SNOW MOULD

What is snow mould?

Fusarium patch, also known as snow mould, is a type of fungal infection on lawns that creates brown or yellow patches. Due to excess moisture, this condition is particularly prevalent in autumn or winter, and is a sign that the lawn may be under stress.  

Anything that causes a layer to cover your grass can help snow mould to thrive, which could be from fallen snow or leaves and other foliage not being raked from the lawn.

How can I spot snow mould?

The first thing you will spot are small patches of yellowish, dying grass that rapidly increase in size due to the wet weather. There are two types of the disease: grey (Typhula incarnate) and pink (Microdochium nivale). Grey snow mould usually only occurs after prolonged snow cover, whereas pink snow mould may be active in cool, wet conditions.

How do I treat snow mould?

Snow mould is typically caused by excess moisture, so the best way to treat and prevent it is to maintain a healthy lawn that’s regularly scarified and aerated to improve irrigation to the root. You should also maintain a regular mowing practice, including during the winter. Finally, ensure that all debris is raked away from your lawn as soon as possible. Where disease is severe you may need to book a fungicide treatment to eradicate the infection.