patches. The 24 HP engine delivers relentless torque, effortlessly powering through thick grass and inclines, while the 54-inch ClearCut deck slices wide swaths with precision—few mowers match its cutting consistency on challenging ground. Most impressively, the electronic differential lock gives you surgical control when navigating ditches, preventing wheel spin and minimizing turf tear, a common headache for riders on uneven land.

In real-world testing across rolling hills and eroded ditch banks, this Husqvarna proved remarkably composed, thanks to its heavy-duty frame and alloy steel construction that resist flex under stress. The hydrostatic transmission offers buttery-smooth speed transitions, and the locking differential actively engages when traction is lost—crucial when one wheel dips into a ditch while the other stays on solid ground. However, its larger turning radius can make tight spaces tricky, and the sheer width demands open acreage to shine. It’s not the most agile, but stability trumps nimbleness when you’re working on unstable terrain.

Compared to the TS 248XD, this model trades a bit of maneuverability for greater deck width and engine output, making it better suited for large, open, uneven lawns rather than tighter plots with ditches. It outperforms budget tractors like the TS 146 in durability and cutting performance, but at a steeper cost. Ideal for serious homeowners with 2+ acres and uneven terrain, it’s a near-commercial workhorse built to last. It offers more power and deck strength than the TS 248XD, but with less specialized ditch-handling finesse.

When it comes to taming ditches and uneven ground, the Husqvarna TS 248XD isn’t just capable—it’s engineered for the challenge, making it the best riding lawn mower for ditches in this lineup. The 23HP Kawasaki engine delivers smooth, reliable power with excellent low-end torque, essential when climbing out of ditch edges or powering through muddy patches. Paired with the Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission and automatic differential lock, this tractor dynamically adjusts traction when one wheel slips—critical for maintaining control and minimizing turf damage in soft, uneven terrain.

On test runs across sloped ditches and rutted fields, the TS 248XD stayed remarkably planted, with the 48-inch fabricated deck maintaining even contact despite ground fluctuations. The dual-pedal drive system allows precise speed modulation—slow crawl when descending a ditch, quick acceleration when exiting—while LED headlights extend usability into early mornings or late evenings. It handles moderate inclines and soft soil with confidence, though extremely deep or loose ditches may still challenge any riding mower. The brush guard-style bumper adds peace of mind when brushing against ditch-side vegetation.

Against the larger Husqvarna B087ZRH97R, the TS 248XD sacrifices some deck width and raw power but gains superior traction intelligence and agility in ditch-heavy environments. It’s more responsive than the TS 146 and far more rugged than the EGO electric model on soft, unstable ground. Perfect for homeowners with 1–3 acres featuring drainage ditches, rolling terrain, or eroded areas, it strikes a rare balance between durability, control, and smart traction tech. It doesn’t cut quite as wide as the 54-inch model, but handles ditches with more finesse and grip.

The Husqvarna Z246 thrives on speed and precision, offering zero-turn agility that makes navigating around ditches and uneven terrain feel effortless—though it’s best when ditches aren’t too deep or soft. Powered by a 22HP Briggs EXI engine, it delivers strong, consistent performance across flat to moderately sloped lawns, and the Hydro-Gear EZT transmission ensures smooth, responsive handling at up to 6.5 mph forward. While not specifically built for ditch-heavy terrain, its tight turning radius allows operators to dance around problem areas rather than drive through them, a smart workaround for properties with shallow ditches.

In real-world use, the Z246 excels on well-maintained lawns with minor elevation changes, but caution is needed near deeper ditches—its lighter rear tires and low center of gravity help, but zero-turns are prone to tipping on extreme side slopes. The 46-inch stamped deck is durable for regular mowing but lacks the reinforced build of fabricated decks found on tractors like the TS 248XD. It’s fast and efficient on open ground, but less stable when one wheel dips unexpectedly. Best used where ditches are bordered by firm ground and not prone to collapse.

Compared to the TS 248XD, the Z246 trades traction and stability for speed and maneuverability—ideal if you’re dodging ditches rather than driving over them. It’s more agile than the EGO ZT4205S but lacks electric quietness and instant torque. For flat to rolling lawns with occasional ditches, it’s a great choice, but not the best for consistently rough or eroded terrain. It cuts faster than the TS 146, but with less ditch-ready durability than the Kawasaki-powered tractor.

The EGO ZT4205S redefines what an electric mower can do, delivering gas-like power without the noise or fumes, and its e-STEER technology makes navigating around ditches feel intuitive and car-like. With the equivalent of 22 horsepower and a top speed of 8 MPH, it zips across lawns with surprising authority, while the zero-turn radius allows pinpoint control when skirting ditch edges. The 42-inch deck may be smaller, but the 10 cutting height positions and 3-in-1 functionality let you adapt to terrain quickly—especially useful when transitioning from ditch banks to flat lawn.

In real-world testing, the battery runtime is impressive, handling up to 2.5 acres on a single charge, making it viable for medium to large properties. The LCD interface lets you fine-tune driving modes—Sport for speed, Control for precision near ditches—and the steering wheel design reduces fatigue during long mows. However, the lack of weight compared to gas mowers can reduce traction in soft or muddy ditch areas, and steep side slopes demand caution. It’s best on firm ground with shallow ditches, not deep, eroded terrain.

Against the Husqvarna TS 248XD, the EGO trades raw traction and engine durability for clean operation and smart features. It’s quieter and easier to maintain than any gas model, but less confident in wet, uneven ditches. Ideal for eco-conscious homeowners with well-drained, moderately uneven lawns, it’s a tech-forward alternative. It doesn’t match the TS 248XD’s grip in ditches, but outshines it in convenience and innovation.

The Husqvarna TS 146 is a no-frills workhorse that brings solid performance at a wallet-friendly price, making it a smart pick for smaller properties with occasional ditches or mild slopes. Its 22HP Briggs EXi engine delivers dependable power for regular mowing, and the 46-inch stamped deck covers ground efficiently, though it lacks the ruggedness of fabricated decks on tougher models. The K46 Tuff Torq transmission ensures smooth hydrostatic control, letting you creep slowly over ditch edges without jerking or stalling.

In testing, it handled flat to gently rolling lawns with ease, and the 3-gallon fuel tank supports longer mowing sessions—few budget mowers offer this range. However, on soft or deeply eroded ditches, the lack of differential lock means one wheel can spin freely, leading to turf damage or getting stuck. The 5 MPH forward speed feels sluggish compared to zero-turns, and the turning radius limits agility near tight ditch curves. It’s reliable for light-duty use, but not built for aggressive terrain.

Compared to the TS 248XD, it saves money but sacrifices critical traction tech—no locking differential, no Kawasaki engine. It’s a step up from basic push mowers but falls short in true ditch performance. Best for budget-minded users with 1–2 acres and minimal elevation changes, it’s a value play. It costs less than the TS 248XD, but with noticeably fewer ditch-ready features.