How to Compost Lawn Clippings

Lawn clippings (cut grass) can break down--or decompose--and turn into rich and organic soil. However, lawn clippings make a better compost if they are mixed with other natural things such as wood chips and leaves that also decompose. Lawn clippings can be composted in a traditional compost pile or directly on your lawn.

Mower

Rake

Lawn clippings

Compost

Dry leaves or wood chips

Set your mower on the highest setting (at least 2 inches) and mow your grass often so that only an inch of lawn clippings is being distributed.

Spread the lawn clippings directly on your lawn. Remember, the clippings should be no longer than an inch and the remaining grass should still be at least 2 inches high after cutting. The lawn clippings will decompose and add valuable nutrients to your lawn. Some mowers can evenly spread the clippings for you. Otherwise you will have to use a rake to evenly spread the cut grass after mowing.

Rake or use a lawnmower with a collection bag to gather your lawn clippings. Do this if you are collecting all your lawn clippings for composting or if the cut grass is more than an inch in length.

Add the grass clippings to the top of your compost pile. Only pile it on an inch thick since too much grass clippings can secrete a foul smell. You can also mix it with equal parts or twice as much wood chips or dry leaves before throwing it on top of your compost pile.

Alternatively, mix in the lawn clippings into your compost pile. There should be at least equal parts of existing compost and lawn clippings.