No Mow May – the impact in action!
Since our last update on 'No Mow May', the difference in Hotham Park is already clear. An area left to grow naturally this month has come alive - not just visually, but audibly too. The increased buzz of insects and birdsong compared to earlier in the month highlights how quickly wildlife can benefit when spaces are allowed to flourish undisturbed.
No Mow May isn't just about appearances - it plays a vital role in supporting local wildlife. Allowing grass and wildflowers to grow provides vital food sources for pollinators like bees and butterflies at a time when they need it most. These insects, in turn, help support the wider ecosystem, including birds and small mammals that rely on them for food and shelter. Longer grass also offers a safe haven for insects to breed, helping populations recover after the colder months.
By giving nature a little space to thrive, even temporarily, we can help boost biodiversity, improve soil health and create a healthier environment for both people and wildlife to coexist and flourish.
You can continue to support local wildlife throughout the summer by letting parts of your lawn grow a little longer ...
As we move into June and beyond, many pollinators such as bees, butterflies and hoverflies are at their most active. By allowing grass and wildflowers to keep growing, you extend the supply of nectar and pollen that these species rely on to feed, reproduce and thrive.
Even a small unmown area can have a significant impact. A patch of longer grass, a strip along a fence, or a corner left to grow naturally can provide valuable food sources, shelter and breeding spaces for insects. In turn, these insects support birds, bats and other wildlife, helping to strengthen the wider food chain.
Longer grass also creates a more varied habitat. Different plant heights and species provide places for insects to hide from predators, lay eggs and take shelter during hot weather. Over time, this helps increase biodiversity in your garden and across the district.
There are environmental benefits too. Longer grass can help retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for watering during dry spells, while deeper roots improve soil structure and resilience.
With over 20 million gardens across the UK, small actions add up. By continuing the spirit of No Mow May through the summer, residents can play a key role in helping wildlife recover and thrive in Arun.