Support pollinators. Promote sustainability. 

The No Mow 'til Mother’s Day program is a voluntary initiative that encourages residents to delay mowing and doing their Spring clean-up until Mother’s Day—the Second Sunday in May—to provide critical habitat for pollinators during early spring.

Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects emerge in early spring, often before many flowers are in bloom. By allowing lawns to grow naturally and leaving early-flowering plants like clover, violets, and dandelions untouched, we give these species access to essential food and shelter when they need it most.

How the Program Works

Residents interested in participating must complete a short online registration form by April 30.
Each application will be reviewed by the Public Works and Community Development departments to ensure participation does not conflict with Village maintenance efforts or occur in areas with high rodent activity.

• Approval Required: Completing the form does not guarantee approval.
• Display Required: Approved participants will receive a flyer/yard sign to display in a front-facing window to indicate participation and avoid code enforcement issues.
• Return to Compliance: All participating properties must return to regular mowing and have grass trimmed to six inches or less by the third Sunday in May.

Program Benefits

🌼 Supports Pollinators: Delaying mowing allows native flowers and ground covers to bloom, offering food and habitat for bees, butterflies, and other important pollinators.

🌱 Improves Soil and Lawn Health: Longer grass promotes deeper root systems, improves soil structure, and increases moisture retention—making your lawn more resilient and requiring less watering.

🌎 Reduces Emissions: Less mowing means fewer emissions from gas-powered lawn equipment, helping to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases.

Lawn Management: To protect both pollinators and the integrity of your lawn, follow best practices during and after the program:

• Avoid mowing more than one-third of grass height at a time.
• Keep mower blades sharp for a clean cut.
• Return your lawn to a manageable height gradually after Mother’s Day to avoid stressing the grass.
• Refrain from using pesticides or herbicides during the No Mow period.

Learn More Interested in long-term pollinator support? Check out the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Native Gardening Guide for tips on planting native species and creating pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Ready to Participate? 

Fill out the form below.