The Truth about “No Mow May” (and What You Can Do to Help Pollinators Instead)

Here at Weed Man, we strive to be a friend to pollinators, and we’re so glad that you do too! Around this time of year, you may hear about a trending initiative called “No Mow May.” “No Mow May” is thought to provide food, habitats, and biodiversity for bees and other pollinators by–you guessed it–not mowing your lawn for the month of May. However, the reality is that letting your lawn and weeds grow long may not help the pollinators as much as we might hope. The good news is that there are plenty of other ways we can make our outdoor spaces more habitable to pollinators.

GRASS AND WEEDS ARE NOT QUALITY FOOD SOURCES FOR POLLINATORS

The truth is that the turfgrass used in North American lawns does not provide an adequate food source for bees and other pollinators. Bees get their nutrition from pollen and nectar, which turfgrass cannot provide in adequate quantities, no matter how long the grass grows. In fact, bees often avoid grass pollen because of its low nutritional value. Common weeds that pop up in our lawns aren’t the best food sources either. Dandelions, for example, are not native to North America and lack the necessary amino acids that would provide a nutritious food source for native bees. This means that a month of grass and weed growth for the duration of “No Mow May” won’t really help our native pollinators thrive. 

BETTER FOOD SOURCES FOR POLLINATORS

Instead of participating in "No Mow May," you can make a bigger difference for pollinators by filling your gardens and flower beds with native plants that are known to support pollinators. You’ll want to do some research to find out exactly which varieties are best suited to your region, but here are some nutrient-dense flower varieties that will also liven up your backyard space with pretty colors!

• Milkweed

• Sunflowers

• Foxglove

• Coneflower

• Dahlia

• Marigold

And it’s not just flowers. Pollinators like herbs too! Here are some garden plants that are nutritious and delicious for both you and your pollinator friends!

• Lavender

• Rosemary

• Basil

• Mint 

• Sage 

• Thyme 

• Chives 

• Dill

• Oregano