ruohosilppuun

Ruohosilppuun, often translated as "grass shredding" or "grass mulching," refers to the practice of leaving finely cut grass clippings on the lawn after mowing. This technique is also known as mulching mowing. Instead of collecting the grass clippings in a bag, a mulching mower finely chops them into small pieces that are then dispersed back onto the lawn.

The primary benefit of ruohosilppuun is fertilization. As the grass clippings decompose, they release nutrients, primarily nitrogen, back into the soil. This acts as a natural fertilizer, reducing the need for synthetic lawn fertilizers. The decomposed clippings also help retain moisture in the soil, which can be beneficial during dry periods. Furthermore, the process can improve soil structure over time by adding organic matter.

For ruohosilppuun to be effective, the grass should not be cut too short, and clippings should not be allowed to accumulate in thick layers. Mowing frequently enough so that no more than one-third of the grass blade is removed at a time is recommended. This ensures that the clippings are small enough to break down quickly and do not smother the underlying grass. Overly long or wet clippings can lead to matting and potential fungal issues. Many modern lawnmowers are designed with mulching capabilities, featuring specialized blades and deck designs that facilitate this process.