Brown spots on the lawn

Lawns usually develop brown spots because of faults in the sprinkler system. Mixed types of sprinkler heads, blocked spray patterns, improper spacing and the system's pressure can all affect your lawn.

Check that your sprinkler heads are level to grade, perpendicular to the slope of the lawn and not watering sidewalks, walls or patios. If grass blocks the spray, trim around the sprinkler head or install a taller 3- or 4-inch pop-up.

If your lawn looks great except for stressed areas in front of the sprinkler heads, the heads are too far apart. A device called an undercut nozzle can help; talk to an irrigation specialist if you decide to change out the nozzle.

Watering-system pressure also can cause brown spots. If your sprinkler system mists or has excessive water, the pressure could be too high. If the sprinklers display short spray patterns and reduced coverage, your pressure may be too low.

Hand water brown spots until the area improves.