Snow mold is a common problem, especially in Michigan. It can turn your gorgeous green lawn into a true eyesore. Even though most cases aren’t completely detrimental to your lawn’s health and may not require professional treatments, snow mold can still be irritating.
So, let’s find out what exactly this lawn nuisance is and why it happens.
Snow mold is actually a form of mold that forms under blankets of snow during winter. If you take a walk around your yard, you may notice circular spots that are gray, white, or pink. In the center of the spots will be a cobweb-like material, called mycelium. If the spot is gray, the mycelium will be gray or white.
If it’s pink snow mold, there will be a pinkish tone to the mycelium. Knowing the difference between the two is very important; pink snow mold can be very harmful to your lawn and you should contact a professional lawn service like LushLawn immediately. Luckily, gray snow mold is much more common than pink in our area and it will not kill your lawn.
It forms due to a lack of sunlight and restriction to airflow. It is especially common after the winter season after your lawn has undergone a period of freezing temperatures and snow cover. It can also form without snow cover if it is cool, rainy, or overcast. It can happen to even the most well-groomed lawn, especially in Michigan with unpredictable weather changes.
There are many steps that you can take to help your lawn. Wait until the grass grows a little bit and mow the affected area to remove the dead, “crusty,” parts. If a week or two later, lightly rake the areas and “fluff” up the grass. Make sure you don’t rake too hard or you could damage the plant.
LushLawn’s team of certified technicians can help you get the lawn you’ve always wanted. Our 14 step program addresses every issue you may encounter and delivers a beautiful lawn for you and your family to enjoy.