Grasscycling

The Township of Livingston is encouraging residents to “Grasscycle” when mowing the lawn. Grasscycling - recycling grass clippings - is beneficial for residents and for the environment. Read the full press release (PDF).

What is Grasscycling

Grasscycling is the natural recycling of grass by leaving clippings on the lawn when mowing. Grass clippings decompose quickly, returning valuable nutrients into the soil.

Why Grasscycle

Grass clippings are a major part of New Jersey’s municipal solid waste stream. You should grasscycle for the following reasons:

  • It’s easy! Just leave the grass clippings on your lawn.
  • It can save you time and money.
  • You’ll save 20% to 25% of your mowing time because you won’t have to stop and empty your lawnmower bag.
  • You won’t have to spend money on yard waste bags.
  • You fertilize your lawn for free as you cut it.

How it Works

  • Mow your lawn when the grass is dry.
  • Keep mower blades sharp.
  • Follow the “1/3 rule” - mow often enough so that no more than 1/3 the length of the grass blade is cut in any one mowing.
  • Mulching mowers cut the clippings into fine pieces that slip easily down to the soil. Most new mowers are mulching mowers, and you can attach mulching equipment to your current mower.
  • If you miss a week of mowing or rain causes faster growth, you can: mow the top 1/3 of the grass every two days until you reach the desired height; add heavy clippings to your garden as mulch; mix clippings into the soil; or compost the grass.
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Grasscycling Infographic

Lawn Health Tips

Water your lawn only in the early morning or later evening to avoid excessive evaporation, and water infrequently to let the grass develop a strong root system. Livingston’s water conservation ordinance (PDF) restricts lawn watering to three days per week, in the morning/evening depending on type of sprinkler.

Do not over-fertilize. Apply smaller quantities of fertilizer more frequently. Grasscycling makes lawns greener and healthier, decreases yard waste, reduces the need for fertilizers, and helps the environment.