[CH3NO2]

Is there a set of conditions when it is advisable not to return clippings? Or should it be done all the time. Should one hold off when its hot and/or humid, or when it is cool and less microbial activity to break down the clippings?

 

[ales_gantar]

I just started to return clippings, but then stopped, because I have fungus. My lawn.

 

[Fronta1]

Is there a set of conditions when it is advisable not to return clippings? Or should it be done all the time. Should one hold off when its hot and/or humid, or when it is cool and less microbial activity to break down the clippings?

Many reasons: if you have weeds that have gone to seed, if you have or are developing a fungus, if you have a lot of thatch, if there has been a lot of rain and you want to increase the airflow to avoid a fungus, for your last mow before winter, or if you are resending, overseeding, dethatching or leveling. But keep in mind that if none of the above scenarios apply, it is the most efficient way to increase your soil's om.

 

[g-man]

^ what he said. To me the rule is always to mulch mow unless one of the reasons stated above. The clippings return some nitrogen and phosphorus into the soil plus organic matter (OM). It is also faster to mow since you don't need to stop to empty the bag.

 

[phil]

And one other reason is if you let your grass grow too tall and want to avoid leaving clumps when you finally mow. I typically don't allow that to happen, but with rain days and work trips, family vacations, etc it does from time to time and then I bag. Some mowers are better than others with very tall grass, of course, so YMMV