Why No Mow May Needs to Make a Comeback

Earth Day this year was all about the actions we can take as individuals to make a positive impact on our planet and work towards a more sustainable future. That’s why transitioning into No Mow May is a perfect way to keep the individual actions going.

What is No Mow May?

No Mow May was started in 2018 by a UK organization called Plantlife. It was started in an effort to promote the free growth of wildflowers and other lawn plants that can support wildlife and bees.

The concept is simple: Don’t mow your lawn for the month of May.

You can choose to not mow your entire lawn or not mow just a section of it. Either way the hope is that there will be wildflowers, dandelions, clover and other beneficial lawn plants that will provide food and habitats for bees and other wildlife.

Why No Mow May is important?

1. It supports early-season pollinators

Letting lawns grow provides essential nectar and pollen for bees and other insects emerging in spring, when food sources are scarce. Even common flowers like dandelions and clover play an important role in sustaining pollinators.

2. It boosts urban biodiversity

Longer grass creates habitat for insects, birds, and small mammals, increasing species diversity in urban and suburban areas. Having lawn areas of varying lengths can create habitats for different species. This helps rebuild ecosystems in places where natural habitats are limited.

3. It improves soil health

Allowing grass to grow longer strengthens root systems, which helps improve soil structure and water retention. Healthier soil supports microorganisms and reduces erosion over time. Research shows that less frequent mowing can contribute to more resilient urban soils.

4. It reduces carbon emissions

Skipping mowing cuts down on fuel use from gas-powered lawn equipment, which are surprisingly high emitters of greenhouse gases and air pollutants. The United States Environmental Protection Agency notes that small engines (like lawn mowers) contribute significantly to urban air pollution. Even one month of reduced mowing can make a measurable difference.

5. It conserves water

Longer grass helps shade the soil, reducing evaporation and allowing moisture to be retained for longer periods. This means lawns require less frequent watering, especially during warmer months. Guidance from lawn and water conservation research shows that taller grass “reduces the soil temperature” and slows evaporation, helping conserve water.

Where to learn more about No Mow May

Here are some resources to learn more about No Mo May, plus a few blog posts about how your yard and garden can be used to prevent climate change.

1. Everything You Need to Know About No Mow May and the No Mow Movement  – Frequently asked questions, history, and how to participate.

2. 6 Ways to Join No Mow May with no Garden – You don’t need a lawn to participate! There are still small steps you can take to support the movement.

3. Just Say No to No Mow May – A different perspective on No Mow May and some food for thought.

4. How Your Garden Helps the Planet: Lawns – A closer look at lawns and how your garden can help the planet.

5. 6 Reasons not to Rake your Leaves this Fall – Looking ahead this is another small action you can do to help the planet.

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