Lawn Problems After the Snow Melts

Pink Snow Mold

Pink snow mold is caused by microdochium nivale fungal spores, according to the University of Rhode Island Landscape Horticulture Program. At first pink snow mold will appear white, the fungal disease slowly turns shades of light pink to a salmon color. Pink snow mold is more serious than gray snow mold, because it spreads from the blades to the root systems of grass. In addition, pink snow mold can occur anytime during the late fall to early spring and doesn't need snow to infect grass.

Gray snow mold typically only occurs after snow has been sitting on the lawn for a long time, according to the University of Rhode Island Landscape Horticulture Program. This fungal disease appears white right after infection and turns gray over time. You may see tiny black fungal spores appear on your grass blades. The disease only effects the grass blades and won't travel down to the root system of the grass. Sometimes gray snow mold's symptoms will disappear when the grass has had time to dry out.

Fungicides only work if they are applied before the grass has contracted the disease. Apply a fungicide that is chemically formulated to prevent pink and gray snow mold right before the first snow fall. Dead lawn patches may need to be reseeded in the spring to prevent weeds from taking advantage of bare areas. Dig up the dead grass and broadcast your lawn seeds over those areas. Watch for pink snow mold when temperatures cool, because the disease can reappear.

Keeping the lawn from entering dormancy will help prevent both types of snow molds. Supplying fertilizer six weeks before the grass usually goes dormant will keep the roots growing. Grass roots continue to grow even after the blades have turned brown. Avoid applying fertilizer too late in the growing season or you can encourage new growth that becomes damaged when temperatures plummet. In addition, you can help prevent your lawn contracting gray or pink snow melt by removing leaves and other debris in the fall.