“2020 was the driest May since 1896, resulting in a drop of 19% of lawn flowers. These extremes in temperature are becoming more common and can have a serious impact on early emerging pollinating insects” says Nicola Simpson, GWT Engagement Manager.

Together, the UK's gardens are larger than all national nature reserves combined making them a lifeline for wildlife, especially as the climate changes.

Leaving areas of lawn uncut throughout the spring and summer or cutting parts on a monthly basis can allow a greater diversity of plants to flourish, which in turn supports ore insects, birds and other species.

120 wooden butterfly signs have been made by a dedicated GWT volunteer before being decorated by children from three local primary schools in engagement sessions.

We're asking local Gloucester residents to take part in three key ways:

• Abandon the mower and leave it in the shed for the next few months and enjoy a garden buzzing with insects.
• Sign up to GWT’s WilderGlos digital platform and receive 100 points for each week the no mowing continues.
• Enter the No Mow May competition to win your own decorated butterfly stake to put in the garden and spread the word about the campaign.

It's not just individuals or families that can take part - local groups, landowners and farmers can also get involved.

“The grass has been left long in the Clocktower Park for several years now, in order to make the park a better home for nature. The No Mow May signs are important as they let members of the public know that there is a positive reason for not mowing. It isn’t lack of care for the park, more that we care deeply about managing our green spaces in ways that help nature to thrive.” said Cate Williams, facilitator of the Green Abbey group.

Links to our competition, more details on how to take part and links to a digital download of our free signs can be found below.

Don't mow, let it grow!

Gloucester Green Spaces Group includes Friends of Robinswood Hill, Alney Island, Barnwood Arboretum, Gloucester Park, Hucclecote Green, Armscroft Park and Saintbridge Ponds, Green Abbey, Kingsway Wildlife and Sustainability Group, Podsmead Big Local, Tuffley Environmental Group planters and the Rose Garden.