Heatwaves, meadows and wildlife: managing grasslands through hot, dry weather

 

Periods of prolonged hot and dry weather are becoming an increasingly familiar feature of our summers. Across Monmouthshire, many grasslands have turned golden and growth has slowed, leaving a landscape that can appear very different from the abundant green we are used to.

 

For those who manage meadows, this change is not unexpected. Traditional grasslands have evolved alongside seasonal variation and many meadow species are well adapted to periods of drought. However, increasingly frequent and prolonged dry periods do present new challenges, affecting flowering times, seed production and therefore the availability of food for all wildlife. Understanding what is happening within our grasslands is an important part of good meadow management.

 

How meadows respond to drought

Species-rich meadows are naturally diverse habitats, containing a mixture of grasses, flowering plants and fungi alongside the many insects and other animals that depend on them. This diversity is one of the reasons healthy meadows can be resilient in challenging conditions.

 

Many native grasses and flowering plants respond to drought by slowing their growth or becoming dormant, conserving energy until rainfall returns. Deep-rooted plants are often able to access moisture further down in the soil, helping them survive periods when the surface appears dry – this is easily observed by the order in which meadow plants lose their colour.

 

Drought does still have an impact. Shorter flowering periods, reduced nectar availability and lower seed production can all affect pollinating insects and the wider food web. In particularly dry years, meadow managers may need to adapt their approach, taking into account the condition of individual sites, the plants present and the weather conditions. Good meadow management is therefore about working with nature rather than following rigid rules.

 

Timing the hay cut

One of the defining features of traditional hay meadows is that they are generally cut once a year, after the wildflowers have flowered and set seed. Removing the hay after cutting also helps maintain the low nutrient conditions that allow a wide range of wildflowers to thrive, preventing more vigorous grasses from dominating.

 

The timing of the hay cut varies depending on weather, soil conditions and plant growth. During particularly dry summers the ideal time for cutting may also come forward. This year, for example, some meadows reached the right stage for cutting much earlier than expected. Careful observation and understanding of each meadow remains essential, rather than relying on a fixed date each year.

 

Helping wildlife in your own garden

Although meadow management often focuses on larger areas of grassland, gardens also provide valuable refuges for wildlife during hot weather and provide a practical way in which more of Monmouthshire’s residents can help wildlife.

 

 

Leave some areas longer

Allowing parts of your lawn or garden to grow longer helps shade the soil, reducing evaporation and retaining moisture. Longer vegetation also provides shelter for insects and allows flowering plants such as clover, selfheal and bird's-foot trefoil to provide valuable nectar when other sources become scarce. A less intensively managed area, even a small one, can make a meaningful difference.

 

Provide water

Drought means that natural water sources can become scarcer and harder to access. Providing a shallow dish of clean water can help birds, insects and other small animals. Adding stones or pebbles gives insects a safe place to land and drink, while regularly refreshing water helps keep it clean. Ponds are also a great addition to your garden if you have space.

 

Think before you tidy

Leaving some areas of vegetation, seed heads and rough grass can provide important shelter and habitat. Rather than cutting everything back at once, consider maintaining a variety of heights and structures across your garden. A little ‘untidiness’ can provide a tidy solution for helping wildlife.

 

Things to avoid

 

Unnecessary mowing

During hot, dry periods, mowing can remove shelter for wildlife and expose the soil to increased heat and moisture loss. Where possible, consider leaving some areas uncut or creating different mowing regimes across your garden. This provides a wider range of conditions for plants and animals.

 

Be careful when cutting and strimming

Long grass and meadow edges can provide shelter for insects, reptiles, small mammals and late-nesting birds. Before cutting or strimming, take time to check the area and consider whether wildlife may still be using it.

 

Reduce the risk of grass fires

The risk of grass fires increases during prolonged periods of dry weather. This summer we have already seen significant grassland and heathland fires in South Wales, highlighting how quickly dry vegetation can become a serious hazard. Be mindful of ignition sources such as fires and barbeques, and take care when using machinery such as strimmers during very dry conditions.

 

There’s a wealth of actions that everybody can take to help wildlife in hot weather, The Wildlife Trusts have a useful list which you can view online here.

 

 

Protecting Monmouthshire's meadows

 

Traditional wildflower meadows are among our most valuable habitats, supporting a huge diversity of plants, fungi and wildlife. Yet they have declined dramatically over the last century, making the remaining areas increasingly important. Protecting these habitats requires collaboration between landowners, volunteers and local communities. By managing grasslands carefully, restoring lost meadows and creating connections between habitats, we can help wildlife move through the landscape and become more resilient.

 

If you are interested in learning more about meadow management, restoring wildflower-rich grassland or supporting local conservation, consider joining Monmouthshire Meadows Group. 

 

Members can access advice, events, surveys and opportunities to connect with others working to protect and restore meadows across the county.

 

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