Snow mold fungus damages lawns after heavy-snow winter

Lawns across Denmark are suffering from widespread damage caused by snow mold fungus following this year’s prolonged, snow-heavy winter, reports Danish broadcaster DR.

The fungus, known as sneskimmel in Danish, thrives in the moist conditions created when snow covers frozen ground for extended periods. Søren Nicholson of lawn care company Græsnørden explained that the fungus finds ideal growth conditions in the microclimate between wet soil and snow cover.

Golf courses and sports fields are among the hardest hit. At Holstebro Golf Club, greenkeeper Ronny Carøe described large patches of withered, grey grass across the fairways. “Visually, it’s frustrating, but these are the conditions we’re dealing with—especially after a winter with persistent snow cover,” he said. While chemical treatments can be applied to smaller greens, larger areas must rely on preventive measures like reducing moisture and improving airflow.

Football stadiums are also affected. At MCH Arena in Herning, the pitch shows visible damage, though matches continue as scheduled. Karsten Paaske, head groundskeeper and chair of Groundsman Association Denmark, acknowledged the unsightly appearance but noted that play remains possible even with reduced grass coverage.

Nicholson warned that climate change may increase snow mold outbreaks in future winters. He recommended overseeding damaged areas with fungus-resistant grass varieties to improve long-term resilience.