Green Intentions?

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That’s the natural recycling of grass by leaving clippings on the lawn after mowing. Use a mulching mower to allow them to decompose and return the nutrients back to the soil. Mow when your grass is dry and no more than 3- to 4 inches high, and mow more often, about every five days, during growing season. But don’t mow when grass is less than 2 inches high or you’ll prevent the blades from reaching the level they need to create chlorophyll for food.

Don’t fertilize too much

If you’re grasscycling, your lawn requires 15 percent to 20 percent less fertilizer. Plus, you’ll have less of it being washed down the storm drains and ultimately to water sources.

Don’t overwater

During hot summer days, most people think they need to water their lawn daily for 10 minutes or so. Instead, water three times a week for 20 to 30 minutes, which will allow the root system to really soak it up and get stronger.

Create compost

Your dead clippings can make your garden more vibrant. Most municipalities offering green-waste programs also offer composting workshops and sell compost containers. It’s an easy process and, when well managed, a compost pile won’t stink or attract bugs. To prevent both, water it during dry periods and churn your pile weekly to let it “breathe.”

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