Gang mowers are jolly expensive

[Hereward]

I moved to a new house in December and the grass is just starting to wake up.

The previous owner left behind an old ride-on mower but it will take forever to do the 4 acres of paddock and I work long hours.

I was thinking of buying a trailed gang mower that I could tow behind my 4x4 but have been shocked by the cost of used units on Ebay.

Will I simply have to stump up £2k or does anyone know any other outlets for buying used equipment? Surely schools/golf clubs sell these things off from time to time? Cheers.

[Simpo Two]

Sheep?

[smifffymoto]

I was told by a coucil bod that they lease most of their gear so why not try Ransomes or other professional mower makers

[robinhood21]

Simpo Two said:

Sheep?

Good answer if you're not going to do anything else with the land. Could keep up to forty sheep on four acres. Or, one could let the grass grow and harvest as hay. Am sure a local farmer would harvest the hay and pay one for the privilege.

[dilbert]

robinhood21 said:

Simpo Two said:

Sheep?

Good answer if you're not going to do anything else with the land. Could keep up to forty sheep on four acres. Or, one could let the grass grow and harvest as hay. Am sure a local farmer would harvest the hay and pay one for the privilege.

This is the answer.

The old's had a field, and the local farmer used to pop in (by agreement) and cut the grass for hay. I understand the cows loved it.

[Hereward]

robinhood21 said:

...Or, one could let the grass grow and harvest as hay. Am sure a local farmer would harvest the hay and pay one for the privilege.

hmm, interesting, thanks. Does this require a specific species of grass, though?

[robinhood21]

I don't think so. Mind, am not an expert in this field. Best have a chat with a local farmer.

ETA: Link to all about hay.

Edited by robinhood21 on Friday 5th March 15:11