Pink Snow Mold Activity?

Last updated 4/15/03

HOME

TURF TIP
4/15/03

Pink Snow Mold Activity?

Cool wet weather conditions that often persist from late winter through mid-spring favor the activity of Microdochium nivale, the pathogen that causes pink snow mold (sometimes referred to as Microdochium patch. Changes in the appearance of pink snow mold scars can be used to determine when to spray. Fungicide treatment may be warranted when the margins of typically straw colored scars develop a rust-brown band. The rust-brown color is a sign of pathogen activity and signals the need for fungicides to limit the extent of turf damage, especially if cold wet conditions are forecast. By early May, fungicide application is probably not necessary in most parts of the state. By then, the prevailing weather conditions will not favor infection and turf damage. The decision is not as easy in April, because sufficient infection could result in noticeable turf damage, especially to greens. My 10-day forecast shows mild dry weather for the next week, then a period of mild wet weather beginning around April 18.

Rick Latin, Turfgrass Pathologist