[4] In overcast, rainy conditions between 32 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, the pathogen thrives, and grows under snow covering wet turf in unfrozen soil.
Then, when exposed to cool temperatures and a wet environment, such as in early spring during snow melt, it forms fruiting bodies (sporocarps) or mycelium and begins to spread.
[7] Symptoms of the pathogen often manifest in all species the same way; as circular patches 6 inches to a foot in diameter of dead or damaged turfgrass.
[5][8] Signs of the disease can include visible mycelium on turf after snow clears and dark brown or black sclerotia structures embedded in dead plant tissue.
The sclerotia (identifiable by their distinct rind patterns) begin germination under correct temperature and UV light conditions.
[8] Physically, snow mold can be managed by keeping grass cut to proper height recommendations.
It may also be recommended to improve light exposure and air circulation by removing dense foliage such as trees or shrubs in the area.
[10] Typhula blight is commonly found in United States in the Great Lakes region and anywhere with cold winter temperatures and persistent snow fall.
[1] Like gray snow mold, it is able to survive the summer months in decayed plant debris as spores or mycelium.