Snow Mold

Snow Mold is a term used to describe several fungal winter diseases of turfgrass; it usually appears in the spring when snow melts. Two main types exist: gray and pink snow mold and they become active under snow cover, although pink snow mold frequently becomes active in the absence of snow in cool, moist conditions.  


Each fall we treat greens, tees and fairways with a fungicide to prevent the disease. It is not practical to treat home lawns for snow mold, but a few cultural practices can be done to lessen the severity.  


1. Avoid excessive nitrogen applications late in the fall.
2. Rake up all the leaves in your yard.
3. If possible, avoid large piles of snow that take a long time to melt.
4. Continue to mow your lawn. Long grass can mat down creating a breeding ground for fungi.