Snow Mold, Desiccation, and Crown Hydration: How Southern Lawn Owners Can Protect Their Grass

For those of us who are used to snowy winters, the thought of needing to protect grass from snow has likely never even crossed our minds. We know the deal. Grass goes dormant in the winter, turning a brown or pale color, all normal during this period when temperatures are too cold for grass to grow. However, for people living in the southern United States, who aren’t used to snowy winters, but have recently been hit by an unusual storm, it makes sense to wonder, What can I do to protect my grass from the snow? Well, we've got some answers for you. Spoiler: Snow isn’t likely to do permanent damage to your grass, with the right care. 

Are There Any Risks to Having Snow Fall on My Grass?

If you’re not used to snow, you might think that snow will damage or kill your grass. The reality is that no, it won’t kill it, although there might be some controllable damage. Brian Feldman, senior director of field operations at TruGreen, explains that “between the ice, snow, wind, and freezing temperatures, your lawn and plants are presented with many challenges over the winter months. Some of the most common issues caused by snow are desiccation, snow mold, and crown hydration.”

Desiccation

Desiccation is a lack of proper moisture associated with dry conditions from late fall throughout the winter months, which can lead to dry grass. Feldman says, “A good rule of thumb is to water your lawn when it is still above 40 degrees Fahrenheit with no rain in the forecast.”

Snow Mold

A vast amount of snow can lead to some of your grass developing a “snow fungus.” It is commonly seen in cool-season grasses. (You won’t see any signs until the spring, when temperatures start to warm up.) That said, a good amount of snow also acts as an insulation layer, protecting your grass roots from freezing temperatures.

Crown Hydration

This is the opposite of desiccation. It primarily occurs in the late winter, after various thawing and freezing cycles. During thawing periods, frost melts as temperatures rise slightly, and plants “assume” it is spring and absorb the water. The issue occurs when temperatures drop and the melted snow refreezes, leading the “grass crown to potentially rupture cell membranes and damage, or even kill, the grass. Crown hydration appears as large patches of discolored turf and is common in poorly-drained areas. Crown hydration issues can occur on both cool- and warm-season turf," Feldman explains.

Can You Protect Grass From Snow?

Yes, here’s what you need to do.

1. Preventive care is key. Lawns that are aerated and cut short in the fall fare best in the winter. 
2. If you know a snowstorm is coming, prepare your lawn before the storm arrives. Remove any leaves and debris from your lawn. This can create brown and bare patches as moisture is trapped.
3. After the snow falls, to ensure it melts evenly across the lawn, avoid piling or blowing snow onto your grass when clearing it from your driveway or sidewalk.  
4. Avoid using ice melt near the grass. “Excessive salt will cause roots and lawn tissue to burn, nutrients and water to become unavailable, and also impact the soil health,” Feldman notes. These ice melt products are safer for plants and grass.

Related: Clover Lawns Require Way Less Water and Mowing Than Grass, and They're Greener. Here’s How To Make the Switch

Should I Cover My Lawn With a Tarp?

No, you don’t need to cover your lawn with a tarp. But if you’re inclined to cover your grass with a tarp because a social media video inspired you, here is what you need to know. 

• Lay a piece of tarp on your lawn and secure it with pins in all corners. The wind can blow it away if you don’t. 
• Once the snow has stopped, remove the tarp and shake it off. Don’t wait until the snow has melted. If you leave the tarp down, you risk burning or killing your grass. 

Related: The Best Grass Seed for Clay Soil and How to Prep Your Lawn for Planting

Is It a Good Idea to Cover the Grass Before It Snows?

You don’t need to cover your grass to protect it from the snow. The snow is temporary, and your grass will be fine. Avoid shoveling your snow onto the grass, as it can create large piles. When it melts, it can cause excess moisture and snow fungus, leading to brown or gray spots. 

Is There Anything You Can Do to Save Grass Once It’s Been Snowed On?

You can remove big piles of snow, but otherwise, once it has snowed, enjoy it, play in it, and let the natural cycle of thawing and melting run its course. Know that your grass blades are very fragile and may break when you step on them after a snowstorm, but they will recover.