How to Plant Burlapped Trees

Planting burlapped trees is one of the best ways to add beauty, shade, and privacy to your property. These trees come in large sizes and are shipped in burlap sacks, which helps to protect the roots from damage during transportation. But planting a burlapped tree can be tricky, especially if you are new to the process. In this article, we will guide you on how to plant burlapped trees, step by step.

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

The first step in planting a burlapped tree is to choose the right spot. You need to find an area that has good drainage, enough sunlight and enough space for the tree to grow. Avoid planting the tree too close to buildings, power lines or other trees, as this can cause problems as they grow larger.

Step 2: Dig the Hole

The next step is to dig a hole that is twice the width of the burlap sack and as deep as the root ball. Make sure you remove any rocks and debris from the hole before planting the tree. The soil should be loosened to allow the roots to grow easily.

Step 3: Remove the Burlap

Before planting the burlapped tree, you need to remove the burlap and any twine or wires that are holding it in place. Burlap is biodegradable and will eventually decompose, but it is important to remove as much of it as possible to avoid any obstacles to root growth. If the burlap cannot be removed, cut away the exposed part of the sack from around the base of the tree.

Step 4: Position the Tree

Center the root ball in the hole and make sure the tree is standing straight up. The soil level should be even with the top of the root ball. If you need to adjust the tree's position, do so before filling in the hole with soil.

Step 5: Backfill the Hole

Gently backfill the hole with soil, using your hands or a shovel. Tamp the soil lightly as you backfill to remove any air pockets. Stop partway through the process to water the tree, so that the soil settles around the roots.

Step 6: Apply Mulch

Apply about 3-4 inches of mulch around the base of the tree, making sure it does not touch the trunk. Mulch helps to keep the soil moist, suppresses weed growth, and encourages healthy root development.

Step 7: Water the Tree

Water the newly planted tree deeply and regularly during its first year to help establish its root system. Give it enough water to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be careful not to drown the tree.

Planting burlapped trees takes a bit of extra effort, but with the right technique, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy trees for years to come.