GRASSCYCLING

(the "don't bag it" way to a healthier lawn)

It's summertime...time to enjoy the great outdoors. Unfortunately, summertime is also when we have to mow the lawn. Here's a real time-saver: don't bag your grass when you cut it. In addition to the fact that you'll do less work when cutting the grass (which in itself should be reason enough), you'll be adding nutrients to your lawn every time you mow.

Here's the secret to grasscycling: when you mow, set your blade height so it takes off no more than 1/3 of the total grass height (leaving the grass about 2" to 3" high).

Grasscycling is the process of not bagging your grass clippings. Grass clippings will naturally break down and replenish your lawn, and at the same time help the grass maintain good moisture content and temperature. Grass clippings contain approximately 80 percent water, four percent nitrogen, two percent potassium, and one-half percent phosphorus. Because they are mostly water, they break down quickly. Although a popular misconception, grass clippings do NOT cause or contribute to thatch buildup. (Thatch is mostly dead roots and other fibrous material).

In addition, you will not have to stop mowing every 15 minutes to empty the mower bag. If you bag your grass clippings, you're not only taking up valuable landfill space, you're also throwing away valuable nutrients. These nutrients can make your grass look greener and healthier with less work.

So not bagging your grass will also cut down on the amount of time you spend fertilizing. How's that for saving time.

Minimize fall yardwork, too.

Grasscycling is great for the summer months, but what about leaves in the fall? If you would rather not spend the time and energy to bag your leaves, try some of these Leaf Tips.
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