Bluegrass Breakdown

To compost or not to compost, that is the question: whether 'tis nobler to leave the grass lie where it falls or add it to the compost bin?

Making up about half of our yard trimmings by weight, the most important factor in disposing of grass is that it doesn’t end up in the landfill. I contend just mowing it is the best option for grass clippings and here are five reasons why:

 

1. Saves time as there is no need to stop and empty your bag attachment.
2. Reduces work as you don’t have to bag or rake.
3. Feeds your lawn. Grass clippings contain nutrients that can generate up to ONE THIRD of your lawn’s total fertilizer needs.
4. Decomposing grass clippings may enhance soil microbe activity.
5. Clippings shade the soil surface and reduce moisture loss due to evaporation.

 

I know some of you are thinking, “what about that nasty thatch?” According to the U.S. EPA, “thatch is actually a layer of organic material made up of grass roots, not mown grass blades. Grass clippings are about 90 percent water, so they decompose very quickly”.

 

Okay, so now you’re thinking, “I don’t have enough fruit and vegetable scraps to add the needed nitrogen to my compost. I need my clippings!” Solution found: eat more fruits and veggies, bring home your coffee grounds and tea bags from work, buy a bunny and add its droppings~ you get the picture!

 

BTW, my blog title: BluegrassBreakdown was written by Bill Monroe. If you’ve never heard it, look it up. It’ll get you motivated to get out and cut that grass!