We're at that awkward season now, aren't we: past winter, but with enough snow around that it doesn't quite feel like spring yet.
Everything looks dusty and dirty and tired after a long, hard winter. It is during this season that you may see an invader on your lawn: snow mold.
Snow mold makes itself known in two ways: number one, by causing congestion and runny noses for all those who are sensitive to it; and number two, but the obvious evidence on your lawn, either dead patches of grass or the fine covering of mold creeping across your unsuspecting lawn.
I did some research on snow mold, and once again, the U of S had some very good information. Here's what I learned. Snow mold is a fungi; the spores are always present in our lawns, but become active when the conditions are right. Snow mold loves a moist lawn, or areas where the snow is slow to melt, and temperatures that linger around zero.
If you have snow mold, rake up the infected area, and be sure to throw the debris away. Since grass grows quickly, moisture and dose of fertilizer later in the season will probably be enough to get the lawn going again. While you're working keep in mind that snow mold can spread as you walk around your yard.
I learned that we can prevent snow mold by some simple steps. We shouldn't fertilize our lawns after August 15. All that tender new growth is a target for the snow mold spores at that time of year. Keep grass trimmed in the fall, and be sure to rake up any leaves. Snow mold also likes compacted snow, so in the spring, get out there with a shovel and spread the piles of snow around so they melt evenly. And if you are just doing your first landscaping, choose a good, hardy, disease-resistant type of grass.
It's always something, isn't it. Snow mold, blight, excessive rain, slugsno wonder gardeners are such An optimistic bunch! We always look ahead with hope!
I know that those of you going on the road trip ion April 30 will have a great time; there will be so many exciting things to see to get the gardening juices going! Take notes, take pictures, and come home with some great ideas!
The Yorkton and District Horticultural Society has a busy May in store: our regular meeting is on Wednesday, May 18, when we'll be visiting Young's Plant World, and Kevin Young will be talking to us about evergreens and ornamental trees for 2011.
Then on Friday, May 20, it's the annual Spring Bulb and Plant Sale at the Parkland Mall. This is always a great sale, and, say it with me now, "come early for best selection!". You've heard me say that dozens of times, but if you've been to the sales, you know why! Many people have a certain plant on their "wish list", and if they see it, it's snapped up quickly! So come early and don't be disappointed!
Till next time, good luck with your lawns, and have a good week!
