6 Best Lawn Mowers for Cutting Around Trees 2025

This gas-powered workhorse delivers serious cutting precision and exceptional maneuverability, making it a top contender for yards dotted with trees and obstacles. The 21-inch steel deck and rear-wheel drive system give you tight turning control, while the 6-position single-lever height adjustment lets you fine-tune your cut from 1.5″ to 3.9″ in seconds—perfect for adapting to uneven terrain near tree roots. Thanks to its 140cc Briggs & Stratton engine, it powers through thick grass without bogging down, solving the common frustration of stalling during tight turns around trunks.

In real-world testing, the mower excels on medium to large lawns with multiple trees, where its rear discharge mode allows for clean, unobstructed trimming along trunks without clogging. The 10-inch rear wheels provide excellent grip on slopes and soft soil, though the mower’s weight (around 75 lbs) can make pivot turns slightly sluggish in tight spots. It handles damp grass well, but the 1.4-bushel bag fills quickly in lush conditions, requiring frequent emptying. While gas models typically lack the instant torque of electric mowers, the B&S engine’s consistent power delivery ensures reliable performance across varied grass types.

Compared to the EGO LM2134SP-2, this PowerSmart model trades some agility and quiet operation for greater raw durability and lower long-term cost of ownership. It’s ideal for homeowners who prioritize reliability over silence and need a mower that can handle dense, overgrown grass near tree lines without battery anxiety. While not as nimble as smaller electric models, its combination of power, deck control, and rear-wheel steering makes it a standout for precision cutting around trees—offering more muscle and runtime than premium cordless options at a fraction of the price.

The EGO LM2134SP-2 redefines what a cordless mower can do, offering laser-sharp precision and effortless control—making it the best-in-class for navigating tight spaces around trees. Its Touch Drive steering puts full directional control in your fingertips, allowing inch-perfect turns within the shadow of a maple trunk. The Select Cut multi-blade system delivers a clean, even cut across all grass types, while the 21-inch deck and 8 height settings (1”–4”) let you tailor your mow to root-exposed terrain without scalping.

During real-world use, the dual 56V 6.0Ah batteries delivered up to 90 minutes of runtime, more than enough to tackle a 1/2-acre yard with multiple trees. The variable self-propel speed (0.9–3.1 MPH) lets you slow down for delicate trimming near bark, while the high-efficiency brushless motor provides instant torque when climbing over tree roots or damp patches. The side discharge chute is perfectly positioned for clean ejection away from trunks, and the LED headlights help with early morning mowing under dense canopies. However, the mower’s width can make it tricky in extremely tight clusters of saplings.

Against the PowerSmart gas model, the EGO trades fuel dependency for superior maneuverability and whisper-quiet operation, though it comes at a steep premium. It’s the ideal choice for eco-conscious homeowners with tree-rich yards who value precision, low maintenance, and zero emissions. While heavier than some cordless models, its smart drive system and extended battery life outperform even high-end gas mowers in tight, obstacle-dense environments—delivering a cleaner, quieter, and more controlled cut around trees than any other model in the lineup.

The MightyMow 40V 18-inch strikes an impressive balance between power, agility, and affordability, making it a smart pick for yards with scattered trees and shrubs. Its 18-inch deck is narrow enough to slip between trunks with ease, while the brushless motor (4200 RPM) delivers strong torque for cutting through thicker grass near shaded roots. The 6-position height adjustment (1”–3”) is tool-free and responsive, letting you adapt quickly to changes in terrain elevation around tree bases.

In testing, the mower handled moderate slopes and root-heaved ground with confidence, thanks to its low center of gravity and grippy tires. The 40L grass bag fills at a manageable rate, and the side discharge function is effective for clearing grass away from bark. With up to 40 minutes of runtime, it’s well-suited for small to medium yards—though dense, overgrown patches can drain the battery faster. While it lacks self-propel, the lightweight frame and three-position handle reduce strain during extended mowing near obstacles.

Compared to the EGO LM2134SP-2, this MightyMow model sacrifices smart drive tech and battery life but delivers 90% of the precision at less than half the cost. It’s perfect for homeowners who need a reliable, no-frills electric mower that can nimbly trim around trees without breaking the bank. While not as powerful as gas models, its quiet operation, low maintenance, and compact deck make it a versatile, budget-smart solution for precision mowing in tree-dense yards—offering better control and cleaner cuts than bulkier models.

Don’t let its size fool you—the MightyMow 13-inch is a nimble ninja when it comes to tight trimming around trees, flower beds, and tight corners. Weighing just 24 lbs and featuring a 13-inch cutting deck, it’s incredibly easy to pivot and guide within inches of tree trunks, solving the common issue of awkward maneuvering with bulkier mowers. The 5-position height adjustment (1”–2.6”) is smooth and intuitive, perfect for maintaining a consistent cut across shallow root zones.

In real use, this mower shines in small, intricate yards where precision beats power. It handled light to medium grass with ease, and the 35L bag is sufficient for quick touch-ups. The two 4.0Ah batteries provide about 20 minutes each, ideal for spot-mowing around trees rather than full-yard sessions. While it struggles in tall, wet grass, it’s perfect for maintenance cuts under canopies where larger mowers can’t reach. The foldable handle makes storage a breeze in tight sheds.

Against the Scotts reel mower, this model offers powered convenience without sacrificing agility, while beating it in cutting speed and consistency. It’s the best choice for homeowners with small, tree-heavy yards who need a lightweight, easy-to-store mower for frequent, precise trimming. Though not built for large lawns, its ultra-compact design and effortless handling make it unbeatable for cutting close to trees—delivering maximum control with minimal effort compared to wider, heavier models.

The Litheli 16-inch is a surprisingly capable budget performer, engineered for tight, tree-lined yards where maneuverability and ease of use matter most. Its 16-inch deck strikes a sweet spot—wide enough for efficiency, narrow enough to weave between saplings and mature trunks without clipping bark. The 6-height adjustment (0.98”–2.98”) is smooth and reliable, letting you adapt to uneven, root-affected terrain with confidence. Plus, the coreless motor design delivers strong startup torque and quiet operation, a rare find at this price point.

During testing, the mower covered up to 2,700 sq. ft. per charge, making it suitable for small to mid-sized yards with multiple trees. The folding handle and lightweight build make it easy to carry around obstacles or store in tight spaces—ideal for urban yards with limited access. The side discharge works well for clearing grass away from trunks, though mulching performance is average. Battery life dips in dense grass, but the dual 4.0Ah batteries ensure you can finish the job.

Compared to the MightyMow 13-inch, this Litheli model offers more cutting width and better runtime while still maintaining excellent agility. It’s the best value for homeowners who need a reliable, cordless mower for precision work around trees without overspending. While it lacks advanced features like self-propel or LED lights, its combination of power, portability, and universal battery compatibility—yes, the batteries can charge phones—makes it a practical, versatile tool that outperforms its price tag in real-world tree-trimming scenarios.

The Scotts 18-inch reel mower is a quiet, eco-friendly gem for small, flat yards with trees, offering scalp-free precision where gas and electric mowers often fail. Its 7-blade heat-treated steel reel delivers a scissor-like cut that’s gentle on grass near exposed roots, while the 18-inch width covers ground efficiently without the bulk of motorized models. The 10-inch dual-tracking wheels glide smoothly over uneven terrain, and the 1”–3” height adjustment ensures a clean cut even in shallow soil zones.

In real use, it excels on short, dry grass and is perfect for weekly touch-ups around trees, where its zero emissions and silent operation won’t disturb the neighborhood. It requires consistent pushing effort, especially in taller grass, but the cushioned handle reduces strain. It won’t handle thick, wet grass or slopes, but for light trimming under canopies and near trunks, it’s unmatched in cleanliness and control. No cords, no fumes, no noise—just pure, mechanical precision.

Compared to the MightyMow 13-inch, this Scotts model offers a wider cut and lower long-term cost, though it demands more physical effort. It’s ideal for eco-conscious users with small, tree-dense lawns who prioritize lawn health and sustainability. While not a full-yard solution, its sharp blades and smooth roll make it the best manual option for cutting close to trees—delivering a cleaner, quieter, and more environmentally friendly trim than any powered alternative.