What Is Snow Mold And How Do I Get Rid Of It?
As a homeowner, keeping your lawn healthy year-round can feel like an uphill battle. From mowing and mulching in the summer to raking and prep work in the fall, the work never really ends. And just when you think you’ve made it through winter, spring can reveal a surprise issue: snow mold.
Here’s everything you need to know about this frustrating cold-weather fungus, including how to recognize, treat, and prevent it.
What is Snow Mold?
Snow mold is a fungal lawn disease that thrives in cold, wet conditions, particularly after long periods of snowfall. It typically appears in early spring as the snow melts away, leaving behind patchy, matted grass.
There are two main types of snow mold:
- Gray Snow Mold (Typhula Blight)
- Pink Snow Mold (Microdochium Patch)
Both types form a web-like growth on the lawn and cause straw-colored, dead-looking patches of grass. The main difference is in the tint: gray or pink, depending on the species of fungus. This mold can lie dormant under snow all winter and activate when the temperature begins to rise, especially in poorly drained or compacted soils.
Signs of Snow Mold
Wondering if your lawn has snow mold? Here’s what to look for:
- Patches of tan or straw-colored grass
- Matted or crusty grass blades
- Web-like growth that appears gray or pink
- Circular or irregular spots across the lawn, especially in shady or poorly drained areas
These patches may look dead, but can often recover if treated quickly.
How to Treat Snow Mold
If you spot signs of snow mold in your lawn, don’t panic. Here’s how you can help your grass bounce back:
- Gently rake the affected areas to break up the matted grass and allow better airflow.
- Mow the lawn short to reduce moisture retention and discourage fungal growth.
- Avoid heavy fertilization until the lawn has fully recovered.
- Monitor regrowth, and reseed any bare patches if needed.
If the damage is extensive or keeps coming back, consider calling in a pro. Grasshopper offers lawn disease control services to help restore your yard with targeted treatments and expert care.
Tips to Prevent Snow Mold
Like many lawn issues, snow mold is easier to prevent than to fix. Here’s how you can protect your yard before winter sets in:
- Rake fallen leaves regularly in the fall to prevent moisture from getting trapped.
- Aerate your lawn once a year to improve drainage and reduce compaction.
- Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilizers in late fall, which can make grass more vulnerable.
- Spread out snow piles after storms so they melt faster and don’t smother the grass.
Keeping your lawn healthy and well-aerated heading into winter is your best defense.
Cold-Weather Lawn Trouble? Grasshopper Can Help
If snow mold or other lawn diseases are threatening your yard, Grasshopper is here to help. Our lawn disease control services are designed to treat fungal infections at the source and support healthy, long-term grass growth. We also offer professional fertilization and seasonal lawn care plans to keep your property looking great year-round.