Slime Mold

Disease

Many mycetozoans

Photos

snow mold 1.jpg

Slime molds are non-pathogenic fungi that occasionally dwell on many different turfgrass species. These saprophytes do nothing more than cause an unsightly appearance, and at most, may cause slight yellowing of tissue if persistent for several days.

Fruiting bodies can often be observed on the foliage of the grass, on clover and other weeds, and on the soil or thatch. Grayish white structures filled with purple spores which resemble ashes can often be found. Spots in the turf are usually irregular circles a few inches to a few feet (5 cm - 1 m) across. If wet, cool weather persists, large irregular areas may become covered with slime mold.

  • Crops Affected: turf

    Damage

    The location of this disease is home lawns and golf courses. General symptoms are a circle. Foliar symptoms dusting. This can occur during the months of March, April, May, June, July, August, September, and October. Hosts of the disease are Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Tall Fescue, Fine Fescue, Creeping Bentgrass, Annual Bluegrass, Colonial Bent, Annual Ryegrass, Rough Bluegrass, and Velvet Bentgrass.

    Management

    Slime mold can be readily managed with mechanical treatment. Poling, brushing, or dousing with a hose will sufficiently remove even heavy infestations of slime mold from turfgrass leaves.

    Chemical management is not necessary, and not recommended.

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