Which seasonal condition does Pink snow mold primarily affect?

Pink snow mold primarily affects cool-season grasses during prolonged cool wet weather because this fungal disease thrives in specific environmental conditions that favor its development. Cool temperatures combined with humid conditions create an ideal scenario for the spores of the fungus, Microdochium nivale, to germinate and infect the grass. This disease typically occurs in late winter to early spring when snow cover is present, but can also develop in fall if conditions are right.

Cool-season grasses are particularly vulnerable because they are actively growing during the cooler temperatures, making them more susceptible to damage from pathogens like those that cause pink snow mold. Prolonged wet weather increases moisture on the grass and allows the mold to spread easily. In contrast, warm-season grasses tend to be dormant during cool, wet conditions, and their growth cycle does not align with the conditions that foster pink snow mold.