Letting nature grow this No Mow May

Twayblade Orchid

This May, we’re taking part in Plantlife’s No Mow May campaign by allowing selected areas across the site to grow naturally through the month.

While our formal lawns including the terraces, amphitheatre, Mount Vernon and more will continue to be carefully maintained by our wonderful Garden Team, some of our meadow areas will be left unmown a little longer to support wildlife and biodiversity.

In the arboretum meadow, twayblade orchids are already beginning to appear, with common spotted, bee and pyramidal orchids expected to follow later in the season.

No Mow May is one of the simplest ways to support nature. By allowing grasses and wildflowers such as daisies, clover and dandelions to grow, and green spaces can provide valuable food and habitat for pollinators including bees and butterflies.

Beyond helping wildlife, meadow areas can also help soil retain moisture during warmer weather and create resilient habitats throughout the summer months.

Many visitors may not realise that large areas of the site are already managed as meadows beyond the formal gardens. These spaces are carefully maintained with mown paths and edges to keep them accessible, intentional and enjoyable to explore during the summer months.

Sometimes, simply giving nature a little more time can reveal what’s already waiting beneath the surface.