It's a New Year; Time to Spring into Action!

As snow begins to melt, your lawn is vulnerable to this unsightly fungus called snow mold. There are two types of snow mold: a gray fungus and a pink fungus, which is potentially more damaging. When the area between the snow and the ground remains the same temperature for a lengthy period, it creates the perfect opportunity for a snow mold breeding ground, ultimately causing small patches of your grass to die. And fungal qualities may often trigger allergies for some.

Identifying snow mold is fairly simple. As weather conditions in Northern Illinois begin to dry, snow mold can appear as matted, crusty looking areas on your lawn. Mold will gradually disappear, leaving behind the appearance of weakened or even dead turf. Light raking can improve the air flow in these areas and help speed recovery.

Voles, also known as field mice, are often observed in the late winter/early spring, once the snow melts, when their grassy trails are exposed and patches of dead grass appear. These pesky little creatures cause the most harm to small trees and shrubs when they chew on the bark, often hidden below the snow. Vole damage is frequently mistaken for mole damage; however, moles are inactive during the winter.

The short-lived voles can produce 5-10 litters in a year, each averaging 3 to 5 young, with mild winters increasing their population. Yard sanitation, reseeding grass, tree guards, trapping and pesticide application are all preventative measures to help ensure a healthy lawn this spring.

Our experienced and knowledgeable staff will gladly provide a no-obligation estimate on managing your lawn as we transition into spring. Feel free to rely on our expertise to help ensure a healthy and beautiful lawn this year. Our office number is 815-332-9544. We look forward to serving you in 2021.

Debbie Walter - President, LawnCare by Walter