No Mow May is a growing movement in Wisconsin and across the United States that encourages homeowners to leave their lawns uncut during the month of May. The initiative aims to promote biodiversity and sustainable landscaping practices by allowing native plants and wildflowers to grow and provide food and habitat for pollinators and other wildlife.

The idea behind No Mow May is simple: instead of mowing your lawn every week, let it grow wild and see what happens. By doing so, you are creating a mini-ecosystem that supports a variety of native plants and animals. Native plants, such as milkweed, black-eyed Susan, and goldenrod, are essential for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These plants provide food and habitat for these important species, which are critical for the health of our ecosystems and the food supply.

In addition to supporting biodiversity, No Mow May also promotes sustainable landscaping practices. Traditional lawns require a significant amount of water, fertilizer, and pesticides to maintain their appearance. By letting your lawn grow wild, you are reducing your water usage, minimizing the use of harmful chemicals, and cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions associated with lawn maintenance equipment.

No Mow May is also an opportunity to connect with your community and educate others about the benefits of sustainable landscaping practices. By participating in this initiative, you can share your experiences and knowledge with your neighbors, family, and friends, and inspire them to take action to promote biodiversity and sustainability in their own yards.

If you are interested in participating in No Mow May, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it is important to ensure that your municipality allows for uncut lawns, as some areas have regulations that require lawns to be maintained to a certain height. Second, it is important to be patient and observe what grows in your yard. Not all plants are desirable, and some may need to be removed to prevent them from becoming invasive. Finally, it is important to resume mowing your lawn in June to prevent the growth of weeds and unwanted plants.

No Mow May is a simple yet powerful initiative that promotes biodiversity, sustainability, and community engagement. By participating in this movement, you can make a positive impact on your local ecosystem and inspire others to do the same. Let your lawn grow wild this May and see what beautiful and beneficial plants and animals emerge!

 

Conservation Corner is a weekly article produced by the Forest County Land & Water Conservation Department. For more information contact Steve Kircher, County Conservationist-Land Information/GIS Director at 715-478-1387 or by e-mail at .