The cold, damp conditions that winter and spring bring with them often take a toll on your turf. They can often bring with them snow molds. These molds come in two types; gray and pink. Each of these molds act a little differently and thrive under different conditions. Mickey’s LawnScapes is here to explain both of them and some tips to help you avoid mold on your lawn this winter and spring.
What is Snow Mold Caused By?
Snow mold is something that usually shows up in the early spring after snow has melted. You may notice patches of discolored grass in a circular pattern. These fungal patches are caused by the perfect temperature mixed with wet conditions. The occurrence of snow mold relies heavily on environmental conditions. If you have a cool season grass, it is susceptible to snow mold.
Difference Between Pink & Gray Snow Mold
The most obvious difference between gray and pink snow mold is the color. Gray snow mold varies in color from white to gray while pink will vary in color from white to pink. One key difference between these two molds is the presence of hard structures known as sclerotia found only in gray mold. Gray snow mold is caused by Typhula spp. While pink snow mold comes from Microdochium nivalis. Gray snow mold will stop growing once the outside temperature reaches 45 degrees while pink snow mold will grow in conditions ranging between 32 degrees and 60 degrees.
How Do You Treat Gray & Pink Snow Mold
When treating pink snow mold, you may have to resort to fungicides. While these aren’t usually recommended, they may be necessary when you are dealing severe cases. Usually the remedy to the problem includes raking the infected area to spread out the moisture and allow it to dry. Damage caused by snow molds is generally not serious, but you do have to wait for those patches to green up again once getting rid of the mold.
How to Prevent Snow Mold
There are some steps that you can take to prevent snow molds in the future. These steps include:
-Avoid excess applications of Nitrogen fertilizers in the fall season.
-Keep mowing your lawn until it stops growing for the season. If the turf is too tall, it will be more likely to mat and retain moisture.
-Don’t allow leaves to accumulate on your lawn before snowfall. Rake them up before the first snow of the season.
-Don’t allow the thatch layer to exceed ½ inch.
-Evenly spread out heavy snowfall to encourage melting. The use of snow fencing can be helpful in minimize snowfall in problem areas.
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If you are concerned about your lawn heading into the winter season, the lawn experts at Mickey’s LawnScapes can help you maintain a healthy lawn throughout the winter. Our goal to is to help you maintain lawn health no matter what season it is. Call us today for more information.
