How to Convert Leaves & Grass Cuttings Into Mulch
- 1). Set your lawn mower's cutting height so it will remove one-third of the grass height when you mow. This encourages healthy grass and the generation of a strong root system. If you have a bagging lawn mower, keep the bag on.
- 2). Mow your grass as usual, on a dry day so the clippings don't clump. Remove the mower bag and empty the clippings into a pile near your garden. If you do not have a bagging mower, rake up the clippings into a pile near the garden.
- 3). Spread the dead leaves you've collected into a thin layer on the lawn. Make the layer 1 inch thick. Run over the leaves with your lawn mower, making repeat passes until you have cut them into dime-sized pieces. Rake up the leaves into a separate pile next to the clippings.
- 4). Mix the leaves and grass clippings together at a ratio of 2 parts leaves to 1 part grass clippings. Spread the mulch over the garden soil in a layer up to 2 inches thick. Do not make it thicker than that, or the grass clippings may block air circulation and sunlight.
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