It is no secret; pollinators are absolutely essential, both for biodiversity and agriculture (and therefore for ourselves). Indeed, in Quebec, 40% of food products are dependent on the pollinators’ work. The equation is quite simple: without them, our plates would look very different… and not for the better.
The United Nations report that about 35% of pollinators are in danger of extinction. The loss of food sources, habitat destruction, pesticide exposure and diseases are the main causes explaining their decline (Nature Conservancy Canada). In the face of such bad news, what can be done? Fortunately, simple actions at the citizen level can be taken to significantly help bees, bumblebees, butterflies, bats and hummingbirds.
No Mow May (or Dandelion Challenge); benefits and limits
No Mow Day is a movement that began in the United Kingdom. It then made its way to us in the past few years, and we know it now as No Mo May or Dandelion Challenge. It simply means to keep the mower away throughout the month of May. The goal? Besides saving us time and effort and avoiding greenhouse gas emissions from mower use and other similar gas appliances, joining the movement also allows pollinators to enjoy the wild perennials that grow quickly in lawns, such as dandelions and white clover. Indeed, a vivid green, even and cut short lawn does not have any ecological value; it does not offer any possible shelter or food for pollinators. Also, it goes without saying that using pesticides directly harms biodiversity (Bee City Canada).
We must however remain cautious about No Mow May; wild perennials are not indigenous and represent a limited protein source for pollinators. This is why maintaining a biodiverse lawn with indigenous plants - with bright colors and strong scents, ideally – will have a more significant positive impact than simply sticking to No Mow May. Two very popular plant ideas are the Goldenrod and Milkweed (Bee City Canada).
Moreover, it is good to remember that, as the name indicates, No Mow May only targets one month; however, what about the rest of the year? Pollinators still need to sustain themselves! This is where a broader reflection is necessary. No Mow Monday is certainly a good start, but to go further than that, planting indigenous plants will be so much more beneficial in the long term. Be careful, though; avoid non indigenous plants considered to be invasive.
Relevant resources
Article by Courrier Laval (in French)
