Lazy lawn care: What cutting the grass less can do for your yard, your wallet and the environment

Now that the growing season is in full swing, the sound of lawn mowers and the smell of freshly cut grass is everywhere.

But researchers at the University of New Hampshire are learning that cutting the grass less can actually do more for your yard, your wallet and the environment!

Alix Contosta is an assistant professor at UNH’s Earth Systems Research Center. She tells Boston 25 News, mowing your lawn every two weeks – instead of every week – is an easy way to allow wild flowers, dandelions, and clover to grow and attract critical pollinators, like bees and butterflies.

But what about ticks?

You may be thinking that letting your grass go for two weeks might attract them, but a separate study from the USDA Forest Service shows no difference between one-, two- and three-week mowing cycles.

And take a break from the rake!

Allowing your grass clippings to break down in moderation on your lawn keeps carbon in the soil where it belongs. Microorganisms break down that matter and convert it into nutrient-rich soil, which locks in carbon and feeds your lawn.

If you have the space and don’t want longer grass everywhere, consider setting aside a corner of your yard for wild growth. You’ll enjoy the change of wildflowers as the warm season progresses.

And with gas prices at all-time highs, who can complain about letting the mower est a little more this summer!

Of course, using less gas also reduces your carbon footprint.

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