A recent survey of a roadside verge in Hunt's Cross, Liverpool, has revealed an impressive 21 species of wildflowers thriving thanks to the city council's observance of No Mow May. Among the finds were cuckoo flower, yarrow, and common ragwort, the host plant for cinnabar moth caterpillars.
No Mow May Initiative
Launched by Plantlife in 2019, No Mow May encourages local authorities and residents to refrain from mowing roadside verges and lawns during May to allow wildflowers to bloom and support pollinators. With 97% of flower-rich meadows in the UK lost since the 1930s and 41% of insect species facing extinction, the initiative aims to boost biodiversity.
Liverpool City Council adopted a verge management strategy of reduced mowing regimes in response. However, not everyone is pleased; some residents have taken to mowing the verges themselves. Last May, a mowing team arrived before the month ended, destroying ragwort plants and their caterpillar inhabitants, an incident that remains unexplained despite inquiries to the relevant councillor.
This Year's Success
This May showed promise when the mowing team arrived in mid-April. After a few weeks, a survey of the verges revealed 21 species, including dandelions, daisies, white clover, shepherd's purse, common chickweed, spear thistle, yarrow, common bird's foot trefoil, and two plants of cuckoo flower. The unmown verge also attracted a flock of 18 starlings, which probed the turf for insects, aerating the soil.
The author hopes to monitor ragwort for cinnabar moth caterpillars and perhaps persuade the mowing team to transition seamlessly into Let It Bloom June, extending the benefits for wildlife.
