Repair, soil and wildlife
No Mow May: what should you do afterwards?
Bring longer May grass back into use gradually—or keep a wildlife-rich patch for the rest of the season.
At a glance
- Decide which patches will stay long.
- Inspect for wildlife and hazards.
- Choose dry conditions.
- Make the first cut high.
- Remove heavy cuttings and lower gradually.
You do not need one finish
Plantlife encourages varied grass lengths because they offer different habitats. Keep a short path, sitting or play area, then allow a margin or patch to flower longer. Rotating long areas can preserve nectar while sharing wear.
Mark the edge before cutting so the pattern looks deliberate.
Make the first cut safely
Long grass may hide stones, branches, animal resting places and uneven ground. Walk and inspect slowly. Use equipment designed for the height and density, and do not force an ordinary mower into tangled vegetation.
Take only the upper growth, clear the cuttings, then allow recovery before lowering again.
Manage the longer patch
One or two planned cuts can suit a meadow-style area better than simply abandoning it. Remove cut material to keep fertility down and let light reach smaller plants. Exact timing depends on which flowers are present and whether seed is part of your aim.
Frequently asked questions
Should I cut everything on 1 June?
No. Continue a varied regime if it suits the garden, and reduce any long area gradually.
Can a normal mower handle a month of growth?
Sometimes on a high setting, but dense or flattened growth may need different equipment or a staged professional cut.
Further guidance
For deeper horticultural and safety information, use these authoritative UK sources:
This guide provides general domestic lawn-care information. Product labels, equipment manuals, weather, site conditions and professional advice take priority.