Garden equipment like mowers, weed-whackers, tillers; blowers, etc. contribute to pollution. Not only do they guzzle gas, they account for over 5 percent of air pollution in the U.S. Owing to this, mower-manufacturing companies are now required to conform to new EPA regulations of hydrocarbon emission and carbon monoxide production.

Those with small lawns or gardens however, can opt for two other alternatives. You can either choose the old-fashioned, hand-powered reel mower, which, in fact seems to be in demand, going by the sales of the last few years. The cordless electric mower is the second option. They are much easier on your wallet and are rechargeable and are relatively maintenance-free.

However, it is imperative that you service your mower regularly so as to keep it in mint working condition at all times. It is by no means a cheap investment. For example, a lawn mower of 3.5 horsepower or so which hasn't been serviced and is in neglected condition emits the same amount of noxious pollutants to the air as a new car that's been driven a couple of hundred miles. Make it a habit to get your mower serviced regularly, preferably at the beginning or at the end of every mowing season. A mower tune-up is very much similar to your cars. Most of the components are similar like spark plug, hoses, filters and a quick look at all the parts. Always remember to empty your mower tank before you pack it up after mowing season. If not emptied, it could be detrimental to your mower.

According to EPA, mowers that are in poor condition spill more than 17 million gallons every year, which is more than the amount the Exxon Valdez dumped into the Gulf of Alaska.

Here is another great article about fertilizing your Lawn & Garden

If you like lawn care....These pages might also interest you:

All About Weeds, Common Lawn Problems, Controlling Lawn Diseases, Four Steps to a Great Lawn, How to Water Your Lawn, Inexpensive Lawn Fertilizer, Lawns in Shady Areas, Thatching, Turf Secrets, Types of Lawn Recreation, Care Free Lawns, Creating a Perfect Lawn, Earth Friendly Golf Courses, Feeding Your Lawn, Fertilizing Basics, Mowers and Pollution, Natural Ways to Fertilize, The Right Time To Fertilize, Types of Lawn Fertilizers