It’s not often that you can do nothing at all and improve a situation. That’s exactly what British conservation charity Plantlife want us to do when it comes to our lawns this month. Let nature take its course, leave the mower and shears in the shed and put your feet up. Believe me, the bees, butterflies and hedgehogs will thank you for it!
A problem beyond borders
#NoMowMay originated in the UK in 2019. A shocking statistic is that the country has lost almost half of its biodiversity since the 1970s. Added to this, the UK has lost 97% of its wild meadows in recent years so we are passed the point of this being a critical issue. By taking small measures and embracing initiatives like No Mow May, we can make a difference.
The Emerald Isle
The idea has also taken root in Ireland with the National Biodiversity Data Centre partnering with An Post and sending a recyclable No Mow May postcard to more than 2 million households across the country. Worryingly in Ireland, one third of wild bees are threatened with extinction. The really sad thing is that this is due to hunger. There is simply not enough sustenance to support them in the natural landscape. In a country so famous for its rich green countryside and temperate climate, this is hard to believe.
A Swiss point of view
When it comes to biodiversity levels in Switzerland, it is also a stark picture. We may picture rolling wild meadows and crystal clear lakes, but biodiversity is not safe here. Staggeringly, a third of all species and half of all types of habitat in the country are under threat. Particular pressure comes from the reliance on pesticides and increased infrastructure.
What will start growing?
As you leave your lawn to rest, there is a chance of seeing daisies, dandelions and types of clover. Not to mention insects, butterflies and birds who will feed and be nourished by what grows when left idle. It’s never too late to start, if you only happen to learn about No Mow May now, take the learnings into next month, or keep the knowledge you have for next year. Other ideas are to stop using weed killer or to leave areas of your garden completely wild and rugged.
Don’t have a lawn?
I’m one of the group who does not have a garden but there is still a way to contribute and support pollinators! Try growing herbs like chives and oregano, or adding lavender plants and spring flowers to smaller outdoor spaces. I bet you will see new arrivals to your balcony, courtyard or window boxes soon enough! Here’s a few pots on our balcony that are welcoming hungry bees and birds.
Happy doing nothing…or very little at least this May! What a month of numerous Bank Holiday weekends is made for.