The winning meadows in Scotland’s first No Mow May competition were announced in East Linton Community Hall last week.
During judging 143 species were identified in the lawns, left to grow throughout May. This included 23 types of grass and species on the conservation “Red List”. Corn Spurrey, Common Rockrose and Sheep Sorrel, which are on the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland’s most at risk list, were discovered growing in the competing gardens.
On Thursday 11 June, 73 attendees were at the awards held by charity Plantlife UK, as part of the East Linton Gala.
Prizes were given to the shaggiest, most wildlife-friendly gardens.
This included a ‘Young Persons’ grower award, ‘Community Greenspace’ and an overall ‘Best for Nature’ award.
“Environmentalism needs to become playful and far less sanctimonious. That joy can manifest in many ways, and one is through local competitions.”
St Baldreds community garden won the best community greenspace with 43 species of plants in their lawn. However the top spots were dominated by Andrew Meikle Grove. The road claimed two out of the ten top five spots, with the winning garden cramming 48 species into their competition lawn. The cul de sac can claim to be the greenest corner of East Linton.
Bonus marks were also awarded for creative flare and to gardens which had made an effort to improve biodiversity.
Competing for the first ever ‘Now Mow May’ title were 50 gardens from across the village. Eighteen of these gardens were open to the public over the weekend as part of the local summer gala celebrations.
Local organiser and author Ken Ilgunas says that the competition was really well received. It gave a sense of joy of local pride that’s often missing in climate and nature action.
“Environmentalism needs to become playful and far less sanctimonious. That joy can manifest in many ways, and one is through local competitions.”
For more on this project photos, video and background on the competition visit Ken Ilgunas’ blog, the East Linton Gala website or Plantlife.org.uk
Visit the ELCAN Biodiversity group for more resources and opportunities to get involved in local action.
