Pink Snow Mold (fungus – Microdochium nivale)

Host Grass: Bentgrass(Agrostis palustris), Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass(Lolium perenne)

Cause and Symptoms: Pink snow mold occasionally is a problem during extended periods of cool, wet weather with or without ice or snow cover. Patches occur as reddish-brown spots ranging from an inch to several inches in diameter. Sometimes a pink fungal mycelium may be seen at the advancing edge of the spot. Lush growth will make the turf more susceptible to snow mold.

Control and Management:  The last application of nitrogen should be early enough to give the turfgrass a chance to harden off before the grass becomes dormant. Contact fungicides (See the section Chemical Controls for Turfgrass Diseases) provide adequate control.

Content edited by: Young-ki Jo, ykjo@tamu.edu , Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, Dept Plant Pathology & Microbiology, Texas A&M University, Texas AgriLife Extension Service, May 31, 2013