Fermented (or partially broken-down) grass clippings make excellent mulch for gardens and landscape beds. They offer several advantages that are well recognized by gardeners and agriculturalists:
- Moisture retention: Grass clippings, when used as mulch, help retain soil moisture due to their high water content (80-85%) and ability to form a protective barrier on the soil surface.[1][2]
- Weed suppression: A thin layer of clippings laid on the soil blocks sunlight and suppresses weed growth.[3][2][1]
- Nutrient contribution: As they decompose, grass clippings slowly release nitrogen, potassium, and a bit of phosphorus, acting as a natural slow-release fertilizer. This organic matter improves long-term soil health and increases water retention capabilities.[4][2][5][3]
- Temperature regulation: Mulch from grass clippings acts as an insulator, helping to moderate soil temperature by protecting roots from extreme heat or cold.[2][5]
- Gradual decomposition: If the clippings are fermented (partially decomposed or pre-dried), they are less likely to mat and go anaerobic. This leads to a slower, more controlled breakdown, minimizing odors and slimy mats that occur when fresh clippings are applied too thickly or left in wet piles.[6][5][3]
Key Application Tips
- Apply in thin layers (1-2 inches): This prevents matting, odors, and anaerobic decomposition.[5][3][6]
- Dry or fermented clippings preferred: Partially decomposed (fermented) or dried clippings decompose slowly and are safer against matting; avoid using very wet, fresh clippings.[7][6]
- Avoid treated clippings: Don't use grass from lawns recently treated with herbicides or pesticides, as residues can harm desirable plants.[6][7]
- Gradually build up mulch: You can add more clippings over time, letting each layer dry before the next.[3][5]
By fermenting or partially drying your grass clippings, you create a slow-release, sustainable mulch that enhances soil health and productivity—all while reducing waste and cost.[4][2][5][3]
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- https://takecareoftexas.org/about-us/blog/unleash-power-grass-clippings
- https://www.lawnstarter.com/blog/lawn-care-2/reasons-to-use-grass-clippings-as-mulch/
- https://www.growveg.com/guides/using-grass-clippings-as-vegetable-garden-mulch/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcmR8KbJzH8
- https://www.ecoflow.com/us/blog/what-to-do-with-grass-clippings
- https://insteading.com/blog/composting-grass-clippings/
- https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/what-do-lawn-clippings
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlPGNCu24nA
- https://www.reddit.com/r/gardening/comments/1cz3hpq/can_i_use_lawn_trimmings_as_mulch_or_any_other/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sVzaIPahlcA
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