Managing green spaces: Get the right mower, save money

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Maintaining a lush, well-manicured compound can be a source of pride and serenity. However, for developers managing large properties, lawn maintenance often feels like a recurring expense rather than a joy.

The good news is that with the right mower and a strategic approach, you can significantly cut down your grass maintenance costs. Michael Gitta, a compound designer, and Abdul Kyeyune, a professional mower operator, share practical insights to help property owners make informed decisions about managing their green spaces.

The hidden cost of constant maintenance

“For developers with large compounds, hiring someone to trim the grass every few weeks can quickly become a financial burden,” says Gitta, who has spent over a decade designing and maintaining beautiful landscapes. “You are essentially paying for labour, equipment rentals, and fuel, month after month.” These costs add up fast, especially during the rainy season when grass grows more rapidly.

Maintaining a lush, well-manicured compound can be a source of pride and serenity.

Kyeyune, who runs a mowing business, notes that many property owners rely on frequent hires simply because they have not invested in the right equipment. “Some people spend over sh250,000 every month on grass-cutting. But with the right mower, they could slash that cost by half, or even more,” he explains.

Choosing the right mower

For owners of large properties, experts recommend investing in a high-quality mower suited to the size and terrain of the compound. Though it may seem like a major purchase, they emphasise that it is a long-term investment that pays off. “There are different types of mowers: manual, electric, and fuel-powered,” Gitta explains. “For large compounds, I usually recommend fuel-powered models because they more efficient and do not rely on electricity, which can be unreliable in some areas,” he says.

Kyeyune adds that terrain plays a big role in mower selection. “If your property has slopes or uneven ground, a self-propelled mower is ideal. It makes the job much faster and easier,” he says.

“For large, flat areas, a ride-on mower might be more expensive initially, but it saves a lot of time and effort in the long run,” he says. One major advantage of owning your own mower is full control over usage and scheduling, which can lead to major fuel and labour savings. “Modern fuel-powered mowers are very efficient. For a medium-sized compound, you might only need two to three litres of fuel per cut. Compare that to hiring someone who charges for both labour and fuel,” Kyeyune explains.

Maintenance matters

Gitta stresses the importance of regular maintenance to keep your mower running efficiently.

Maintaining a lush, well-manicured compound can be a source of pride and serenity.

“Change the oil, clean the air filters, and sharpen the blades regularly. A well-maintained mower uses less fuel and lasts much longer,” he advises.

More than just cost savings

Beyond the financial benefits, owning a mower gives developers the flexibility to maintain their property on their own schedule. “You are not dependent on someone else’s availability,” says Gitta. “You can mow on weekends or whenever the grass needs trimming.” Kyeyune also points out that regular self-maintenance can improve your property’s appearance and value. “When you are in control, you can ensure the grass is always cut to the perfect height, giving the property a consistent, professional look,” he says.

Both Gitta and Kyeyune agree that while purchasing a mower may feel like a significant upfront cost, the long-term savings and convenience make it a smart choice for anyone managing a large compound. “Think of it as an investment in your property. A well-maintained compound not only saves money, but also adds to your property's value and appeal,” Gitta says.