What is grass-cycling?

Grass-cycling is the simple practice of leaving grass clippings on the lawn when mowing. Once cut, grass clippings first dehydrate, then decompose and quickly disappear from view.

Grass-cycling

  • Benefits the environment by naturally recycling the clippings
  • Encourages a healthier lawn by returning nutrients to the soil beneath the lawn
  • Reduces work because you don’t have to bag or rake and dispose of your clippings
  • Saves you money because you don’t have to pay for disposal of your clippings


Common Concerns Regarding Grass-cycling

  • Does grass-cycling 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 and other plant materials. These plant materials contain large amounts of lignin (fibrous material) and decompose slowly. Grass clippings are approximately 80-85% water with only small amounts of lignin and decompose much quicker.
  • Does grass-cycling spread lawn disease?
    • No! Improper watering and fertilizing have a much greater impact on disease spread than grass-cycling. If a desirable environment for turfgrass disease is present, the infestation will occur whether clippings are collected or not.
  • Will grass-cycling make my lawn look bad?
    • No! If a lawn is properly mowed, watered, fertilized, grass-cycling can actually produce a healthier 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 the clippings are left on the lawn, it will produce a “hay-like” look which may be unsightly.

Show All Answers

1. What is Composting?
2. What is grass-cycling?
3. Why should you compost?