Martin Services mulch-mows as the standard practice because it returns valuable nutrients to your lawn, but we bag clippings when conditions require it, such as heavy spring growth or leaf-covered fall lawns. Mulch-mowing — where finely cut grass clippings are dispersed back onto the lawn — is the preferred method for the vast majority of mowing visits. The practice is endorsed by turf professionals and university research because those clippings decompose quickly and return nitrogen, potassium, and other nutrients to the soil, effectively providing a free, slow-release fertilizer application with every cut. Martin Services uses commercial Scag mowers with mulching blades that cut clippings into tiny pieces that fall between the grass blades and disappear from view within a day.
When Mulching Works Best
Mulching works best when you are mowing regularly and removing no more than one-third of the grass blade height at each cut. On a weekly mowing schedule — which is what Martin Services runs throughout the growing season across Powassan, North Bay, and surrounding areas — the clippings are short enough to break down quickly without smothering the lawn. Research shows that a full season of mulch-mowing returns the equivalent of one complete fertilizer application to your lawn in recycled nutrients. Mulched clippings do not cause thatch buildup, despite the common myth — thatch is caused by excessive stem and root material, not grass blades, which decompose rapidly. The key is consistent weekly mowing so clippings stay short and fine.
When We Bag Instead
There are situations where bagging is the better choice, and our crews make that call based on conditions. In early spring, when grass has been dormant all winter and the first few mows produce heavy, wet clippings, we bag to prevent matting and smothering. During fall cleanups, when leaves mix with grass clippings, we bag the combined material to leave a clean surface heading into winter. We also bag when a lawn has gotten overgrown — if a property has been neglected and the grass is excessively tall, the volume of clippings from bringing it back to proper height would smother the lawn if left in place. With 35 years of experience, Martin Services uses the right approach for every situation to keep your lawn healthy and looking its best.
Want professional weekly mowing for your property? Call Martin Services at (249) 506-9211 for a free estimate on weekly lawn mowing. We can quote most jobs right over the phone — no waiting for a site visit.