With warmer weather and sunny days well on their way, many of us are getting the urge to spend time outside, preparing for the long days of summer. As an avid gardener, that often means getting my hands dirty and imagining the birds, bees and butterflies that will soon pay my yard a visit.

While I’m looking forward to what late spring and summer will bring, I also know that patience is more important than preparation. Holding back on yard clean-up can help pollinators like bees and butterflies stay sheltered until the warmer days arrive.

With pollinators and gardening in mind, I’m delighted to tell you about a conservation initiative we recently adopted at the City of Kingston: No Mow May.

No Mow May is new to our City, but the movement has been gaining popularity around the world over the past few years and has been loyally supported by many organizations and individuals in our community.

The concept is simple. For the entire month of May, save your time and put down the lawn mower. Instead, allow your grass to grow and wildflowers to bloom. While this concept is simple, it can offer significant benefits to pollinators, like bees and butterflies, and ground-foraging birds that need a helping hand when food and habitat are scarce.

Support for the No Mow May movement was brought forward by Councillor Tozzo at a Council meeting earlier this year. Learn all about No Mow May in less than 60 seconds from Councillor Tozzo: 

Pollinators also play an essential role in supporting resilient communities by helping maintain plant populations and promoting climate change adaptation. By taking action to support pollinators, we can help ensure a sustainable and healthy future for ourselves and the planet.

If you plan to participate this year (and I hope you do!), please share the news with your friends, family and neighbours. More people participating means more resources for bees and early-season pollinators.

Another way you can show your support and spread the news is by putting up a No Mow May sign. Rotary Clubs are providing a limited quantity of Bee Friendly No Mow May signs — first come, first serve — to those who register. Learn how to request your own lawn sign.

Have an idea for a future blog? We want to hear from you. Reach out to ChangeForClimate@CityofKingston.ca to share your feedback and ideas.