In 2020, Appleton, Wisconsin, made headlines as the first U.S. city to officially adopt “No Mow May,” a movement encouraging residents to let their lawns grow wild during the month of May. The initiative aimed to support early-season pollinators by providing vital food sources.1
However, as the practice gained popularity, Appleton found itself navigating the delicate balance between ecological benefits and community standards. Now, the city is refining its approach, seeking to maintain the environmental advantages while addressing practical concerns.
The Birth of “No Mow May”
Inspired by a similar campaign in the United Kingdom, Appleton’s “No Mow May” quickly caught on, spreading to other Wisconsin cities like Hortonville and Oshkosh. The concept is rooted in the idea that allowing lawns to grow freely in spring provides essential resources for pollinators emerging from winter dormancy.
Research conducted in Appleton showed that No Mow May lawns had five times the number of bees and three times the bee species diversity compared to nearby parks that had been mowed.
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to address pollinator decline. More than 75% of the world’s flowering plants and about 35% of global food crops depend on animal pollinators to reproduce.(ref) By providing early-season food sources, No Mow May aims to support these crucial ecosystem contributors.
Growing Pains
As the movement gained traction, some challenges emerged. Overgrown lawns began to draw complaints from neighbors concerned about aesthetics and potential code violations.
Some residents are worried about increased tick populations and allergies from unmowed grass. Additionally, the abrupt transition from tall grass to short lawns at the end of May posed challenges for homeowners and their lawnmowers.
Finding a Balance
To address these challenges, Appleton is exploring ways to refine the No Mow May concept.
City officials are considering guidelines that would allow for participation while setting reasonable limits on lawn growth. This could include specifying a maximum grass height or encouraging homeowners to maintain a neat appearance around the edges of their property.
Some experts suggest a more nuanced approach to lawn care that extends beyond May, such as maintaining lawns at a slightly higher height (more than 3 inches) and mowing less frequently throughout the growing season. This approach can support a greater diversity of flowering plants and pollinators while maintaining a more manicured appearance.
The Bigger Picture
Despite the challenges, No Mow May has sparked a broader conversation about urban landscapes and biodiversity. Many cities across the country have followed Appleton’s lead, implementing their own pollinator-friendly initiatives. These efforts are part of a growing recognition of the importance of urban and suburban areas in supporting wildlife.
To maximize the benefits for pollinators, experts recommend complementing reduced mowing with other habitat-enhancing practices. This includes planting native flowering species, providing nesting sites, and reducing or eliminating pesticide use.
Organizations like Plantlife, which originated the No Mow May campaign in the UK, encourage an “Every Flower Counts” approach, where people survey their lawns to understand the nectar production and pollinator support their yards provide.
As cities like Appleton continue to refine their approach to No Mow May, the initiative serves as a valuable case study in balancing ecological goals with community needs. By adapting and evolving the concept, these communities are paving the way for more sustainable urban landscapes that benefit both people and pollinators.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.