Bag clippings on the first mow then mulch thereafter

Bag the clippings from your first spring mow to remove dead winter debris, then switch to mulching for the rest of the season.

Why It Works

The first mow produces a mix of dead brown material and early green growth. Leaving this on the lawn can smother new grass. After the first cut, mulched clippings decompose quickly and return nitrogen and organic matter to the soil — the equivalent of one fertilizer application per season according to university research.

Tips

• If clippings ever form visible clumps during the season, disperse them with a rake or mow again.
• Mulching works best when you follow the one-third rule — shorter clippings decompose faster.