Slime molds on turf form what kind of mats when the masses dry?

• A. Green patches
• B. Black crusts
• C. Brown halos
• D. Gray, crusty mats

Answer: (D)

Slime molds go through a moist, slimy stage, feeding on decaying matter and microorganisms. When those masses dry out, they leave behind a gray, crusty mat across the turf. This dry crusty appearance is what you’ll see as the slime mold transitions from its wet phase. It’s not green patches, black crusts, or brown halos—the gray, crusty mats are the characteristic final form after drying. These organisms are generally not harmful to the grass, so management is usually about physical removal and reducing moisture rather than chemical control. Improve drainage, avoid overwatering, and brush or rake off the crusty mats if they bother you.