As the snow melts away and your lawn begins to re-emerge, you may notice discolored, matted patches of grass. This could be a sign of snow mold, a fungal disease that thrives in cold, damp conditions under snow cover. At Lawn Doctor of Greater Columbus, we’re here to help you understand, treat, and prevent snow mold while preparing your lawn for a lush, green spring season.
What is Snow Mold?
Snow mold is a turf disease caused by fungal growth during winter. There are two main types:
- Gray Snow Mold (Typhula Blight): Appears in circular, grayish patches and can damage grass blades but rarely kills the root system.
- Pink Snow Mold (Microdochium Patch): More severe, with pinkish or tan patches that can kill grass at the crown level, leading to significant lawn damage.
How to Treat Snow Mold
If your lawn shows signs of snow mold, follow these steps to help it recover:
- Rake and Aerate – Gently rake affected areas to improve air circulation and help the grass dry out. Aeration also relieves compacted soil and enhances water absorption.
- Mow the Lawn – A trim in early spring at the appropriate height encourages new growth and helps remove dead grass.
- Apply a Light Fertilizer – A balanced spring fertilizer promotes healthy grass regrowth and strengthens the lawn against future diseases.
- Overseed if Needed – If certain areas are severely damaged, overseeding will introduce fresh grass growth and fill in bare spots.
- Monitor Moisture Levels – Avoid overwatering in early spring, as excessive moisture can prolong fungal growth.
Preparing Your Lawn for Spring
Preventing snow mold and ensuring a strong, healthy lawn requires proper spring preparation. Here’s what you can do:
- Dethatch and Aerate: Reducing thatch buildup improves airflow and drainage, preventing future fungal issues.
- Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide: This helps prevent crabgrass and other spring weeds from taking over.
- Schedule Lawn Treatments: Professional lawn care services, like fertilization and weed control from Lawn Doctor of Greater Columbus, give your grass the nutrients and protection it needs for the growing season.
Get Your Lawn Ready with Lawn Doctor of Greater Columbus
Don’t let snow mold ruin your lawn’s spring potential! Our expert team offers professional lawn care services, including aeration, fertilization, and weed control, to ensure your yard thrives. Call 614.771.1589 or visit our website at www.lawndoctor.com/westerville-oh to schedule your lawn care service today.
A healthy, vibrant lawn starts with the right care—let’s get your grass growing strong this spring!
