Why Is My Lawn Turning Brown Even Though My Sprinklers Are Running?

One of the most common calls we receive this time of year is from homeowners wondering why their lawn is developing brown or dry spots even though the sprinkler system appears to be working properly.

The truth is, there are several possible causes.

1. Broken or Clogged Sprinkler Heads

A sprinkler head may be damaged, clogged with debris, or not rotating correctly. This can leave portions of the lawn without adequate water while other areas receive too much.

2. Improper Sprinkler Coverage

Over time, sprinkler heads can settle, tilt, or become blocked by grass growth. When sprinkler patterns no longer overlap correctly, dry spots begin to appear.

3. Timer or Programming Issues

We often find timers set incorrectly after power outages, battery failures, or accidental changes. A zone may not be running long enough, or it may not be running at all.

4. Insect Damage

Certain lawn insects can damage grass roots, causing turf to turn brown and pull up easily. In some cases, the lawn looks drought-stressed even when it is receiving enough water.

5. Underground Leaks

A leak in the sprinkler system can reduce water pressure and prevent sprinklers from operating efficiently. Sometimes the leak is obvious, but other times it remains hidden underground.

6. Heat Stress

As summer temperatures rise in Southern Idaho, lawns can struggle during periods of extreme heat. Even healthy lawns may require adjustments to watering schedules to keep up with changing weather conditions.

What Should You Do?

If you're noticing brown spots, don't assume your lawn simply needs more water. Overwatering can create additional problems. The best approach is to inspect the sprinkler system, evaluate watering coverage, and determine whether insects or other issues are contributing to the damage.

At One Call Property Solutions, we regularly inspect lawns for irrigation issues, insect activity, and other common causes of turf decline. Catching the problem early can often save both water and repair costs.

Have questions about your lawn? Give us a call and we'd be happy to help.

One Call Property Solutions (208) 490-6713 or email us with questions at onecallps@gmail.com