Yard Care Alternatives - Streets & Recycling Department

YARD CARE ALTERNATIVES

Madison's yard waste diversion programs divert over 25,000 tons of organic material from our landfill every year. However, this success does not come cheap. These programs cost $40 to $120 per ton for collection and composting. Most of this material could be diverted right in your back yard at almost no cost whatsoever.

You can compost all your yard waste. If you don't want to compost, there are some simple things you can do to save time and reduce the waste your lawn generates.

LEAVE GRASS CLIPPINGS ON THE LAWN:
Don't bag your grass clippings,instead leave them on the lawn where they will provide valuable nutrients. You don't need a mulching mower, just keep your blade sharp and mow more often according to these guidelines:

1. Let your grass grow 3 to 5 in height.

2. Cut the top one-third.

3. Water less frequently; longer grass has a deeper root system which retains moisture better.

4. Cut back on fertilizer. Tests show that you can reduce lawn feedings 25% when you leave clippings on the lawn.

Try bagging your clippings only every other or every third time--a 33% to 50% reduction in lawn waste represents a significant savings. You can also conduct your own comparison test on your lawn by bagging grass on half and mulching the other half.

USE GRASS CLIPPINGS AS MULCH:
If you bag your clippings, use them as a mulch in gardens or around the base of trees and shrubs. The clippings will suppress weeds, keep plant roots cool and moist and prevent soil erosion. Clippings will decompose quickly when used as a mulch.

PLANT LOW MAINTENANCE GROUND COVERS:
There are many plants that can replace grass, especially in the shade or for areas of your yard that you seldom use. Plants such as ground ivy can beautify your yard while reducing the waste it generates.