Avoiding Pallet Burn: Tips for Fresh Turf Installation

Avoiding Pallet Burn: Tips for Fresh Turf Installation

When it comes to laying fresh turf, timing is everything! At Wild Horse Turf, we want your new lawn to flourish, and that starts with understanding how to avoid “pallet burn”—an issue that can affect the quality of your turf if not handled properly.

What Is Pallet Burn?

Pallet burn occurs when turf stays stacked on a pallet for too long, especially in hot weather. Turf in the center of the pallet can begin to decompose due to a lack of air circulation and the build-up of heat, which essentially “cooks” the grass from within. This leads to patches of browned or even dead grass that might struggle to recover once laid.

Why Timing Matters

Grass is a living plant, and, like any plant, it needs light, air, and water to survive. Once cut and stacked, the grass on the pallet is vulnerable to damage if left in a hot, confined stack. The longer it stays on the pallet, the higher the risk of pallet burn, which can set back the look and health of your new lawn.

Preventing Pallet Burn: Install Turf the Same Day

The best way to avoid pallet burn is to install your turf as soon as it’s delivered—the very same day. Same-day installation allows the turf to get back onto the soil where it can begin taking up nutrients, air, and water again, reducing the risk of heat buildup and damage.

Here are a few tips to make your installation day go smoothly:

  1. Prepare the Area in Advance: Make sure your soil is leveled, watered, and ready for the turf before it arrives.
  2. Schedule Delivery Carefully: Try to plan the turf delivery for a time when you’re ready to lay it immediately.
  3. Work Quickly in Hot Weather: In warmer months, pallet burn can set in even faster, so have a team or extra help ready to expedite the process.
turf showing signs of pallet burn

A Beautiful Lawn, No Burn

Following these simple steps can make all the difference in ensuring a lush, healthy lawn without the risk of pallet burn. At Wild Horse Turf, we’re here to provide high-quality turf and advice to help you enjoy your outdoor spaces to the fullest!

Have questions about turf installation or need some advice? Reach out to us—we’re here to help make your lawn project a success from start to finish. Give us a call: 0754969790.

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Order fresh, premium  turf grown in the Glass House Mountains and delivered across Brisbane & the Sunshine Coast.

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Whether you’re laying new turf or looking after an established lawn, our blog is packed full of helpful insights to keep your grass healthy, lush, and the envy of the neighbourhood.

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Growers of premium turf in Queensland

Wild Horse Turf is a family owned and operated business with a focus on growing 4 varieties of quality turf suited to Australia’s unique climate. 
In addition to turf sales, we offer turf delivery and installation to locations in the Sunshine Coast & Brisbane. 
Located in the Glass House Mountains in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Wild Horse Turf doesn’t grow the most grass, it grows the best grass!

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Your new lawn in 5 simple steps

1

Choose your turf variety

Use our turf selector, chat to us on the phone, or visit our Glasshouse Mountains QLD farm in-person to view our 4 turf varieties. Well help you decide what turf variety is best for you.

2

Measure &
order

Use our turf calculator to determine the quantity of turf you will require. Then order online via our shop or call us to order.

3

Prepare your 
soil

Before your turf is delivered, it’s important to prepare the soil properly so your lawn can establish quickly and grow strong.
Read our blog article ‘how to prepare your site for turf’ for detailed instructions.

4

Delivery or
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We’ll deliver your turf on your chosen date. 
Alternatively you may collect your turf directly from our farm on your chosen date.

5

Install &
care

Install your turf yourself or use our turf laying service.
Turf should be installed within 12 hours of delivery. Once installed, ensure turf is watered thoroughly. 
Follow the instructions in our blog article ‘caring for your new lawn’ to keep it healthy and thriving.

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