Late mowing: when maintenance goes hand in hand with biodiversity

At the foot of the Alpilles mountains, Servanes Golf Club pursues its environmental commitment with conviction and discretion. Behind the natural beauty of the course, five passionate gardeners work every day to preserve the fauna, flora… and the playing experience. Their work is based on a subtle balance: maintaining a course of excellence while allowing nature to express itself. It is in this dynamic that a practice that is still too little known but essential comes into play: late mowing.

What is late mowing?

Unlike regular, systematic mowing, late mowing involves allowing the grass to grow longer in certain areas of the course before cutting it at the end of the cycle. This approach allows plants to flower, go to seed and play their full role in the ecosystem.

Why is this essential for Servanes?

  • Protection of pollinators: bees, butterflies and beneficial insects find refuge and food here.
  • Restoration of plant diversity: each flowering season allows local plants, some of which are rare, to recolonise the area.
  • Habitat for small wildlife: small mammals and birds take advantage of these quiet areas to nest and feed.
  • Natural regulation: richer vegetation helps to naturally limit certain pressures, such as pests.

A recognised commitment

This effort is by no means insignificant: it is fully in line with the national ‘Argent – Tous pour la Biodiversité’ (Silver – All for Biodiversity) initiative launched by the FFGolf. This label recognises the daily work of our teams, their ability to adapt to climate and environmental challenges, and their commitment to ensuring a sustainable, responsible and vibrant golfing experience.

There are five of them on the pitch, experts in plants and sporting aesthetics. Their role has evolved: they observe, measure, let things happen… then intervene at the right moment. Thanks to them, late mowing has become a tool for regeneration rather than just a technical procedure.

What about the players?

Areas designated for late mowing are clearly marked so as not to interfere with play. They even offer:

  • a more authentic setting,
  • a course design enhanced by varied vegetation textures,
  • greater immersion in the Provençal landscape.

A more beautiful, more natural, more vibrant golf course.

One step closer to sustainable golf

At Servanes Golf Club, every season is an opportunity to improve our practices: water conservation, sustainable resource management, preservation of natural environments… Late mowing is an important piece of this ecological puzzle.

Because a course where nature can breathe is a course that inspires.