Do you really need to bag and haul away your grass clippings—or could they actually be the key to a greener lawn?
The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension is encouraging homeowners to consider grasscycling as a sustainable alternative to bagging lawn clippings. Grasscycling is the practice of leaving clippings on the lawn after mowing, allowing them to naturally decompose and return nutrients to the soil. According to turfgrass specialists, the benefits of grasscycling extend well beyond reducing yard waste. Studies have shown that homeowners who grasscycle save an average of seven hours of yard work over six months. The practice also conserves landfill space, supports soil fertility, and promotes healthier lawns without additional costs.
Myths and Facts
One common misconception is that leaving clippings on the lawn contributes to thatch buildup. Research has proven otherwise—thatch is caused by stems, shoots, and roots, not clippings. Instead, clippings break down quickly, often in less than a week, and can supply up to 20 percent of a lawn’s nitrogen needs.
Best Practices for Grasscycling
Grasscycling does not require special equipment; any mower can be used. However, success depends on proper mowing and fertilization practices:
- Mow at the recommended height for the turfgrass species.
- Centipedegrass: 1.0-2.0 inches
- Common Bermudagrass: 1.0-2.0 inches
- Hybrid Bermudagrass: 1.0-1.5 inches
- Tall Fescue: 2.0-3.0 inches
- Zoysiagrass: 1.0-2.0 inches
- Keep mower blades sharp and mow when the grass is dry.
- Remove no more than one-third of the leaf blade at a time.
- Adjust mowing height during stress periods, such as drought, to protect grass health.
If clippings remain on top of the lawn rather than settling into the canopy, homeowners should scatter them with a rake or blower to prevent buildup.
Nutrient and Water Management
Grasscycling works best when paired with timely and appropriate fertilization. A soil test, available through county Extension offices, provides the most accurate guidance. Without a test, a general fertilizer such as 16-4-8 may be used, though over-fertilization should be avoided. Overly rapid growth increases mowing frequency and water demand.
For water management, experts recommend irrigating lawns only when symptoms of stress appear, such as dull bluish-green leaves or lingering footprints. Watering between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. is the optimal window to reduce evaporation and disease risk.
Summary
When lawns are properly maintained, grasscycling improves soil health, reduces fertilizer needs, saves time, and supports statewide conservation efforts. By mowing at the right height, fertilizing wisely, and avoiding excessive watering, Georgia homeowners can create healthy lawns that benefit both their property and the environment.
For more information, contact your local UGA Cooperative Extension office at 706-795-2281 or uge1191@uga.edu or visit the UGA Extension Publication website.
