Supporting the Mower Fleet With Additional Attachments and Accessoriestest

By Mike Fitzpatrick

November 2014

Depending on location, terrain and weather patterns, managers might need to augment a mower fleet with additional attachments and accessories in order to increase efficiency. For example, for facilities located in regions where deep snow is likely, managers might want to consider skid-steer attachments. In regions that typically have lighter snowfall, a snow blower or plow might be the most appropriate for clearing paved areas.

Landscape size is also an important factor in determining equipment needs. Larger properties might require a truck or a trailer for hauling debris, equipment and maintenance crews. Smaller sites, on the other hand, might only need a few pieces of essential handheld equipment such as rakes and trimmers. Regardless of landscape size, handheld equipment is essential for increasing the efficiency of work crews. While a few employees are mowing, other employees can be trimming trees or bushes.

Before buying any extra accessories or equipment, managers need to identify a tangible, long-term need. With many pieces of equipment, managers are better off renting as needed rather than buying equipment that staff will use only infrequently. When equipment goes unused for long periods of time, it can develop maintenance problems, which inevitably means expensive repairs.

Mike Fitzpatrick is vice president of U.S. Lawns which has about 260 franchise locations nationwide. He has more than 30 years of experience in the green industry.