CHOOSING the right lawnmower is like choosing a car, and there is certainly no 'one size fits all' solution for local gardeners. 

Of course, anyone with grass to cut will have a vague idea of what they might need for the task at hand; but they may be surprised to know that lawnmower technology has advanced considerably in recent years. 

For those with a small garden and access to an electric power supply, a small, electric lawnmower could prove to be the ideal solution. 

With such a power source, there is no need to be running to the filling station for petrol at the first sign of sun; simply plug in and go. Such machines also don't need services, and maintenance is negligible. 

However, those with such a mower need to be aware of the limitations, and if a garden is larger than around six metres square, a traditional petrol-powered lawnmower may be in order. 

For those in this situation, a self-propelled, walk-behind lawnmower will provide additional power for bigger crops, and do away with the need for often cumbersome electric leads. 

As weather conditions have been poor and there have been few opportunities to cut this season so far, something with a bit more 'oomph' could well be needed for long-awaited first cuts. 

However, the labour-intensive nature of walk-behind lawnmowers must also be considered. Grass boxes are filling all the time, and especially in moist conditions, can be heavy. Walking to and from the grass dumping area is a task that can soon become a burden. 

For those with a bigger garden, and indeed those who fancy an easier life, a ride-on lawnmower is the next logical step. Such machines are a dream for those with a lot cutting to do; simply sit on, steer, and let the machine do the work. 

However, such ease also comes with a price, and garden owners must weigh up whether the additional cost and maintenance is worth the time saved. 

As a side note, it is also tempting to invest in cheaper, second-hand machines of a certain vintage; in this instance its a case of buyer beware, and the threat of belts slipping, mechanical failures and wear and tear can often prove costly. 

Finally, those who squirm at the idea of cutting grass altogether may be interested in new-fangled 'Robot Lawnmowers'. Although these machines have been around for a number of years now, the technology is still relatively new. 

The robot - a smart-looking contraption which is around the size of a large flowerpot - can be programmed to travel across grassland several times a day, slicing a small amount of grass as it goes. The frequency of this process ensures that grass doesn't have to be dumped or lifted, and the cuttings form a natural fertiliser that promotes lawn health. 

Boundaries, in the form of special wire, can be set across the garden, ensuring that the machine doesn't go astray - and if it does veer of course, gets blown over or hits an obstacle, it will let its owner know via an app. Technology is an amazing thing!