top of page
Search

Time to Embrace “Slow Mow Summer”: Why It’s Time to Rethink “No Mow May”

“The process of discovery has always involved correcting mistakes, clarifying our understanding, and adding deeper shades of nuance.” (link) In that spirit, we at Sustainable Stillwater MN are ready to revisit an initiative we’ve previously championed: No Mow May.


Let’s be clear—this campaign was launched with good intentions. The idea was simple and compelling: pause mowing in May to allow dandelions and other flowering plants to bloom, providing early-season food and shelter for pollinators just waking from their winter slumber.


In 2023, Stillwater made headlines for formally supporting this movement, with the City Council voting unanimously to issue a No Mow May proclamation. For the first time, residents were encouraged to let their lawns grow freely for a full month—zoning rules suspended and dandelions (for once) welcomed.


But as more research emerges and the ecological reality of our landscapes comes into sharper focus, it’s clear the “no mow” approach, while catchy, may not be as beneficial as we’d hoped.


Why the Shift?


The core issue is what happens after May. When people fire up the mower on June 1 and cut down a month’s worth of growth—often reducing foot-high grass to two inches—it creates significant stress for the turf. This sudden shock not only weakens the lawn going into the hot summer months but also risks chopping up the very pollinators we set out to protect. And long clippings left behind can smother the grass or encourage fungal diseases.


Studies that once supported No Mow May have come under scrutiny, and some have even been retracted for inconsistent data. Additionally, the movement’s one-size-fits-all message didn’t account for regional differences, types of turfgrass, or the unintended consequence of encouraging invasive weeds or problematic wildlife (yes, even rodents).


All this has prompted a necessary pivot—one rooted in science, practicality, and the broader vision of sustainable landscaping.



Instead of abandoning the mower altogether in May and then compensating with a brutal cut, Slow Mow Summer promotes moderation and consistency. Think of it as the “meditation” of lawn care: slower, more intentional, and ultimately more beneficial to both people and pollinators.


Here’s what Slow Mow Summer looks like in practice:

  • Raise your mowing height to at least three inches and mow less frequently (every 2–3 weeks instead of weekly).

  • Avoid drastic cuts—never remove more than one-third of the grass height at a time.

  • Let clover, violets, and other flowering groundcovers thrive, especially in patches where turfgrass struggles.

  • Gradually replace parts of your lawn with native plants, meadows, or bee lawns that support biodiversity all season long.

  • Reduce turf area altogether by creating pollinator gardens or expanding flower beds.


It’s a win-win-win: less work in the summer heat, more habitat for beneficial insects, and a more resilient, beautiful yard.


Slow Mow with kids

We’re not abandoning the spirit of No Mow May—we’re simply adding nuance. As with many movements, evolution is essential. Slow Mow Summer is the next chapter in our effort to align local action with ecological wisdom. It recognizes that a thriving yard isn’t necessarily a pristine one and that meaningful change often comes in small, steady steps rather than big, performative leaps.


So here’s our invitation: This year, skip the mower a little more often, not just in May—but into the months beyond. Let nature show you what’s possible when we listen and adapt. Stillwater has already taken the first step. Now, let’s take the next.


Want to learn more about pollinator-friendly lawn practices and native alternatives? Stay tuned to Sustainable Stillwater MN’s blog and social channels for tips, inspiration, and upcoming workshops.


Let’s make this summer slower, wilder, and more alive.



Sources:


Comments

bottom of page