Answering the following questions will help you verify whether or not you are dealing with an abiotic (non-living) problem

• Is the problem across the entire lawn or confined to one small area?
• Widespread problems are usually abiotic.

• Is it in the shade? Or the full sun?
• If a problem is confined to an area with similar environmental characteristics, it’s likely that problem is due to the environment.

• Is the problem at a high spot? Or a low spot? Or on a slope?
• The elevation of the land can indicate if the problem area is due to excessive moisture or dryness.

• Is it the problem only on the south facing side of the property? Or the north facing side?
• South facing areas are often exposed to the sun for most of the day and can experience heat or drought stress. North facing areas can be shaded for most of the day and experience cool temperatures or extended periods of moisture.

• Is the soil where the problem is different from the rest of the soil on the property?
• Having different soil types on the same property is common. Not all soils drain the same or hold the same types of minerals.