What is Grasscycling
Grasscycling is the natural recycling of grass by leaving short grass clippings on the lawn when mowing. Grass clippings will quickly decompose, returning valuable nutrients to the soil.
Grasscycling saves time and money, and protects the environment. Mowing time is reduced since the bagging and disposal of clippings is eliminated. Grass clippings add valuable nutrients and organic matter to the soil and produces healthy, green lawns. Grasscycling reduces turf grass fertilizer and water requirements, which minimize chemical runoff entering storm drains and polluting creeks, rivers, and lakes.
Grasscycling also reduces the amount of yard trimmings disposed in landfills. Research has shown that lawns generate approximately 300 pounds of grass clippings per 1000 square feet annually. This amounts to 6 1/2 tons per acre each year! Grass clippings are too valuable to throw away, and grasscycling allows reuse of this green material in our urban landscapes.
Guidelines for Mowing Heights
Lawngrass | Height after mowing (inches) |
Bermudagrass | 3/4 to 1 |
Centipedegrass | 1 |
St.Augustinegrass | 3 to 4 |
Bahiagrass | 3 to 4 |
Zoysiagrass | 3/4 to 1 1/2 |
Tall Fescue | 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 |
Kentucky Bluegrass | 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 |
Fine Fescue | 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 |
Perennial Ryegrass | 1 1/2 to 2 ½ |
Yard waste can account for 20% of the solid waste in local landfills, and up to 50% of all yard waste is grass clippings. Grass clippings are recyclable and do not need to take up valuable landfill space. To deal with the solid waste crisis in Florida
Using grass clippings as a source of fertilizer for your lawn can save time and money and help protect the environment.
Leaving grass clippings on your lawn can generate up to 25% of the lawn's yearly fertilizer needs and reduce the amount of time and money you spend fertilizing and bagging. Lawns stay greener and healthier when clippings are left on them.
Some Common Questions:
Does grasscycling cause thatch?
No. Research has shown that grass roots are the primary cause of thatch, not grass clippings. Thatch is composed primarily of roots, stems, rhizomes, and other plant materials. These plant materials contain large amounts of lignin (fibrous material) and decompose slowly. Grass clippings are approximately 80-85 percent water with only small amounts of lignin, and decompose rapidly.
Does grasscycling spread lawn disease?
No. Research has shown that grass roots are the primary cause of thatch, not grass clippings. Thatch is composed primarily of roots, stems, rhizomes, and other plant materials. These plant materials contain large amounts of lignin (fibrous material) and decompose slowly. Grass clippings are approximately 80-85 percent water with only small amounts of lignin, and decompose rapidly.
Will grasscycling make my lawn look bad?
No. If a lawn is properly mowed, watered, and fertilized, grasscycling can actually produce a healthier looking lawn. It is important to cut the lawn frequently to produce small clippings that will decompose quickly. If a lawn is not cut frequently and clippings are left on the lawn, it will produce a "hay-like" look which can be unsightly.
Does grasscycling cause thatch?
No. Research has shown that grass roots are the primary cause of thatch, not grass clippings. Thatch is composed primarily of roots, stems, rhizomes, and other plant materials. These plant materials contain large amounts of lignin (fibrous material) and decompose slowly. Grass clippings are approximately 80-85 percent water with only small amounts of lignin, and decompose rapidly.
Does grasscycling spread lawn disease?
No. Research has shown that grass roots are the primary cause of thatch, not grass clippings. Thatch is composed primarily of roots, stems, rhizomes, and other plant materials. These plant materials contain large amounts of lignin (fibrous material) and decompose slowly. Grass clippings are approximately 80-85 percent water with only small amounts of lignin, and decompose rapidly.
Will grasscycling make my lawn look bad?
No. If a lawn is properly mowed, watered, and fertilized, grasscycling can actually produce a healthier looking lawn. It is important to cut the lawn frequently to produce small clippings that will decompose quickly. If a lawn is not cut frequently and clippings are left on the lawn, it will produce a "hay-like" look which can be unsightly.
Mulching
How To Mulch
Mulch is used for appearance, moisture retention, weed control, and in keeping soil temperatures warm in the winter, cool in the summer. Mulching is helpful to keep erosion from occurring in landscapes. It is placed around bedding plants, trees, and shrubs. Listed is information on the proper way of how to mulch.
Mulch Types
There are different types of mulch to choose from which are sold at garden centers by the bag. Types that are usually available are cedar or cypress mulch. Both are considered to be a higher grade. Nurseries offer loose wood mulch in large quantities, which can be delivered ( Be prepared for a pile dumped on your property ). Some counties offer free mulch to be picked up that is usually a lower grade, although can be sufficient. A pickup truck will be needed to transport it to your location. Contact your local extension service for information on free mulch.
Tips And Information For Mulching
Proper mulching is important for the health of plants, trees, and shrubs. Follow these helpful tips to assure it is done correctly. Also listed is some information on mulch.
1 Applying the amount of mulch is determined by the texture and it’s density. Spread fine mulch two to three inches deep after settling to avoid suffocating the roots of plants. It is not necessary to apply excessive amounts when mulching. Plus using too much mulch is just a waste of money.
2 Mulch composed of shredded or small leaves such as oak leaves should not be spread exceeding a depth of two inches. The leaves become compacted together which restricts water and air to the root system. DO NOT pile too high.
3 DO NOT pile mulch close to or against the base of any tree or shrub. This can cause ” ROOT – ROT ” from lack of air circulation and too much moisture retention. Leave space around the base and trunk when mulching.
4 DO NOT place mulch above the lower stems of shrubs burying them causing them to rot. This will promote a disease known as ” STEM – ROT “.
5 DO NOT put mulch up against or too close to the trunk of citrus trees. Place around at the end of where the canopy extends to or do not mulch at all, for it really is not necessary for mulching citrus trees.
6 Mulch in larger pieces last longer and is better for weed control. Fine mulch adds nutrients to the soil faster by breaking down quicker.
7 Professional landscapers mostly use a mulch containing both fine and course wood mulch.
8 Organic mulch does not need to be replaced more often and less is required as the plants or shrubs mature.
9 AVOID piling mulch up against walls of buildings when mulching in order to keep from attracting termites. Place it at least two feet away from your home.
10 DO NOT leave old mulch in your landscape for a long time. Clean it out and replace it with fresh brand new, to avoid fungus problems to your plants, and shrubs.
11 It is NOT recommended to use a ” RED – DYED ” mulch which can create a chemical un – balance in the soil. This can be harmful to the health of plants, trees, and shrubs.
12 I don’t prefer to use pine bark nuggets for they attract the nesting of carpenter ants which will eventually wind up in your home, especially if placed too close to it.
Following the information on mulching listed above, will help you achieve the successful garden and landscape wanted by everyone. Proper usage of mulch is an important part of landscaping.
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