As you can probably tell by now, the overarching theme of my blog is health. Financial health, physical health, etc. I even talk about random things like the health of your yard! Yes, there is research out there that links green spaces and landscapes with improved overall health, including mental health, and this is really no surprise. Being able to look at lush, thick green grass is something that can help anyone relax. I might be odd, but I actually like mowing and trimming my yard, and take pride in it looking good. So, when it comes to lawn care, one popular question is deciding between side discharge vs mulch methods when it comes to cutting your grass. Both methods have their advantages and drawbacks, which can make it difficult to determine the best choice for your lawn.
Side discharge is a common choice among homeowners, as it is often the default setting on most lawn mowers. On the other hand, mulching is the preferred method for many lawn care professionals. So what is the best way? In this blog post, we will explore these two popular methods, their pros and cons, and help you make an informed decision that suits your lawn’s needs.
How Is a Mulching Mower Different Than a Side Discharge Mower?
When it comes to side discharge vs mulch lawn mowers, there are many different types and each has its own set of features and benefits. In this section, we will discuss the differences between a mulching mower and side discharge mower, two of the most commonly used types of mowers.
What Is a Mulching Mower?
A mulching mower is designed to cut grass into very small pieces. These small pieces of grass are then left on the lawn to act as a natural fertilizer. Mulching mowers come equipped with special blades. These mower blades typically they have a curved mulching blade, which cuts the grass more finely than other types of mowers. There is no opening for discharging the lawn cuttings.
Below we list the main benefits and drawbacks of a mulching mower.
Benefits of a Mulching Mower
When it comes to lawn maintenance, mulching mowers are becoming increasingly popular. They offer great benefits, including acting as a fertilizer and leaving less mess behind, especially if you have a small lawn. Here are some of the benefits that make mulching mowers so appealing:
1) Serves as a Fertilizer
As mentioned above, one of the primary benefits of using a mulching mower is that it can serve as a natural fertilizer and promotes the health of your lawn. As the mower cuts the grass, it chops it into fine pieces that are left on the ground. These pieces are naturally high in nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for healthy grass growth. Over time, these pieces decompose and release their nutrients into the soil, promoting healthy lawn growth. And, for you frugal people out there, this means less fertilizer you have to go buy at the hardware store throughout the summer!
2) Needs Less Cleanup Afterwards
Another benefit of using a mulching mower is that it leaves less mess behind. Unlike traditional mowers that leave clumps of grass on the lawn, a mulching mower cuts the grass into fine pieces that are left behind as organic mulch. This means you don’t have to worry about raking or bagging the clippings, which can save you a lot of time and effort.
3) Safer Than Side Discharge
Using a mulching mower is also safer than using a side discharge mower. With a side discharge mower, the blades can throw debris and rocks, which can be dangerous if they hit someone or something. With a mulching mower, the blades are designed to cut the grass into small pieces and keep them on the ground. This means you don’t have to worry about debris flying around as you mow.
4) Makes the Grass Look Lush
Mulching mowers are also a great way to help your lawn look lush and healthy. As the mower cuts the grass into fine pieces, it creates a natural layer of mulch that helps retain moisture in the soil. This can help your grass grow thicker and healthier, giving your lawn a lush, green appearance.
Drawbacks to a Mulching Mower
1) Not Good for Wet or Long Grass
While mulching mowers offer many benefits, they are not suitable for all types of grass. Wet grass or long grass can clog the mower’s blades, making it less effective. In these cases, it’s best to use a side discharge mower that can handle the extra volume of grass.
In conclusion, mulching mowers offer a range of benefits, including acting as a natural fertilizer, leaving less mess behind, and promoting healthy lawn growth. While they may not be suitable for all types of grass, they are a great choice for many homeowners looking for an easy and effective way to maintain a healthy lawn.
What Is a Side Discharge Mower?
Side discharge mowers are designed to cut grass and then either bag the cut clippings or throw them out from the sides. These mowers have more standard blades, with a straight cutting edge, and some blades having a smaller curve at the end. Side discharge mowers are perhaps the best option for mowing large areas quickly. So what are the benefits and drawbacks to them?
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Benefits of Side Discharge
Side discharge mowers are a popular choice for cutting wet, long grass and covering a large area. In this section, we will discuss the characteristics of side discharge mowers and their benefits and drawbacks.
1) Mows Large Areas Quickly
One of the biggest advantages of side discharge mowers is that they can cover large yards quickly. This is because they have a wide cutting deck and can cut a lot of grass in one pass. This makes them ideal for large lawns, parks, and fields.
2) Can Be Beneficial for Composting if Bagged
Side discharge mowers also come equipped with a bag that allows to catch the grass clippings. Many use these clippings in their compost pile or flower beds. Using grass clippings in a compost pile is a great method for getting your compost pile going as long as you put in the right mix of greens and browns. While this will turn into a great compost and fertilizer over time, many also find it beneficial to add grass clippings to their flower beds or gardens as it can act as a natural weed barrier.
3) Works Even on Wet and Tall Grass
Unlike other types of mowers, side discharge mowers can cut wet and tall grass with ease. This is because they have a powerful engine and a wide cutting deck that can handle tough grass conditions.
4) Less Frequent Mowing Needed
Since side discharge mowers can cut a lot of grass in one pass, they require less frequent mowing. This is ideal for homeowners who want to spend less time mowing their lawns and more time enjoying them.
Drawbacks of Side Discharge
1) Side Discharge Is Very Messy
One of the biggest drawbacks of side discharge mowers is that they can be an unsightly mess. They throw grass clippings out of the side of the mower, which can leave a trail of lawn clippings all over. This can be a problem for homeowners who want a neat and tidy lawn.
2) Waste of Grass Clippings
Another drawback of side discharge mowers is that they waste grass clippings. Unlike mulching mowers that can turn grass clippings into natural fertilizer for the lawn, side discharge mowers simply throw the clippings away. This can be a waste of valuable resources and nutrients for the lawn.
Overall, side discharge mowers are a powerful and efficient choice for cutting large areas of grass quickly. However, they can be messy and wasteful, which may not be ideal for homeowners who want a neat and tidy lawn.
3) Can lead to Weed Seeds
Many may not think about it, but when you just blow your grass clippings, it can spread the growth of weed seeds. I have seen this first hand. In the yard of my parent’s house growing up, I remember my neighbor has bermuda grass in their front yard and we had fescue. The neighbors would always blow their grass clippings into our yard. Over time, the bermuda started taking over our front yard and once it got going was a mess. Our climate was not ideal for this grass, so half of our front yard was alive and half appeared dead by mid-summer. Not cool at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should You Mulch Every Time You Mow?
In my opinion, it is a good idea to mulch most of the time, as it can provide your lawn with essential nutrients that promote growth and a healthier lawn. Mulching mowers cut the grass into smaller pieces that decompose quickly, allowing the nutrients to be absorbed by the soil and the grass. However, it is also good to collect clippings for compost if you are into that. Compost allows for natural organic matter over time which can be great for flower beds.
Do You Have To Mow Slower When Mulching?
It is ideal to mow at a slower speed when mulching to ensure that the grass is cut evenly and finely. This will provide better results for your lawn, and the clippings will be distributed more evenly across the grass.
Will Mulching Weeds Spread Them?
Mulching weeds will not spread them, as long as the weeds have not gone to seed. Mulching mowers cut the grass into very small pieces, which will smother any weeds and prevent them from growing. However, if the weeds have gone to seed, it is best to bag them and dispose of them properly to prevent their spread.
Why Does My Mulching Mower Leave Clumps Of Grass?
Mulching mowers may leave clumps of grass if the grass is too long or too wet. It is important to mow your lawn regularly and at the proper height to avoid this issue. Additionally, sharpening the blades of your mower can also help to prevent clumping.
It is important to note that while mulching can provide many benefits to your lawn, it may not be suitable for all situations. For example, if your lawn has not been mowed for a long time, it may be better to use a side discharge mower first to prevent clumping. As always, consult with a professional if you have any questions or concerns about your lawn care routine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between side discharge vs mulch mowers, there is no best method or one-size-fits-all answer. Both methods have their pros and cons, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your lawn. Mulching is a great option for those who want to save time and money while also promoting a healthy lawn. Side discharge, on the other hand, is ideal for those who prioritize speed and convenience. Whichever method you choose, remember to always prioritize safety and proper maintenance of your lawn mower.
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