You may compost clippings and leaves in various ways. See garden magazines or clubs for information, or go to your local library for help. Finished compost is crumbly. It is rich in soil nutrients, and can be spread on your lawn. Compost may also be worked into soil. It adds humus to soil and improves soil texture, making soil looser and easier to work. Mulching Tips Advantages: · You do not have to rake or bag grass or leaves. · Lawn holds moisture better during dry weather. · Soil temperatures stay down during hot weather. · Mulch adds nutrients to soil, and reduces need for fertilizer. Mulching does not make thatch.
Frequent shallow watering and fertilizer application produce thatch from roots that grow close to surface. Be careful when you mulch leaves in Fall. Grass needs sunlight in Fall to help store food for Winter. A thick layer of mulched leaves can prevent sunlight from getting to grass and smother it. You may have to mow with grass bag to remove this layer. Mulch only when the grass and leaves are dry. Mulching wet or damp grass or leaves may cause problems: · Clippings and leaves may build up on the underside of the mower deck. · Cut grass and leaves may form clumps. · Clippings and leaves may not be cut into small bits. · Engine may work harder and use more fuel.
Cut only top 1/3 of grass at a time. Use a different mowing pattern each time you mow. Overlap mowing paths 50-100 mm (2-4 in.). Slow down. Mulching takes more power. Keep blades sharp. Check them often. Clean underside of deck after each use. 56