Thatch is not good. It provides a favorable environment for insects and disease problems and can impede movement of water into the soil. Each bag of clippings you throw away contains up to one-quarter pound organic nitrogen that could be used by your lawn. Keep your mower blades sharp. Dull blades tear leaves instead of cutting them, effectively lowering your mowing height.
Ragged cuts produce a ragged appearance and increases the possibility of disease.
Mowing your lawn properly produces a thicker, healthier lawn that requires less fertilizer and water. It also results in a lawn that is more competitive with weeds, insects and diseases. The author is a Bay County horticulture agent with the University of Florida Extension Service. For questions or comments, contact the Extension Service at 784-6105.