Snow mold (Microdochium nivale) is seen when the snow melts in the spring. Diseased grass is covered with white, pink, or dirty-gray mycelium (threadlike structures). The affected grass is bleached and killed, usually in a circular pattern. This symptom is most common in wet, shaded areas where snow accumulates and is slow to melt. Infection begins in the fall under the wet snow and may continue through winter until spring. Fungal growth stops when the surface freezes or dries. Snow mold damage can be reduced on home lawns by keeping the turf surface free of a heavy mat going into the winter. Mow the grass until it goes dormant and rake leaves off the lawn so that the surface can dry quickly. Brushing or sweeping the mycelium off in the spring can also reduce damage. A mowing schedule should be maintained into fall as long as the grass continues to grow. The lawn should go into winter at the height it has been maintained during the growing season.

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