Envu Solutions – Snow Mould

Cultural practices such as avoiding late-fall fertilization that promotes lush growth, reducing thatch, removing tree leaves, managing drifting snow, and improving drainage can help reduce disease severity.

Infection timing: While symptoms appear under snow, infection for both pink and grey snow mould begins in the fall. As temperatures fall below 10 °C, risk accumulates in what are known as Heating Degree Days (HDDs), a tracking system similar to Growing Degree Days used for plant growth.

Application strategy:

• At 25–50 HDDs (typically 3–4 weeks before winter’s final application), a “go-in clean” spray—such as Fame^® SC—helps reduce inoculum and strengthens disease protection.
• A final fungicide application should be made after the last mowing of the season, around 100 HDDs, just before snow cover. Programs including two or three active ingredients—such as Dedicate^® Stressgard^®, or tank mixes with Fame SC and Mirage^® Stressgard^®—deliver excellent and long-lasting snow mould control.

Additional benefits: Fame SC also provides outstanding Microdochium patch control in the fall, helping turf enter winter clean and healthy. It also serves as an excellent tank-mix partner with Mirage Stressgard or Dedicate Stressgard, offering added versatility and strength in fall fungicide programs.

Multiple years of research have demonstrated that Stressgard formulations not only provide excellent snow mould control but also improve turf quality and vigor following snow melt. However, if treated areas experience abnormal weather, heavy rainfall, or snowfall that melts before permanent cover, a repeat application may be necessary to maintain effective protection.

To view trial results, HDD-based application timing charts, and more detailed product recommendations, be sure to download the solution sheet or contact your local Territory Sales Manager for strategies tailored to your course.