Snow Mold Research Paper

Fluctuations of temperature and moisture are common in Iowa during December and January. These variations from rain, freezing rain to snow events, occur throughout the early winter months. Because of these transitory thaws and freezes, turf potentially develops an ice layer over the top of the turf canopy. The thickness and type of ice is dependent on the weather and site specific conditions. When thick dense ice coats the surface it can create hypoxic conditions (lack of oxygen) in combination with high concentrations of carbon dioxide and other toxic gases. When ice-snow layers are present, it is not as much as a priority due to consistent gas exchange.

While there is a high level of concern across the industry in ice coverage, there is great debate on the longevity required to cause damage. The factors that contribute to ice accumulation are difficult to quantify and replicate. A general consensus across the industry believes a majority of turfgrass can survive 70-90 days under ice. Prolonged ice coverage can begin to lose air and cause extensive turf damage. One of the most difficult decisions is whether to remove the …show more content…
Gray snow mold is caused by Typhula spp. and requires extended periods of snow cover; while pink snow mold (Michrodocium nivale) can occur with or without snow cover. In Iowa, pink snow mold is more likely, while gray snow mold occurs more frequently in the upper transition zone. Damage from both pink and gray snow mold will usually recover as spring temperatures rise and growth resumes. Heavy late season applications of nitrogen can increase chance of snow mold development and lead to poor cold acclimation. Snow mold also thrives under growth blankets and conditions when early fall snowfall develops over unfrozen ground. If snow mold injury is a recurring problem, preventive fungicide applications are the best control