If you manage a field in the Midwest or East Coast, chances are there has been a snow event within the last week. The answer? There is no way to tell at this time of year.

Will I get snow mold with an early snow event?

December 17, 2013

This is a question I have received numerous times this week. If you manage a field in the Midwest or East Coast, chances are there has been a snow event within the last week.
The answer? There is no way to tell at this time of year. Why? A turf manager has two different types of snow mold to worry about. Gray snow mold and pink snow mold.
Gray snow mold can be expected after 40-60 days of snow cover. To be honest, this is not much of a concern to turf managers unless you reside in MN, northern MI, northern NY, etc. To learn more about gray snow mold, click HERE to see a publication from Dr. Rick Latin at Purdue University.
Pink snow mold occurs at a greater rate across the US. Why? Snow cover is not necessary for pink snow mold infestation. To learn more about pink snow mold, click HERE to see a publication from Dr. Rick Latin at Purdue University.
Bottom line, if you are concerned about snow mold, and you manage a stand of turf that cannot be exposed to damage, a preventative application of a turf fungicide may be warranted.