Are Grass Cuttings Good for Fruit Trees?

Method of Use

• Place grass clippings around the tree in a 3- to 4-foot radius. Make sure clippings are pulled at least a foot away from the trunk to allow for proper watering. Start applying the clippings in a thin layer and let the layer dry before adding the next layer. Since grass clippings decompose rapidly, the mulch has to be replenished on a regular basis, preferably every week when you mow the lawn. The recommended depth of grass clipping mulch is about 6 inches, cites Stu Campbell in "Mulch It!".

Use Suggestions

• Avoid creating a thick layer of fresh grass clippings around the tree, as it will compact, mat and start to rot. The thick matted layer will prevent the flow of air and water to tree roots and will prove more damaging. Also, do not use as mulch any clippings from grass that has been treated with herbicide. Wait at least four weeks after herbicidal treatment before using the clippings as mulch in any landscape area.

Advantages

• The use of organic mulches like grass clippings serves a number of important functions such as lowering the rate of evaporation from the soil. This helps to reduce water use by 25 to 50 percent. The activity of microorganisms in soils with organic mulch increases, which in turn helps to improve tilth and reduces compaction in soil. Weed emergence is discouraged in mulched soil and soil temperatures are moderated. The use of mulch also serves an aesthetic function; it helps to give a more finished look to the landscape area.

Disease Reduction

• Applying a layer of inorganic or organic mulch under fruit trees also helps to reduce chances of fungal infection in fruit trees, cites Mary Horsfall in "Fabulous Food for Every Small Garden." Fruit trees are prone to a number of fungal disorders, such as brown rot, peach rust, freckle, verticillium wilt or curly leaf. The main mode of disease transmission is through the splashing fungal spores. The use of mulch under trees minimizes this splashing and consequent spread of the disease-causing spores.