🌱 Monthly Seasonal Task: No Mow May – Give Your Lawn (and Nature) a Break 🌼
May is the month when gardens spring to life—and for once, we’re recommending a little less action. That’s right: it’s time to join the growing movement of No Mow May.
Put simply, No Mow May means letting your lawn grow freely throughout the month, skipping the usual trims to give nature a head start. While it might go against the grain of our well-manicured instincts, the results can be incredibly rewarding—for both your garden and the wildlife that calls it home.
Why Skip the Mow?
Letting your lawn grow for just one month can have a big impact:
- Boosts Pollinator Food Sources: Long grass allows wildflowers like clover, daisies, and selfheal to bloom—vital nectar sources for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
- Supports Biodiversity: A less closely cropped lawn creates shelter and habitat for insects, which in turn support birds and other small wildlife.
- Improves Soil Health: Giving grass a break from mowing can reduce compaction and help roots grow deeper, making your lawn more drought-resistant later in summer.
- It’s Less Work (For Now): One less task in your gardening calendar—spare time to focus on other gardening tasks, or simply, enjoy a bit more free time while doing your bit for the environment!
But Won’t It Make My Lawn Look Messy?
This is a very common concern, and we get it—most of us like a tidy-looking garden. But there are ways to enjoy the benefits of No Mow May without feeling like your lawn is running wild:
- Go for a Patchwork Approach: If you’re unsure about letting the whole lawn go, try leaving just a section unmown. It’ll still help pollinators while keeping the rest of your garden looking trim.
- Mow a Frame: Keeping a neatly mown border around your wild patch gives structure and shows it’s an intentional choice—not neglect.
- Embrace a Natural Look: A slightly wilder lawn isn’t messy—it’s alive. Those little pops of colour from wildflowers and the hum of bees are signs of a healthy, thriving space.
What Happens After May?
Come June, you don’t need to rush in with the lawnmower. Here’s how to move forward thoughtfully:
- Cut Back Gradually
Start by mowing on a higher setting, then lower it bit by bit over a few weeks to avoid shocking the lawn. - Remove Clippings
This prevents excess thatch and allows light and air to reach the grass base. - Assess & Plan
Noticed any interesting wildflowers? Or bare patches? This is the perfect time to evaluate your lawn’s condition and consider how you might blend more wildlife-friendly areas into your long-term garden design.
How We Can Help
At Garden Care, we’re passionate about gardens that thrive naturally—and beautifully. Whether you’re new to No Mow May or a seasoned wildlife gardener, we can support you with:
- Expert advice on creating a balanced lawn care schedule
- Designing and installing pollinator-friendly areas
- Helping you manage the transition from wild to tidy come June
- Ongoing garden maintenance tailored to your goals
🌿 Want to talk to our team about wildflower lawns, low-maintenance garden plans, or seasonal lawn care? Get in touch today—we’re just a call away.
