Sign up for the next level of STIGA expertise
- Maintenance tips & tricks
- 4-season garden care advice
- News from the gardening world
- STIGA innovations & new product launches
Mulching pros and cons
Mulching mowers provide around 30% of the nutrients your grass needs to thrive. But is a mulching mower always the smartest choice? In this article, we explore the pros and cons of mulching – so you can make the right decision for your lawn.
.jpg)
PROS OF MULCHING
1) It saves you energy
A mulching mower does all the work for you, effortlessly cutting and spreading clippings to provide a free natural fertiliser for your lawn. So, once you finish mowing, you can get straight on with your other favourite gardening tasks – or simply relax and revel in the beauty of your garden.
2) It saves money
Because mulching mowers automatically spread the grass they cut, no bags are required to collect the cuttings and you no longer have to organise grass disposal. You also save money on fertiliser as the grass cuttings are a completely free way to add essential nutrients back into your lawn.
3) It increases soil fertility
Mulching mowers create more organic matter which increases soil fertility. The nutrients in grass clippings improve soil quality which feeds micro-organisms and earthworms. This improves water retention and cultivates a thriving ecosystem for healthy grass.
CONS OF MULCHING
1) Avoid mulching if your lawn has weeds
It is best not to use a mulching mower if weeds are growing in your lawn, as you run the risk of spreading weed seeds all over your garden. Be sure to remove weeds before mowing, or bag up and dispose of grass cuttings after you finish.
2) Avoid mulching if your grass has parasites
Do not mulch if your lawn is suffering from parasites as this can spread disease. Wait until the infestation has cleared or bag up and dispose of grass cuttings after you mow.
3) Avoid mulching if the grass is too long
Mulching mowers perform best when mowing is frequent. If you mow when the grass is too long, a high density of clippings gets left on the soil surface. Long clippings block vital air flow between the soil and the atmosphere, and slows down water infiltration.
Preparing your lawn for its first mow of the season
The lawn expert
February is the perfect time to devote some attention to your lawn after its long winter rest. But before your first mow of the year, it’s important to prepare the grass and remove any obstacles. Read our guide on how to protect your lawn and safeguard your mower.
