Uses for grass clipping for the home gardener

The weather is warmer, and spring is here. The grass is growing quickly, leading to more frequent mowing. So, what does one do with the grass clippings? Grass clippings are often just seen as yard waste, but for the home gardener, they can be a valuable resource. When handled properly, grass clippings offer multiple uses around the home, from soil improvements, fertilizer, compost material, to weed suppression. Mulch Clippings in the Lawn: The first common method of using grass clippings is to mulch them into your lawn. This method is referred to as grass-cycling. Grass clippings of an inch or less in length can be left on your lawn where they will filter down to the soil and decompose quickly. Remove clippings that are longer than one inch or clumps of clippings, for they can shadow or smother the grass beneath them, causing damage. Mowing regularly will greatly reduce the need to collect clippings. Avoid cutting more than 1/3 of the grass at a time to maintain a healthy lawn. Grass clippings contain 80 to 85 percent water and decompose rapidly, often in a couple of weeks. Grass clippings contain up to the equivalent per weight of 3 – 4 percent nitrogen, 0.5 - 1 percent phosphorus, and 2.0 – 3.0 percent potassium. Research has shown you can reduce the need for lawn fertilizer applications by up to 25 percent. (https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/know-how-know-more/2017-04-18-recycle-your-grass-clippings) Compost Ingredient: Grass clippings are high in nitrogen, making them the ideal "green" component in compost piles. When mixed with "brown" material like leaves, newspaper, straw, compost, or cardboard, they help accelerate decomposition. Clippings should be mixed thoroughly and not left in large, wet clumps to avoid odor issues caused by anaerobic decomposition. Regular turning and using a ratio by weight of 1 part green to 1 part brown material ensures the proper aeration and speeds up the decomposition process. (https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/what-do-lawn-clippings) Soil Amendment: Many gardeners use grass clippings as a mulch in vegetable or flower gardens. Over time, adding grass clippings to garden beds or working them into the soil improves organic matter content. This enhances the soil structure, increases microbial activity, and improves moisture retention. Before using fresh clippings as a soil amendment, be sure they are free of herbicides or lawn chemicals that could harm garden plants. Michigan State University researchers found clippings from some weed control products applied to lawns could cause injury to plants up to 14 days after an herbicide application. If an herbicide has been applied to your lawn, it is best to wait at least two mowings before collecting clippings. Insect or disease control products did not cause noticeable plant injury and broke down quickly in the decomposition process. (https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/mowing-lawn-turf) Mulch for Garden Beds: One of the most practical uses for grass clippings is as mulch. A thin layer of dried clippings can be spread around vegetables, flowers, and shrubs. This helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature. It is best to use dry clippings to reduce the risk of mold or rot. Dried clippings should be applied at a one-inch thickness. Clippings can be used as a barrier between rows and under walking paths in flower beds and vegetable gardens. They create a natural weed barrier and reduce foot traffic compaction. Unlike plastic or synthetic barriers, grass clippings break down and enrich the soil over time. Important Considerations: To safely use grass clippings, avoid using those recently treated with herbicides for dandelions or other broadleaf weeds. If your lawn has recently been treated, consult the product label or contact your lawn care company for any concerns regarding using clippings as mulch. When handled properly, grass clippings offer multiple uses around the home, from soil improvements, fertilizer, compost material, to weed suppression. By rethinking how to use grass clippings, gardeners can enhance their landscapes in a cost-effective, environmentally friendly way. Consider putting grass clippings to work in your landscape.