Free homeowner worksheet
Lawn Observation Worksheet
Brown grass has more than one possible cause. Record the pattern and recent changes so an assessment starts with evidence. Repeat photos from the same position to show what changed.
Waves Pest Control · Updated
Describe the patch
- Date first noticed:
- Grass type, if known:
- Location and approximate width:
- Shape: scattered, circular, along an edge, or across an irrigation zone?
- Is the affected area sunny, shaded, wet, or dry?
Record water and maintenance
- Recent rainfall or standing water:
- Irrigation days and run times:
- Broken heads, missed coverage, or overlapping spray:
- Last mowing and any recent fertilizer, herbicide, or insecticide:
- Other changes: construction, foot traffic, shade, or pet activity:
Collect comparable evidence
- Take an overview photo plus a close-up at the boundary of healthy and affected grass.
- Photograph visible insects without assuming they caused the damage.
- Write down whether the patch is spreading or staying the same.
- Keep the original photo dates and repeat from the same position.
Ask before choosing a treatment
- What evidence separates insect damage, disease, and irrigation stress?
- Would an in-person inspection or a turf sample help confirm the cause?
- Which maintenance changes apply to this lawn and grass type?
- What should be monitored after the assessment?
Patch shape alone cannot confirm a lawn disease or pest. This worksheet does not prescribe watering, fertilizer, pesticide rates, or treatment timing.