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are grass clippings straight into the garden dangerous to plants?

I understand why you would want to compost grass clippings before returning them to the garden, but I dont understand why some garden experts actually say it is harmful?

Public Comments

1. "raw" clippings could introduce mold that would be harmful to plants.
2. They burn really hot.....literally. If you mow your own lawn ... the next time you cut it, take a basket -load of clippings and dump them in a waste bucket. Let it sit for a couple of hours. Then go and put your hand on the side of the waste bucket and see how hot it is. It's not going to burn you, but it would fry your plants.
3. there's a couple of reasons... first, those clippings will start to break down and to do so, they will require a boost from the nitrogen in the soil.... taking it away from the nearby plants..*and yes, once they are broken down, they give back the nitrogen, but in the mean time.......*..... this is if they are mixed into the soil, not if they are just used for mulch in a pathway between plants..... for sure not to be used where young tender plants are trying to get a good start.... the other thing is that grass clippings from your lawn may have herbicides on them from you fighting the weeds... and for sure, I'd never use clippings from someone else's lawn!.... who knows what weed or bug poisons they may have used???..... composting , yes, is the best way.....
4. It's only harmful if the grass has been treated with pesticides. Be sure you know the source of the clippings you're using.