With spring in full swing, no doubt your attention has recently turned to the garden. And, as May approaches, it’s likely that you have been hearing a lot about “No Mow May” and wondering whether or not you should stash away the lawnmower this month. Well, you’re not alone.
So, what exactly is No Mow May, and should you cut your grass in May? We’ve taken a look at this growing trend, which is said to be an easy way to boost biodiversity and create a healthier lawn, to find out more and answer your cutting questions.
What is No Mow May?
No Mow May is a national campaign launched by the charity Plantlife to encourage homeowners to let their lawns grow wild for the month of May. The goal is to allow wild plants like clover, daisies, and dandelions to bloom, offering vital food sources for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators early in the season.
Taking part in No Mow May can transform even a small garden into an important refuge for wildlife – and it requires minimal effort from you.
Can I Cut My Grass in May?
You can cut your lawn in May if necessary, but the spirit of No Mow May encourages you to let it grow freely. If you need to mow, consider only trimming essential areas such as footpaths, patios, or play spaces. Many participants choose to mow borders around their wild patches to maintain a neat appearance while still helping wildlife.
If you do mow, set your mower to a higher cutting height to protect emerging flowers and avoid damaging new growth.
Is No Mow May Good for My Lawn?
Yes, skipping your mowing routine for a few weeks can offer surprising benefits for your lawn:
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Healthier Grass: Longer blades shade the roots, helping soil retain moisture and promoting deeper root systems.
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Better Soil Quality: Organic matter builds up naturally, improving soil structure and health.
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Increased Resilience: Lawns with a diversity of plants are often more resistant to drought, pests, and diseases.
While your lawn might look a little wilder by the end of May, it’s easy to bring it back into shape with the right approach.
Tips for Cutting Grass After No Mow May
After a month of growth, you’ll want to take special care when mowing your lawn for the first time. Here’s how to do it safely:
How to Cut Grass After No Mow May:
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Mow in Stages: Reduce the height gradually, cutting no more than one-third of the blade length at a time. This avoids stressing the grass.
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Sharpen Your Blades: Dull mower blades tear the grass rather than cutting cleanly, making your lawn vulnerable to disease.
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Rake Before Mowing: Clear away leaves, sticks, and thatch to prevent mower jams and improve air circulation.
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Mulch the Clippings: If your mower allows, mulching the clippings returns valuable nutrients to the soil.
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Plan for the Future: You might fall in love with the natural look! Many gardeners now keep sections of their lawns as permanent wildflower areas, blending beauty with biodiversity.
Embrace a Greener Garden
Supporting No Mow May is an easy and impactful way to help the environment and improve your garden’s health. Whether you fully commit or simply let a small patch grow wild, every little bit helps.
If you’re looking for more Spring gardening tips, why not read our Spring gardening tips blog with RHS Chief Horticulturist, Guy Barter.
