Do you know that the secret to a green thumb is not just about growing plants but also collecting their manure? The use of grass can help maintain your garden’s fertility and also reduce waste.
But how do I get my hands on this valuable fertilizer?! Check out below!
Why are Grass Clippings Excellent for Garden?
Decomposed grass clippings contain 4% nitrogen, 1% phosphorus and 2 potassium which can be converted to organic fertilizer.
Even though they may not seem like much on their own, the microorganisms in soil thrive off of these nutrients as well!
1. Lawn Fertilizer
Save money by letting your lawn clippings do the work for you! It’s easy. Simply leave them on the grass and they will save up to 25% of fertilizer consumption.
But only leave grass clippings on the lawn if they are short, shorter pieces will break down faster. Mulching mode on your lawn mower is a great way to cut the grass into smaller pieces, so use it for cutting the grass into shorter pieces.
2. Grass Clippings Compost
You can’t make compost from only grass clippings, but it’s a great way to recycle them. In addition, if you mix in some other materials like leaves or sticks for example they will break down more quickly and the mixture won’t rot or smell as much!
The trick to a successful compost pile is using other organic waste such as leaves, twigs and shredded branches in proportion of about 1:1 or 2:1. You should add two parts grass clippings with one part dry organic matter.
In humid weather, especially in spring and fall it’s important to let your grass clippings dry for 1 or 2 days before putting them into the compost pile. Your finished product will be ready within 3 months with this step!
3. Grass Clippings for Mulch
The best way to get your weeds out is with the help of some weed killer. But if you haven’t used any chemical lately, use dried grass clippings for mulching in the garden instead!
Spread on 2-3 cm thick layer near the base of plants or grass clippings. The mulch keeps water closer to its source by limiting evaporation, which can be especially helpful in drought conditions!
Clipping your grasses to make mulch is an easy way to reduce the amount of work you have in spring. You can lay ¼ inches thick or less if it’s fresh, as this will allow them break down quickly before they begin rotting and smell up whatever garden space they’re sitting on (or even worse…mold).
Thicker layers made with older clippings are not only too wet but also invite mold growth–which doesn’t sound appealing at all!
4. Grass Clippings in Vegetable Garden
Nitrogen is essential for plants, especially those that need large amounts of it. Nitrogen-loving vegetables like lettuce and other green veggies benefit from the presence in grass because they are able to use its nutrients more efficiently!
The best way to use your grass clippings is by mulching them. The thick, moist layers of this material will be great for preventing weeds from growing in or around any planting you have going on at home!
5. Grass Clippings Slow Release Fertilizer
Not only are grass clippings an excellent source of nutrients for the garden, but they also have a long lasting effect. A single application can be sufficient to last through all winter without needing any additional input!
Incorporate 2 to 3 inches of grass clippings 6 inches deep in your garden soil. These added nutrients will help make up for any lack you may experience with general fertilization and work as an Eco-friendly source that’s also easy on the earth!
To prevent mixing weed seeds, take care not too mix different types together when incorporating them into planting beds or walkways.
6. Grass Clippings Liquid Fertilizer
If you want a liquid fertilizer that is 100% organic and effective, take grass clippings. The N-P-K level for this product is around 1 – 0.5 – 3.1
This means it has low levels of phosphorus but high potassium content as well! To make the ultimate “liquid green man” all one needs to do is fill up their bucket with 2/3 part fresh cuttings from your lawn or garden. Fill the bucket with water and close the lid. Let it steep for 3 days to make sure all nutrients are extracted from your clippings, then store in an easily accessible place!
Soak the plants thoroughly using this solution. Depending on how big of a plant you have, apply up to 1 quart for those in pots and half cup if they’re outside; make sure there’s no seepage at bottom holes before continuing with your watering schedule.
Tips & Warnings
- It is important to use only grass that has not been treated with herbicides.
- All of your yard’s grass clippings are precious! Make sure to collect only what you need for the garden, and don’t forget about other organic materials that can help combat bad smells in compost piles.
- Grass clippings are a great way to add more nutrients and organic matter in your compost pile. When used, they give off abundant heat that speeds up decomposition greatly!
- Fresh grass clippings have a C:N ratio of around 20:1, depending on the species and season. This can vary significantly from one type to another so it’s important for anyone who wants their lawn look green all year round!