Slashing is an older form of technology. Slashing initially leaves long lengths of grass, often in windrows, on top of the crop rather than on the soil surface. At this point it is adding no value in terms of organic material (mulch) availability to the soil. It is also affecting growth of plants directly underneath. In the case of a grazing pasture, it compromises availability of premium grass for stock to graze on. Mulching can maximise productivity per hectare, achieving a higher rate of meat on bones or litres in the vat.

Mulching as a practice has many advantages over slashing. Slashing creates windrows that can cause a fire hazard. During bushfire season, grass fires are inevitable, and are particularly dangerous as they can spread quickly. The taller and drier the grass, the more forcefully it will burn. The best method  to reduce the fire risk is mulching as it evenly distributes the bi-product, which decomposes quickly and doesn’t leave flammable windrows.