Reel mowers cannot effectively mow turf that exceeds the center line of the reel. Mowing action is also disrupted on rough or irregular surfaces. Turfs with irregular surfaces should be smoothed through topdressing. Rotary mowers are an alternative to reel-type mowers and they have become quite popular because of their lower cost and ease of maintenance. These mowers can be dangerous, however, if not used properly.
Rotary mowers are more versatile than reel type mowers.
They have the ability to mow not only tall turf but also weeds and to mulch dry leaves. They are, however, not suitable for mowing turfs below 1 in. Flail and sickle-bar mowers. Two additional mower types are often used on low-maintenance turf. Flail mowers have a horizontally aligned shaft with vertical rotating blades.