For example, butterflies are often very particular about which part of the plant they will lay its eggs on (such as on the stem just below the flower) and mowing prevents these opportunities. It's all about allowing plants, the bedrock of any ecosystem, the time and space complete their lifecycle with each stage providing different opportunities for wildlife. This includes flowering and going to seed which provides nectar for pollinators and seeds for small mammals and birds.

The area doesn’t have to be the whole garden either, you can still retain areas of lawn whilst allowing some patches to go wild, it can be fascinating to sit back and see what visitors your new wild patch will gain. Who knows, if you fall in love with your new wild area, you may find yourself in No Mow June, July and August!

By Eric Swithinbank - Community Ecologist