Instead of buying mulch can I just use grass clippings? It's more like hay actually, I put some around my fig trees and a few of my other fruit trees, I just want to make sure I'm not doing more harm then good.

I can't see how it can do any harm. I put grass clippings around two of my in ground and they're doing good.
When the clippings decay they make good compost and they keep weeds from growing. It's a win win situation

Thanks, I just searched the same question and its been asked before and no one really had anything bad to say about it.

Be careful, though.  As grass clippings rot they can form a virtually water tight seal - they can act as a water barrier rather than a weed barrier.

Andrew

It's good as long as you let the grass dry before putting it around your tree.  Also, don't use any clippings that have been treated with weed and feed or insecticides.

It is OK to use grass clippings but keep them away from the bark. When they touch the bark, it rots (as the clippings compost, they generate heat)and the tree might die.

And they'll use nitrogen as they decompose then release it back in to the soil.  Your figs may need extra nitrogen initially.

Ok thanks everyone, there is a little more to it then I initially thought, but I should be fine, I appreciate the insight.