Beware of snow mold! Edward’s Lawn & Home can help keep your lawn in tip-top condition year-round.
Lawncare may come to an end during the winter when the grass becomes dormant, but that doesn’t mean danger can’t come to your turf. One type of blight that can occur during the winter is snow mold. When the conditions are just right, with the moisture of the rain and snow over the grass mixing with the temperature and humidity of the air, fungi can begin to grow and hurt your lawn. Below is the description and treatment for the two types of snow mold.
Grey Snow Mold
Identification
Grey snow mold is less severe than pink snow mold. If you see white patches on your grass come late winter or spring that have a 3 in.-12 in. diameter, it is likely the grey kind. Sometimes, the growth can become so severe that the spots join together and cover the yard. This variety kills the leaf blades, but does not touch the roots.
Treatment
Grey snow mold often goes away on its own once the temperature gets above 40 degrees Fahrenheit and the snowy wet season passes. Even so, you won’t want to wait til then, since the mold can still significantly damage the lawn. Lightly rake over the moldy, dead grass to promote aeration and new grass growth. If your lawn is already healthy, it should recover just fine.
Pink Snow Mold
Identification
Pink snow mold, also known as fusarium patch, is more deadly to your lawn. It targets not only the blades but also the crown, where roots and blades converge. At first, this type of mold will appear white and webby like its grey cousin, but as it matures, it will turn salmon or pink, especially on its perimeter.
Treatment
Pink snow mold lasts longer, eating the lawn away until the weather gets above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Several natural remedies exist that can take care of it before it does its worst. One option is to use a compost and earthworm castings tea. One can find both the compost and earthworm castings at the local garden center, soak them in ⅔ water in a 5-gallon bucket for 24-36 hours, stirring for aeration. Strain the mix and water or spray the infected area.
Best Defense Against Snow Mold
Snow mold happens, but the best defense against it is to keep a healthy lawn, which involves good watering, mowing, fertilizing, and aeration & overseeding practices. Let Edward’s Lawn & Home be your lawncare provider!
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