Community Engagement

Hi there green beans,

Hard to believe another year has gone by and here we are again – No Mow May! Firstly, the good news is that summer is coming and secondly, we need to get into the commitment of not mowing our lawns. If you adhere to No Mow May, excellent; you are setting an example for others. And every time you have an opportunity, tell people why you do it!

When the grass begins to grow in early spring, hungry bees start to look for nectar and pollen. By reducing how often you mow, you are letting the flowers bloom, and you are providing a natural habitat for your buzzy friends. We need these little guys not just for their honey, but bees also play an important role in promoting food security. The reality is they are in decline because of all the pesticides being used and urban sprawl. So, what can we do? If I had a huge yard and were 20 years younger, I would follow the lead of Marian Whitcomb from Baddeck. I was reading about her online and how she changed her one-acre yard from a lawn to a native garden. It is gorgeous. But a small yard doesn’t mean that I can’t do my part. I will plant what will attract bees and butterflies and at the same time, not invite the deer to share in the feast. First up is lavender. I’m told it’s easy to grow in pots and bees love it. You can’t beat that fragrance. I love using fresh herbs so lemon balm, mint, rosemary, sage, tarragon, and thyme will attract bees and mint and oregano will also attract butterflies. Then I can sit out this summer with my tea and enjoy the aroma, the beauty, and I will know that I am doing my small part.

Lastly, please brag that New Glasgow is Nova Scotia’s first Bee City; we were given that honour in November 2021. New Glasgow is very serious about being a Bee City. They are planting more native plants and flowers. They are installing four bee hives around the town, adding four bee water drinking baths, installing hummingbird feeders, and making a wildflower garden. One of the many reasons I love calling New Glasgow my home.

In the words of B.B. King - We are here because there are things that need our help. Like the planet. Like each other. Like animals. The world is like a garden, and we are its protectors.