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Thu, 20 Aug 2026

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 How landscape gardening is being electrified

The switch to quieter electric equipment is not going as fast as some would like.
Noise from leaf blowers has become a major concern, prompting cities across the US to ban petrol-powered landscaping equipment and encourage electric alternatives. These eco-friendly tools have several benefits: they produce fewer emissions, reduce vibrations, and lower exposure to pollution. However, some landscapers express reservations about switching to electric tools due to concerns over runtime, upfront cost, and weight. A professional landscaper estimates that transitioning all his company's equipment to electric would require an investment of around $10,000. Despite these challenges, major manufacturers like Stihl are investing heavily in electric power tools. Stihl aims for 35% of its sales to be battery-powered by next year and 80% by 2035. The company has developed a new battery system that uses high-performance batteries with improved efficiency. Some companies are creating innovative products, such as Whisper Aero's handheld leaf blower, which is powered by aerospace-grade fans. These electric tools are not only quieter but also offer greater flexibility for landscapers to work at times when residents demand quiet. In the long run, embracing electric equipment could bring significant rewards for gardeners and landscapers.