At The Alnwick Garden, we’re joining thousands across the country in taking part in “No Mow May”—and it’s not just about letting the grass grow. There’s a deeper reason behind it, and it ties beautifully into our ethos of sustainability, biodiversity, and working with nature, not against it.
May is a critical month for our local wildlife. After a long winter and a dry spring, it’s a time when pollinators like bees, butterflies, moths and other insects start to emerge from hibernation, looking for food and a place to call home. By letting our lawns and grassy areas grow a little wild, we’re giving them just that—nectar-rich flowers for feeding, and shelter to breed and lay eggs. In turn, these insects support the food chain, feeding birds and other animals, helping to build a healthy, resilient ecosystem.
You might also notice how lush and green the grass at Alnwick looks right now. Our longer, denser grass acts like a sponge, holding onto moisture, capturing carbon, and creating a more vibrant and alive space for all to enjoy. It’s nature doing what nature does best – wearing its green stripes well, and in my opinion, it looks all the better for it.
On a practical note, our ride-on mowers are currently getting their annual tune-up. We’re sharpening the blades, checking the kit, and making sure everything is safe, road-legal and ready for the season ahead. It’s a perfect moment to pause mowing—and let nature step in.
The garden team and I are aware also that gardening, horticulture, and the botanical sciences are full of different opinions, and that’s part of what makes it beautiful. But here at The Alnwick Garden, we’re trying to balance both the science and the soul of the place—responding to the land, the seasons, and the life that depends on it. Our aim is to create a living legacy: a garden that’s not just visually stunning, but ecologically rich and sustainable too.
After all, plants and wildlife isn’t just decoration. They give us the air we breathe and the food we eat. Let’s give them a chance to grow, feed, and flourish.
Mikey Leach, Head Gardener
We are delighted to share this year’s Social Impact report, which proudly highlights the impact The Alnwick Garden Trust has made in our community over 2024/25. The Trust is truly unique, not only providing a destination for a great day out, but also as the home of life changing programmes that support those most in need.
