Best riding lawn mower with a bagger 2023. Zero turn grass catcher
Can You Put a Bagger on a Zero Turn Mower? ( Should You?)
Walk behinds and tractor lawn mowers usually have a collection system or bagger available as a standard option, but what about zero turn mowers? It’s not all that often that you see a zero turn mower collecting grass clippings. But what if you have a need to collect the clippings and get them off your lawn? Well, a bagger is what you will be looking for or something similar. Let’s take a closer look at the options that are available to you and what could be the solution for your zero turn.
So…Can You Put a Bagger on a Zero Turn Mower?
Yes, but it all depends on the particular mower in question and the bagger itself. Not just any bagger will fit onto any zero turn mower.
First, you need to make sure that your mower deck has a side chute that allows a bagger to be attached. Additionally, you need to check if the deck has the correct pulley system to allow for a powered bagger. Alternatively, you’ll need an unpowered bagging system.
Finally, you’ll need to make sure that the mower has the correct mounting brackets on the rear to mount the bags. Without mounting brackets, you’ll need to make sure to include a mounting kit when purchasing a collection system.
If your zero turn has these allowances, then adding a bagger is a straightforward process. If your mower doesn’t have provisions for a bagger, then you’ll need to check with your manufacturer if they have a bagger adaption kit available.
If you happen to be one of those unlucky ones with a mower that can’t mount a bagger, then don’t worry because there are some towable options for you.
Baggers for Zero Turn Mowers: Different Types
As you can already tell, bagging systems are not that simple, and it requires some planning to get the correct one for your zero turn. So let’s take a look at the different options you’ll need to consider.
Powered Baggers
Powered baggers use a blower to help push the clippings up through the bagging system and into the bag. The blower is mounted to the side chute and then connected to the mower deck using a belt and pulley system. These are by far the most powerful systems for collecting grass clippings from the mower deck.
Non-Powered Bagger
This type of bagger mounts the same way as a powered bagger, but they do not connect to the pulley systems. Instead, they rely on the airflow generated by the blades as they spin to carry the clippings to the bag.
Multi Bags
Different collection systems come with options that vary in the number of bags included. Two and three-bag systems are readily available to fit most zero turn mowers. The two factors to consider are the bags’ overall capacity and then the individual weight of each bag when full. You may find that a bag from a double bag system, when full, is too heavy for you to handle, so a triple bag setup could work better.
Alternative Baggers for Zero Turn Mowers: 3 Options
If you are looking for an alternative to the standard bagger for your zero turn, then there are several options available. Let’s take a look at what might work for you.
Dragging Bags
If you are looking for something bigger, drag bags are available. These large bags replace the bags included with your bagging system. Dragging bags can double or triple the volume that your original bags could hold. But they do drag, so reversing is out of the question.
Additionally, they require a zero turn with a lot of power. They are a good option if you use your zero turn bagging system to collect leaves in the fall. You just need to make sure you have enough room to maneuver your mower without reversing.
Grass Catcher
This design mounts to the deck the same way as a standard bagging system, but they don’t require any bags, additional mounting brackets, blower, or grass chutes. They’re a small cage that attaches directly to the deck to collect a small volume of grass. Grass catchers are a great solution if you have a smaller yard, and they are certainly much cheaper than the conventional versions.
Towable Collection Systems
You can tow a collection system if your zero turn has a hitch and power. They’re basically a trailer that is towed and picks up the grass left by the mower. They can either be powered by an engine or by power generated by the turning of their wheels. These also double great as leaf collectors.
Should You Put a Bagger on a Zero Turn Mower?
So, before you head out and purchase a bagging system, you should consider the reasons why you should or shouldn’t do so. Baggers can make life easier in several circumstances and improve your lawn, but at the same time, they can cause you some problems.
So, let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of baggers and help you figure out if it’s the best decision for you.
Why You Should Put a Bagger on a Zero Turn
The main reason for a bagger is to remove grass clippings so the lawn can breathe and receive the sunlight it needs. Any of you guys with grass like Bermuda or Bahia will know that clumping is a real problem, even when the lawn is bone dry. For those with grass like St. Augustine or Floratam, you know how fast it can grow in the summer and how much grass is left on the top of the lawn blocking the sunlight.
Another major reason to use a bagger is to reduce pests and disease. Clippings on the surface of the lawn are a great habitat for all sorts of pests. Additionally, if you have any disease on your lawn, then collecting the clippings will help slow the spread.
When You Should Not Put a Bagger on a Zero Turn
Clippings provide a natural source of nutrients as they compost. Bagging will significantly reduce this process, so if you use a bagger, just make sure you skip using it a few times to allow some of the clippings to make their way back into the earth.
Next is the effect baggers for zero turn mowers can have on the mower’s performance and safety. Zero turns carry most of their weight in the rear of the mower. Adding a bagger with full bags adds a lot of weight to the mower. This makes the front of the mower very light and especially dangerous when going up slopes or applying too much acceleration. So, a bagging system may not be a safe option if you have a hilly yard. Additionally, zero turns are known for their maneuverability. Adding a bagger to a zero turn can make them very cumbersome and clumsy. As a result, you’ll need to slow down and watch out for your surroundings more.
Finally, instead of asking, can you put a bagger on a zero turn mower? Ask, can your zero turn mower handle a bagger? You need to make sure your zero turn has the power to handle a bagger or any other type of collection system. The added strain these systems apply is going to really put your mower to the test. So if you are concerned if your mower can handle a bagger, it’s best to check what your manufacturer recommends and make sure you have enough horsepower.
About Tom Greene
I’ve always had a keen interest in lawn care as long as I can remember. Friends used to call me the “lawn mower guru” (hence the site name), but I’m anything but. I just enjoy cutting my lawn and spending time outdoors. I also love the well-deserved doughnuts and coffee afterward!
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Copyright © 2010. 2022 LawnMowerGuru.com, All Rights Reserved.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. You can learn more about this here.
Best riding lawn mower with a bagger 2023
The best riding lawn mower with a bagger takes the chore out of lawn maintenance.
Want to achieve a manicured lawn? Using the best riding lawn mower with a bagger help keep your yard pristine. Attaching a bagger means you don’t leave unsightly clumps of grass scattered across the lawn.
Riding mowers are convenient for large plots, making short work of lawns of several acres. If you’re mowing on a grand scale, collecting all the grass clippings can be daunting. But a riding lawn mower with a bagger does the work for you, sparing you from this mammoth task. It can save you time by tackling two chores at once.
If you’re in the market for a riding mower, there are several factors to weigh up. It pays to consider factors like speed, quality of the cut, and cost. Our guide to the best riding lawn mowers takes you through the buying process, step-by-step.
Look out for mowers that offer different options for your grass clippings to give you more choices. You may see products with a mulching kit attachment, which allows you to return nutrients to the grass.
Adding a bagger into the equation can make the buying process more complex. Be aware that most riding mowers don’t supply a bagger with the product. you will need to purchase this separately and factor it into your budget.
Best riding lawn mower with a bagger
Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews
Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
When choosing a bagger, compatibility is the top consideration. Not all baggers fit all mowers, so check this before you commit. You will also want to factor in the capacity of the bagger, which will depend on the size of your plot. Thankfully, we’ve researched the best riding lawn mowers suitable for use with a bagger. We’ve saved you a job by recommending a compatible bagger for each one.
Riding lawn mowers with a bagger
Reasons to avoid
If you want to take the chore out of lawn maintenance, the Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 has got you covered.
The Troy-Bilt Bronco 42 scores a solid 4.3 out of 5 from over 900 reviews on the Troy-Bilt website, with 84% of reviewers recommending the product. People praise the speed, with several mentioning it cut down on mowing time. However, several reviews suggest the pedal is stiff, which may be tiring if operating it for hours at a time.
Accelerating up to 5.5 mph, it makes short work of the largest plots. The extra-wide 42-inch cutting deck enables you to cover more ground and saves you time. This mower is designed with convenience in mind. The separate bagger accessory makes for easy clean-up, as you don’t have to comb the lawn for stray clumps of grass.
The AGM battery promises reliable starting, meaning you can feel confident it will fire up after long periods in storage. Want manicured results? Clever design features like the anti-scalp wheels help you minimize unsightly tire marks. At slightly over the 2,000 mark, it falls into the middle range of the mowers on our list, but remember to factor the bagger into the price too.
Compatible 42 Inch and 46 Inch Double Bagger This double bagger makes collecting grass clippings a breeze. It comes with 2 bags, providing ample capacity for up to 6.5 bushels. It’s suitable for other mowers with a 42 or 46-inch cutting deck, including Craftsman, Columbia, Remington, and Yard-Man products.
Reasons to avoid
The Cub Cadet XT1 is designed to be an absolute powerhouse of a riding lawn mower, making it a great choice for those with extra large lawns.
Cub Cadet XT1 scores a decent 4.0 out of 5 on the manufacturer’s website. Users were impressed with the power of the machine, with several mentioning it can handle bumpy and challenging terrain, including hills. A couple of reviewers complained about issues with the battery not holding its charge, though they were in a minority. It’s backed by a generous 3-year warranty to put your mind at rest.
With a 19-horsepower Briggs and Stratton engine, it can help you blitz through the mowing. Plus, it can even handle hills, ideal if you’re on an uneven plot. If you want a spotless finish, you’ll be pleased to know this mower is compatible with a bagger, saving you from raking unsightly clippings. This trusty machine can help with other tasks around the yard, with a range of accessories available to purchase separately, including a snow blower, mulch kit, and rear spreader.
The Cub Cadet XT1 makes for a responsive ride, thanks to a 16-inch turning radius. Plus, it spares you the effort of shifting gears with the hydrostatic transmission. simply press the pedal and go. The downsides? Some assembly is required, so you will need to factor this in. At around 2,400, the Cub Cadet XT1 isn’t the cheapest lawn mower with a bagger, but it may be worth the investment if you want maximum power.
Compatible 42 Inch and 46 Inch double bagger Eliminate the faff of raking grass clippings with this double bagger. It includes two bags with a 6.5 bushel capacity. It’s compatible with Cub Cadet XT1 and XT2 Enduro Series lawn tractors with a 42 or 46-inch mowing deck.
Reasons to avoid
If you want an upgrade for a walk-behind mower, look no further than the Troy-Bilt TB30B.
The Troy-Bilt TB30B scores a commendable 4.2 out of 5 out of 245 reviews on Home Depot. People are pleased with this model as a replacement for a push-mower, noting it’s ideal for mid-sized lawns. They are also confident in its cutting ability. A handful of reviews mention it is lightweight, which means it’s best suited to flat terrain to avoid tipping over.
This compact riding mower is similar in size to a push model, perfect for when storage space is at a premium. If you don’t want to spend a fortune on a riding mower but still want good results, the Troy-Bilt TB30B could be for you. At 1899, it’s the cheapest option on our list, ideal if you’re on a budget.
Plus, a mulching kit is included. It’s a fantastic way to return nutrients to the soil, resulting in a greener, healthier lawn. This mower is also compatible with a bagger, which you can purchase separately for sections you want to keep pristine.
As you would expect for a smaller mower, it may take you slightly longer to get the job done. The cutting deck is narrower than other options, so you may need more passes to cover the space. For that reason, it’s best suited to medium plots.
Compatible 30 Inch Double Bagger This bagger is designed for compact rear-engine riding mowers, including Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, Columbia, Remington, and Yard machines from 2013 or later. It fits a cutting deck of 30 inches and provides a capacity of 3.2 bushels. You can use this bagger to collect leaves in the fall, making it a versatile choice.
Reasons to avoid
If you’re searching for a premium model, the Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 fits the bill. At around 3,800, it is a splurge, but several features justify the price tag.
The Cub Cadet Ultima ZT1 has rave reviews, scoring 4.6 out of 5 with over 3,000 reviews on Home Depot. 89% of reviewers recommend this product. People love the superior performance and maneuverability of this zero-turn mower. One reviewer commented that “it turns on a dime.” The drawbacks? Several are disappointed that there is no hour meter, which makes it hard to know when to perform maintenance tasks. A few people suggest it could benefit from a gas display level too.
Thanks to a Kawasaki 23-horsepower engine, it offers impressive power. Combined with a super-sized 50-inch cutting deck, it makes light work of mowing the largest yards. This beast of a machine can tackle plots over 5 acres, including ones with slight hills.
All of this means it cuts down on mowing time, allowing you the leisure to sit back and admire your handiwork. With the help of this nippy machine, you can transform lawn maintenance from a chore into an enjoyable experience.
It doesn’t disappoint on mowing performance either. The Aeroforce cutting system was judged best-in-class according to independent testing, offering a precise, even finish. If we’re being picky, it could benefit from a few features to finish it off, like armrests and an hour meter, but overall, it’s a top-quality mower.
Compatible 50 Inch and 54 Inch Double Bagger This extra-large double bagger fits Ultima ZT1-50 and ZT1-54 zero-turn lawn mowers, offering ample room with a 6.5 bushel capacity. The hood design has been improved to provide optimal performance, delivering a neat finish.
Pros and cons of having a riding lawn mower with a bagger
If convenience is a priority, a riding lawn mower with a bagger may be a sound investment.
“When selecting a bagger, make sure that it is compatible with your riding lawn mower, and always be sure to select the bagger with the appropriate capacity. The larger the lawn, the higher the capacity.” Mark Bradley, CEO of Landscape Management Network
“Riding lawn mowers can make maintaining large patches of grass easy, but without a bagger, they can often create a larger mess than you started with. Purchasing a riding lawn mower with a bagger attachment will make picking up clippings an afterthought as they are conveniently picked up and placed in the attached plastic bin,” says Mark Bradley, CEO of Landscape Management Network (LMN).
This may be important to you if you’re on a large plot where it might not be practical to rake a huge area or if you want to minimize physical exertion. The other main reason people choose a mower with a bagger is to enhance curb appeal, as it creates a well-groomed look.
Yet, you’ll want to weigh up the pros and cons. “One of the biggest trade-offs users of baggers will have to make is not having the additional fertilizing benefit of leftover trimmings on their manicured grass. Instead, they will have to frequently use fertilizer to keep their lawn in pristine shape,” explains Mark. This means you will need to factor this into your schedule to keep your lawn healthy.
A greener option might be to purchase a separate mulching attachment. You could use this to give the grass a nutrient boost or on areas out of sight where looks are less important.
Mark Bradley, CEO of Landscape Management Network, has decades of experience in the landscape industry and is an expert on all things yard care. Before co-founding Landscape Management Network, Bradley built TBG Landscape from a backyard business into one of North America’s Top 100 landscape contracting companies.
Get the Top Ten Reviews Newsletter
The best reviews, product advice, news and more!
By submitting your information you agree to the Terms Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
Louise Bond is a UK-based writer specializing in health and wellbeing. She has over eight years of experience in management within health and care and brings this passion and expertise to her writing. Louise has been published in The Guardian, Live Science, Fit Well, Tom’s Guide, Planet Mindful, Breathe, and Psychreg. She is at her happiest when she is out in nature, whether that’s on an invigorating hike or pottering in the garden.
LG LWC3063BD Stainless Convection Double Wall Oven review
Grass Collection
Our grass collection accessories are built to stand up to hard use season after season. They’re engineered to fit Wright mowers as well as other professional brands.
Origins of the Grass Gobbler Before Bill Wright invented the first stand-on mower, the Stander, he invented and began manufacturing welded steel grass catchers that could withstand the rigors of commercial use.
Grass Gobbler /h2>
With a simple all-steel construction, the Grass Gobbler has proven itself to be the most durable catcher ever made.
- Designed for continuous airflow and high-density packing
- Durable all steel construction
- Available in small (2.0 cu. ft.), regular (3.3 cu. ft.) and jumbo (4.3 cu. ft.) capacities
- Fits most professional brands
Use the chart below to find which Grass Gobbler is compatible with your mower.
For a more detailed chart and with listings of older mowers, go to the ‘Gobbler Identification Chart’ in the Accessory Parts Usage Charts Section below.
| Mower | Gobbler |
| Exmark VIKING, Metro, E, S, X series. | GG450 / GGJ550 |
| Gravely 2002 later Pro G H/Pro Turn, Pro Walk | WRJ300-3 |
| Deere 7-iron | JD200-2 / JDJ300-3 |
| Wright type Deere | JDJ500-HD |
| Ransomes/Bobcat 94′ Later | GG250 / GGJ350 |
| Ransomes/Bobcat 01′ Later Floating Deck | TE250 / TEJ350 |
| Ransomes/Bobcat 01′ Fixed Deck | GG450 / GGJ550 |
| Scag | SC200-2 / SCJ300-3 |
| Scag Advantage | SA200-2 / SAJ300-3 |
| Scag Velocity | SVJ300-3 |
| Ferris, Snapper, Simplicity (iCD type deck) | FS200-2/FSJ300-3 |
| Toro Floating Dck 01′ Later Turbo Force | TOJ350 |
| Wright Original | WR200-2 / WRJ300-3 |
| Wright AERO Core | WRJ500-5 |
| Leaf Gobbler fits all Jumbo | LG1000 |
Leaf Gobbler /h2>
- Double your collection capacity to 8.9 cu. ft. overall on your Jumbo Grass Gobbler
- The Leaf Gobbler has a 4.6 cu. ft. capacity
- The total shipping weight is 21 lbs.
- Holds up to 8 bushels for 48” models, 12 bushels for 61” models, and your choice of 8 or 12 bushel systems for 52” models
WrightVac Powered Bagger
The Ultimate Bagger for the Ultimate Mower. The WrightVac system is designed to meet the demanding needs you face everyday as a professional landscaper. Our goal was to create a bagger system to match the performance of the mower. This means the WrightVac was engineered to produce enough airflow to prevent clogging even when mowing at max speed of 13mph; which makes it ideal for both the ZX series and the ZK.
In addition, the WrightVac shares the same heavy-duty low low-maintenance elements as the ZXT resulting in a truly commercial-grade powered bagger.
- The kit includes: Blower, 3 Bin Bagger, Front Hitch-Receiver and Weight Kit
- Deck compatible Belt kit to be purchased separately
- WrightVac’s purchased same date or later than ZXT, will share mower warranty
- Holds up to 12 bushels of grass
Use the table below to get the correct Wright part numbers.
| Description | Notes | Part Number |
| Grass Collection System, 3 Bag, ZXT/ZXL/ZK | Includes: WrightVac blower, Bagger, ZXT/ZXL/ZK weight kit, and front hitch receiver | 95320001 |
| Pulley Kit, 52, GCS 3 Bag, ZXT/ZXL | ZXT/ZXL Deck size specific parts not included in 95320001 | 95320002 |
| Pulley Kit, 61, GCS 3 Bag, ZXT/ZXL | ZXT/ZXL Deck size specific parts not included in 95320001 | 95320003 |
| Pulley Kit, 72, GCS 3 Bag, ZXT/ZXL | ZXT/ZXL Deck size specific parts not included in 95320001 | 95320004 |
| Pulley Kit, 52, GCS 3 Bag, ZK | ZK Deck size specific parts not included in 95320001 | 95320006 |
| Pulley Kit, 61, GCS 3 Bag, ZK | ZK Deck size specific parts not included in 95320001 | 95320007 |
| Pulley Kit, 72, GCS 3 Bag, ZK | ZK Deck size specific parts not included in 95320001 | 95320008 |
| Adaptor Kit, WSZK | Includes ZK platform adaptor, additional weight plates, and deck lift spring assist kit | 95320009 |
| WrightVac Blower | Full compatibility with ZXT only | 98320110 |
Powered Grass Collection System
Designed specifically for Wright Z and ZTO models, the powered grass collection system holds up to 8 bushels for 48” models, 12 bushels for 61” models, and your choice of 8 or 12 bushel systems for 52” models. The rear wheel motors can be moved fore and aft to maintain proper weight balance.
- Designed specifically for Wright Z and ZTO models
- Rear wheel motors can be moved fore and aft to maintain proper weight balance
- Holds up to 8 bushels for 48” models, 12 bushels for 61” models, and your choice of 8 or 12 bushel systems for 52” models
The table below will give you the correct Wright part number based on your mower cutter deck.
| Deck Configuration | Part Number |
| GCS, TWIN RECEPTACLE, 48 AERO-CORE | 98320095 |
| GCS, TWIN RECEPTACLE, 52 AERO-CORE | 98320096 |
| GCS, TRIPLE RECEPTACLE, 52 AERO-CORE | 98320097 |
| GCS, TRIPLE RECEPTACLE, 61 AERO-CORE | 98320098 |
MidMount PowerVac Collection Systems
With a PowerVac Collection System for your Grasshopper zero-turn mower, you’re getting the most powerful, maneuverable and efficient leaf-collecting, grass-catching and debris-removing equipment available for turf. Built on more than 50 years of airflow research, PowerVac Collection Systems deliver a professional, finished look every time you mow.
Watch the PowerVac Collection System in action
Every PowerVac features a rear-mounted collector for zero-turn maneuverability and a deck-driven vacuum that create a professional, finished look every time. Make a clean sweep through virtually any lawn debris, removing wet grass and high-moisture leaves, pine straw, dethatching debris, small sticks, seed pods and acorns, paper, litter and tough weeds. Simply adjust your mowing speed to your conditions for one-pass perfection every time.
The force of the cutting blades discharges clippings and debris directly into the trash-ingesting steel impeller, which reduces and compacts debris for clog-free performance, even in adverse conditions.
Grasshopper’s exclusive Quik-D-Tatch Vac system allows quick conversion to side discharge or Down Discharge mulching in seconds without tools, and can be reinstalled just as easily, making PowerVac perfect for commercial operators servicing multiple accounts.
