Grasscycling is simple: all you have to do is leave clippings on the lawn.
By grasscycling you can:
- return valuable nutrients to the soil and reduce the need for fertilizer
- save time and energy by not raking and bagging clippings
- save tax dollars by reducing collection and processing costs
Use grass clippings in your yard:
- spread clippings in a vegetable or flower garden
- use clippings as mulch under bushes or add to the soil
- mix grass clippings with leaves and soil in your backyard composter
Grasscycling
Mulch mowing
Mulch mowers finely chop grass clippings and leaves and spread the material on the lawn. This lets clippings break down quickly. Many mowers come with a mulching kit or blade, however, a mulching blade or an adapter kit may be available for your existing mower.
You can also mulch last fall’s leaves that were left on the lawn with any type of mower. Pile leaves around plants and trees for moisture conservation, weed control and insulation on cool spring evenings and cooler in summer. Mulch also enriches garden soil as it decomposes.
Tips for a healthy, environmentally friendly lawn
- Never cut off more than 1/3 of the grass blade in one mowing. Leave at least 2-3 inches on the grass blades after cutting. Adjust mower height accordingly.
- Keep your mower blade sharp. Dull mowers tear the grass tips instead of mulching them.
- Keep the deck clean. A clogged deck won't mulch or discharge properly.
- Only mow when the grass is dry.
- Water your lawn in the early morning or in the evening to reduce water loss to evaporation.
- Only water dry spots on your lawn as needed. Over watering can cause fungus disease and shallow-rooted grass.
- Over fertilizing your lawn can cause excessive growth and thatch.