There are two types of snow molds: gray and pink. They each have unique characteristics, but for the average homeowner, you just need to know that they are psychrophilic (cold-loving) funguses and they thrive when snow provides a dark, humid environment. So, my snow mold problem most likely grew on my lawn, and maybe yours, because we got snow that built up on our yards and stayed around for a little while.
Fungicides are not typically recommended because most of the time the problem will correct itself. Instead, find all the affected areas of your lawn, gently rake the spaces, and remove all the dead and decaying matter. Give your lawn a modest application of fertilizer and it should bounce back. If you have a lot of damage, you may need to re-seed some patches in your lawn. Spring is a good time to re-grow grass and your lawn can be looking better before you know it.
First, do not leave grass uncut at the end of the season and the final cutting, as grass becomes dormant, can be shorter to minimize matting. Also, avoid applying heavy nitrogen fertilizers late in the growing season. Once the snow begins to accumulate in your yard, remove or prevent snow build-up on grass, if possible. In spring or summer, check the amount of thatch in your lawn and consider de-thatching and/or aerating to remove thatch build-up and increase oxygen in your soil. Finally, adding some humus (compost) will help to build beneficial microbes and improve your overall soil and grass health moving forward.
Thankfully, snow mold is not a major issue to worry about. With proper autumn maintenance and the removal of snow when it comes during wintertime, you can avoid this issue in the future. But if you do get snow mold, simply address it in the spring and your lawn will bounce back.
