A clean, freshly cut lawn is every yard owner's dream. But if your lawn mower with grass collector is leaving behind clumps of clippings, something’s not quite right. Let’s break down the top reasons why this happens and how you can get your mower collecting like a pro again.
Blocked or Full Grass Catcher
When the mower grass catcher is clogged or full, airflow through the chute is disrupted, and clippings start spilling out onto your lawn. Moist or long grass is usually to blame, sticking to the sides of the catcher or forming a mat that blocks the passage.
How to Fix It
- Empty the catcher more often during use, especially in damp conditions.
- Clean out the chute after every mow.
- Check for stuck debris in the grass chute and remove it manually.
- Upgrade to a better catcher, like a John Deere grass catcher, for improved airflow and performance.
Dull or Damaged Blades
Blades that are dull or chipped don’t cut cleanly they tear the grass. Torn grass doesn’t travel well through the chute, leading to blockages and poor pickup.
How to Fix It
- Sharpen your mower blades every 20-25 hours of use.
- Replace severely worn or damaged blades.
- Always disconnect the spark plug before handling blades.
Wet or Overgrown Grass
Cutting wet grass is a recipe for a mess. It clumps together, clogs the grass catcher, and overloads your mower. Tall grass also overwhelms the system, making it hard for clippings to get collected efficiently.
How to Fix It
- Mow when the grass is dry.
- Mow more frequently to avoid overgrowth.
- If the grass is long, start with a higher cut and lower it gradually.
Wrong Cutting Height Setting
A cutting height that’s too low can cause the mower to scalp the lawn and push grass down rather than lift it up for collection. It also restricts airflow, reducing pickup performance.
How to Fix It
- Raise the deck to a suitable height for the season and grass type.
- Avoid the lowest setting unless absolutely necessary.
Poor Mower Design or Inferior Catcher
Not all mowers are made equal. Some lack the airflow power or chute design to effectively carry clippings to the catcher. If you're using a generic mower bag or an old collector, it might not be doing the job.
How to Fix It
- Invest in a purpose-built lawn mower with grass collector from a trusted brand.
- Catch Pro Australia offers a range of catcher bundles that improve suction and reduce clumping.
- Consider switching to a John Deere grass catcher if you're using a compatible model.
Worn or Missing Baffles
Baffles help create the airflow needed to lift and push clippings into the catcher. If they're damaged or missing, your mower's collection system won't work well.
How to Fix It
- Inspect under the deck for loose, missing, or broken baffles.
- Replace any parts that look damaged or corroded.
Chute Misalignment
If the chute between the mower and the catcher are even slightly misaligned, clippings can leak or get stuck instead of flowing cleanly into the catcher.
How to Fix It
- Check the attachment points for any gaps or loose fittings.
- Make sure the mower grass catcher is firmly in place and secured.
- Replace worn-out brackets or seals that may be allowing air leaks.
Bag Material and Ventilation
Grass catchers need to breathe. If the catcher bag is too tightly woven, full of dirt, or damaged, it won't allow air to pass through properly and airflow is what draws the clippings in.
How to Fix It
- Wash or replace fabric catcher bags if they're clogged with fine debris.
- Use mesh-style bags or plastic models with air vents to improve collection.
Improper Mowing Speed
Going too fast can cause your mower to skip or miss patches, especially in thick or wet grass. Your mower doesn't have time to cut and collect properly at high speeds.
How to Fix It
- Slow down your pace and let the mower do its job.
- Make overlapping passes if needed to ensure full pickup.
Grass Type and Lawn Conditions
Some grasses are thicker and more fibrous than others. Buffalo grass, for example, is harder to collect cleanly compared to finer varieties. Uneven lawns with bumps or dips can also affect how well the blades lift and cut the grass.
How to Fix It
- Keep your lawn level and healthy with regular care.
- Choose a lawn mower with grass collector built for Aussie conditions - Catch Pro’s bundles offer options tailored to local grass types.
Poor Deck Design or Dirty Underside
A dirty or poorly designed mower deck disrupts airflow, which is essential for pulling clippings into the mower grass catcher. Build-up under the deck turns into mulch that clogs the system.
How to Fix It
- Clean under the deck after each use with a hose or brush.
- Consider using a deck spray to reduce buildup during mowing.
- Upgrade to a better deck design with sharper airflow curves and cleaner discharge.
Still Not Working? Upgrade Your Catcher System
If you’ve ticked off all the above and your mower still isn’t collecting properly, it might be time for an upgrade. That’s where Catch Pro Australia comes in. Their catcher bundles including the popular John Deere grass catcher models are built for tough lawns and Aussie mowing conditions.
They’re designed to improve collection on commercial and residential mowers. Whether you’re after a bolt-on catcher, an improved chute, or a heavy-duty bracket, Catch Pro’s kits are built to help your mower perform at its best.
Final Tip: Maintenance Is Everything
Just like a car, your mower needs regular care. Clean the deck, sharpen the blades, check the catcher, and keep moving parts in top condition. A few minutes of care each week can mean the difference between a pristine lawn and a messy patchwork.
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