Snow Mold – SavATree Insects & Diseases Snow Mold What is Snow Mold? Snow mold is a fungal disease that appears when snow melts in early spring. It is most common in years with early snows over ground that has not had a chance to freeze. There are two varieties of snow mold. Gray Snow MoldGray snow mold forms under snow piles and is characterized by circular patches of straw-colored turf that appear matted and may have gray webbing present. Pink Snow Mold Pink Snow Mold occurs with or without snow. It can be active from 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 60 degrees Fahrenheit as long as grass remains wet. The patches of affected turf are straw-colored with a white or pinkish fungal growth. Is Snow Mold Serious?Snow mold damage is generally cosmetic. However, infected areas may be slower to come out of dormancy and green up. Lightly raking infected patches after the lawn begins to dry will increase airflow and help aid recovery. Fertilizing will stimulate new growth. What Can Be Done About Snow Mold?Follow these simple steps to help reduce the impact of snow mold next year: 1. Continue mowing in the fall until the grass has stopped growing 2. Remove all leaves and debris before snow falls 3. Manage thatch with core aeration to help turf dry faster 4. Spread out snow piles as spring nears to encourage rapid melt. Click or call today to arrange a complimentary consultation from our fully trained and certified arborists for snow mold, tree trimming and residential lawn care services from SavATree. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an expert arborist.