No Mow May growing for bees and butterflies
If you recall a year ago, you may remember seeing for the first time quite a number of lawns that were growing seemingly out of control throughout May. That is precisely the idea behind No Mow May. When it comes to what is best for wildlife and nature in general, messy is usually better than neat and tidy.
Our modern society has evolved to the point that we North Americans have generally grown-up thinking that homes and other buildings should be surrounded by perfectly coiffed lawns and gardens. As a result, when the spring heat and moisture causes lawns to start growing in May, many of us are quick to get the mower out to trim the grass back to a specific height. No Mow May is all about keeping the mower in the garage or basement during May.
The reason why May is significant for the non-mowing time is that our very important pollinators are coming out of hibernation and in need of nourishment. Most wildflowers are not yet in bloom in early May, so when lawn plants are permitted to flower after a week or two of undisturbed growth, they provide a valuable source of food and energy for pollinators such as bees, butterflies and moths.
Without a healthy population of pollinators, all living beings that are dependent on plants, crops and animals for food would be in dire straits. The pollinators’ struggle has been worsening in recent decades as we further develop, clear, pave, and infill natural areas that contain wildflowers and plants.
Besides the social pressures to keep a perfect lawn, there is also increasing and improper use of pesticides that can have negative biodiversity consequences.
A comprehensive study by the University of Quebec – Trois Rivieres, revealed that mowed lawns are manufactured ecosystems with low biodiversity and resilience. These two elements of nature are critically important for the cycle of life to function well. The level of biodiversity was demonstrated to worsen as the intensity of lawn mowing increases. Lawns that are mowed more frequently are linked to a decrease in the number of invertebrates and have less plant diversity, while the presence of pests and invasive species increases.
Anyone who has left their lawn un-mowed for weeks knows that a variety of plants show up and go to flower, often creating a nice mix of colours and textures. However, this means that one has to move past the idea that grass-only is best in one’s lawn. Dandelions are great in many ways. Bees love them, as do other pollinators. We humans can enjoy dandelions in green salads, and wine making, among other things.
When one considers the cumulative impact of all the homeowners that mow their lawns in early spring, it adds up to a huge amount of lost pollinator habitat.
The UTR study, led by Dr. Chris Watson, indicated that even a modest reduction in lawn mowing frequency can provide a lot of environmental benefits, including: increased number of pollinators, increased plant diversity, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. As well, a longer, healthier lawn makes it more resistant to pests, weeds, and drought.
Each year, an increasing number of property owners, municipalities - such as Fredericton, and organizations, are choosing to at least delay the start of lawn mowing season until after May to give pollinators much needed help and habitat. Although it takes a while to turn around a cultural norm such as spring lawn mowing, let’s hope that this increasing participation trend continues in the future.
Remember, each blade of grass on our lawns does not have to be perfectly manicured. In fact, in the natural world for the benefit of wildlife, the messier the better.