Also, for people who owns a tractor: http://www.ehow.com/way_5860802_do-charge-lawn-tractor-battery_.html
"lawn tractor battery dead at the beginning of the mowing season in the spring. This is because the battery sits without actively charging and recharging. The battery will discharge more quickly if the battery cables are left hooked to the battery. Part of a good winterization program for a lawn tractor is to disconnect, remove and store the battery in a garage. "