Winterkill in the Upper Midwest 2025

What happened this winter?

Our winter in the Upper Midwest was far from typical. While snow mold has been virtually nonexistent this year, the real issues appear to stem from moisture-related damage, including:

• Desiccation: Drying out of plant tissues from exposure to wind and sun, especially in areas with little or no snow cover.
• Crown Damage: Repeated freezing and thawing can damage the growing point of the grass.
• Ice Cover: Prolonged ice can suffocate the turf, especially in low-lying or compacted areas.

One major factor was how the turf entered winter. A warm, dry fall—marked by record-breaking temperatures and low precipitation—left many lawns underprepared for the cold season. December 2024 capped off one of the warmest years on record in the Twin Cities. With below-average snowfall during the winter, many lawns were left exposed to fluctuating temperatures and drying winds, which pulled vital moisture from the plants.

Lawns in full sun, sandy soils, and on slopes were especially vulnerable due to faster drying and less moisture retention. Snowcover, when present, acts as a natural insulator—protecting turf from extreme cold and rapid changes in temperature. Without it, grasses are far more susceptible to winter damage.