Orsi NyáraiJun 13, 2023

RT @NigelWitham

Mowing became fashionable during the Industrial Revolution when it was how the wealthy showed off they didn't need to grow their own food.

250 years on and manicured lawns are so embedded in our culture that despite the adverse impacts many can't envision any alternatives.

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Using an infrared thermometer to measure the difference in temperature between mown paths and the unmown areas in my garden.

Show threadAndreas BrunthalerJun 14, 2023

@OrsiNyarai

@vicgrinberg

We are trying to convince the administration of our institute to let the grass grow, but we are facing quite a bit of resistance and concerns. "It will look messy." " People will think we're lazy." "Grass is supposed to be cut every two weeks."

We made some progress, but some parts were mowed anyway. The result after 4 weeks with almost no rain is shown in the image. Buy at least order was restored. 😀

#biodiversity

Show threadOrsi NyáraiJun 14, 2023
@brunthal @vicgrinberg Don't give up the good fight. It looks so much better and healthier where the grass was spared from mowing. Change of mindset is needed before change of practice...or...maybe the promising results of a new practice could change their mindset? Refer your institute to the inspiring example of University of Cambridge :) https://www.cam.ac.uk/stories/kings-wildflower-meadow-a-break-from-the-lawn
A break from the lawn: can an iconic meadow seed wider change?

A new study at King's College, Cambridge reveals the striking benefits of letting lawns go wild. But can others be persuaded to break with a 300-year old social norm?

University of Cambridge
Show threadAndreas Brunthaler
@OrsiNyarai
Thanks. That is a great example indeed.
@vicgrinberg
Jun 14, 2023 at 12:03pmWeb