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Let The Mower Rest, It’s No Mow May

Bridgewater, NS, Canada / Country 100.7
Jonathan Crouse
May 2, 2022 | 7:58 AM


Let The Mower Rest, It's No Mow May

A Better Tripp Moving & Storage / CC

Happy May!
I wanted to say the weather is warming up, but that is not happening very quickly this year.
Even with the cooler temperatures, the grass is greening up and before too long there will be that urge to cut the grass.  I was actually told yesterday by our 3 year-old that the grass needs to be cut because it is “too long daddy”.
Well I am happy to see that I can put the chore of lawn mowing on hold for a month and no one will judge me.  The idea of “No Mow May” is being promoted again this year.  Basically you put off mowing to ensure that the wild flowers have a chance to grow and help the pollinators get an early start on their season.

No Mow May: Here’s why you shouldn’t mow your lawn this May

 

So that covers you for a few weeks.  Extra time to tweak the mower and get ready for the summer months, but eventually you will have to trim the lawn up a bit, or get a goat.
When we do get to the go time to mow, what are the rules?  Nothing set in stone when it comes to lawn care for sure, but here are the tips offered by the professionals.

  1. Mow high — Cut your grass to a height of 6 to 8 centimetres (2.5 to 3 inches). This height (instead of cutting shorter) will promote growth, prevent weeds, and discourage insect pests.
  2. Water deeply — Water your lawn deeply (but not too often) to promote the growth of deep roots. Apply about 2.5 centimetres (1 inch) of water, only when needed (usually no more than once a week). Place a small pet food or tuna can on the lawn to help you measure how much water has been applied. Stop watering when the can is full. Too much water starves the soil of oxygen and invites disease.
  3. Feed — Feed your lawn with compost. Let grass clippings stay on your lawn to provide nutrients.
  4. Aerate — Aerate compacted soil, ideally in the fall. This helps water, air, and nutrients reach plant roots more easily.
  5. Overseed — Sow new seed over thinned areas, or choose other ground covers for tough spots.
  6. Replace — Replace grass with paving stones or mulch in heavy traffic areas.
  7. Check — Check your lawn often to detect pests and other problems early.

Top tips for a healthy lawn

 

Now if the grass is not growing quick enough and you just want more mow time.  You could always check with the neighbors, most would not argue if you want to mow their lawn, haha.  Or you could go virtual to quench you thirst for cutting grass, you just miss out on the fresh cut grass smell.
Enjoy the break from mowing this month with No Mow May.