Snow Mold: Identification, Prevention, and Spring Recovery

Snow mold (Typhula blight = gray; Fusarium patch = pink) activates under snow cover on unfrozen ground. Straw-colored circular patches appear at melt, often with visible fungal mycelium or mushrooms. Wet, cool springs prolong activity.

Cultural Prevention

Fall nitrogen: avoid excess—feeds the fungus. Final mowing: continue until growth stops; tall grass mats and holds moisture. Leaf removal: piles harbor inoculum. General sanitation: trim, prune, rake—deny the pathogen its preferred cool, moist, sheltered environment. Fungicides exist but cultural management is the primary, sustainable strategy.