Mulching, Grasscycling, & Other Alternatives to Composting

There are a variety of ways to reuse or recycle your yard trimmings instead of a traditional compost pile. The best method depends on your individual needs and resources.

Mulching

Simply spread leaves and grass clippings around the base of plants a few inches from the stem. Yard trimmings work first as mulch to retain moisture then decompose into a soil amendment.

Whether you use leaves, grass clippings or buy mulch from stores, you should always keep a three inch layer of mulch on all your beds to conserve water, maintain soil temperature and discourage weeds.

Grasscycling

Grasscycling means leaving grass clippings on the lawn to decompose into soil. This provides 60% of the nitrogen and all the phosphorous that your lawn needs.

For the healthiest lawn, you should mow your grass to the proper height, water only as needed, and fertilize with organic fertilizers as needed. For more information, about maintaining a healthy lawn, visit GrowGreen's web page about lawn care.

Garden Trenches and Planting Spots

Burying your organic waste is the simplest method of composting. Bury the kitchen scraps at least eight inches below the surface. Fill and cover the hole. This can become a planting space for a tree shrub. In the garden, lay organic materials in the valleys between rows. Cover over in the winter and use as planting rows next spring.

For more information, contact Solid Waste Services at 3-1-1 or by email.