The Truth About Grass Clippings: Do You Need to Remove Them?

Since I've been in the landscaping business for over two decades, I've seen countless debates about grass clippings. Should you remove them or leave them as they fall? In this article, I will simplify the information for you in straightforward terms, helping you understand the benefits and drawbacks of leaving grass clippings on your lawn.

Is it Necessary to Remove Grass Clippings from Your Lawn?

Not always. In fact, most of the time, leaving grass clippings on your lawn is beneficial. Let me explain why:

Natural Fertilizer

Those grass clippings decompose and become a natural fertilizer that feeds your lawn. This means you don't need to spend extra money on chemical fertilizers, which can be both expensive and potentially harmful to the environment.

Moisture Retention

The clippings help retain moisture in the soil. This not only reduces your watering needs but also ensures your lawn stays lush and green, especially during hot summers.

Reduced Waste

By allowing clippings to decompose, you reduce waste going to landfills. This is good for the environment and reduces the burden on your back compared to bagging the clippings.

When to Remove Clippings

While generally beneficial, there are situations where you should consider removing grass clippings:

Diseased Grass

If your lawn is suffering from disease, removing the clippings can help prevent the spread of the disease. Bagging and disposing of the clippings is recommended in these cases to ensure the lawn remains healthy.

Short Clippings: If the clippings are short and drop into the grass without forming a mat, there's no need to remove them. Tall Grass: If the grass has grown tall and the clippings are long and form a mat on the grass, you should remove them. Mats can be unsightly and may smother the grass beneath them, leading to yellow patches.

Additional Tips

To avoid clippings piling up and affecting your lawn, follow these tips:

Disperse Any Piles: Use a leaf blower to disperse any clippings that pile up on your lawn. Bag Every Other Mow: Bag every other mow to prevent thatch buildup, which can disrupt the health of your lawn.

In conclusion, the decision to remove grass clippings depends on your lawn's condition and environmental practices. There are clear benefits to leaving clippings, but it's important to be mindful of the potential downsides, especially during disease outbreaks or when grass has grown excessively tall.