Landscape & Maintenance News: Understanding Lawn Stress & Hot Spots

As North Texas summer temperatures remain high, residents may notice areas of turf throughout the community that appear dry, stressed, or less green than surrounding landscapes. While some seasonal stress is expected during periods of extreme heat, our Landscape & Grounds team continues to carefully manage irrigation to support the health of Stonebridge Ranch’s established landscaping while using water resources responsibly.

Prioritizing Water Where It Matters Most

During the summer months, thoughtful irrigation management becomes especially important. Areas that are bare or have little to no established vegetation are not prioritized for irrigation. Instead, available water is directed toward areas with established turf, plants, trees, shrubs, and other vegetation where it can provide the greatest benefit.

Vegetated areas throughout the community continue to receive irrigation as part of our regular watering program, with conditions monitored and adjustments made as needed.

What Are Lawn “Hot Spots”?

Residents may also notice small areas of turf that appear significantly drier or more stressed than the surrounding grass. These areas are commonly referred to as “hot spots.”

Hot spots can develop even when an irrigation system is operating properly. Certain areas of a lawn may simply lose moisture more quickly or require additional water due to environmental and site-specific conditions.

Common causes of hot spots include:

• Extreme heat and direct sunlight – Areas receiving prolonged sun exposure can dry more quickly during periods of high temperatures.
• Uneven irrigation coverage – Sprinkler patterns, surrounding landscaping, or other factors can result in variations in water distribution.
• Competition from trees and established vegetation – Large trees and mature plants may compete with nearby turf for available moisture.
• Soil conditions and compaction – Compacted or challenging soil conditions can affect how efficiently water is absorbed and retained.
• Wind exposure – Wind can increase evaporation and cause certain areas to lose moisture more rapidly.
• High-traffic areas – Frequent foot traffic can place additional stress on turf and contribute to soil compaction.

How to Recognize a Hot Spot

Hot spots are typically noticeable when a smaller section of grass begins to turn lighter green, yellow, or brown, or appears wilted and dry while the surrounding turf remains healthier.

These variations do not necessarily indicate that an entire irrigation zone is not receiving water. Instead, they may reflect localized conditions that cause certain areas to experience stress more quickly.

Managing Landscapes Through the Summer Heat

Our Landscape & Grounds team continues to monitor irrigation systems, turf conditions, and landscaped areas throughout Stonebridge Ranch. As summer temperatures remain high, some variation in lawn color and appearance is expected.

By directing water toward established vegetation and monitoring areas experiencing additional stress, we can help protect the community’s landscaping while remaining mindful of responsible water use.

Thank you for your understanding as we continue working to keep Stonebridge Ranch’s common areas healthy, attractive, and well-maintained throughout the summer season.

Maintenance Update

• Playgrounds & Gazebos: Staff is currently evaluating the condition of all community playgrounds and gazebos to identify potential repairs and improvements. Findings will be used to develop a prioritized project list based on need and to help guide planning for the 2027 budget.
• Quail Creek Fountain: The Quail Creek Fountain is currently out of service. Lonestar is scheduled to assess and service the fountain early next week.
• La Cima Fountains: An estimate for the La Cima Fountains has been submitted to the Board and is currently awaiting review and approval before work can proceed.
• Plaza Electrical Upgrades: Bob Owens Electric is scheduled to be onsite Wednesday to complete the remaining work associated with the Plaza electrical upgrade.