How Long to Plant Burlap Wrapped Trees

Planting trees is a great way to enhance the beauty of your yard or to promote a healthier environment. However, planting a tree is not as simple as digging a hole and putting the tree in it. Specific steps should be taken to ensure the successful planting and growth of your tree. One of the essential questions that gardeners and landscapers ask when planting burlap wrapped trees is how long should they stay wrapped. This article will discuss helpful tips on how long to plant burlap wrapped trees so you can enjoy a healthy and robust tree for years to come.

What Are Burlap Wrapped Trees?

Burlap wrapped trees are trees dug out of the ground, with their root balls wrapped in a burlap bag. The burlap bag serves as a protective barrier that guards the tree’s roots during the transplantation process. It prevents the roots from drying out and breaking apart when the tree is moved from one location to another. The burlap helps to hold the soil and the roots together, making the tree more stable and easier to plant. The burlap wrapped tree must be planted promptly to ensure that the roots obtain moisture and nutrients from the soil as soon as possible.

How Long Should Burlap Stay Wrapped?

Burlap wrapped trees should only remain wrapped for a short period before they are planted. If the burlap stays wrapped around the tree’s roots for too long, it can cause the roots to become dry and eventually die. Experts recommend that the burlap wrapping should stay on the tree’s roots for no more than 24 hours after being transplanted. Within 24 hours, the tree should be planted in the desired location and watered thoroughly. In some cases, the burlap wrapping may not be removed when planting, as it biodegrades over time and enriches the soil.

Steps to Plant a Burlap Wrapped Tree

Planting a burlap wrapped tree is a process that requires patience and attention to detail. Here are some steps to follow when planting your burlap wrapped tree:

Choose a suitable planting location. Consider the tree’s growth requirements and choose an area with adequate sunlight and proper soil drainage.

Remove any burlap or wire that may be on the tree’s trunk. This will allow the tree to grow and develop freely.

Dig a hole that is as deep as and twice as wide as the root ball of the tree. This allows the roots to spread and grow into the surrounding soil.

Place the tree in the center of the hole and fill in the soil around the roots, making sure there are no air pockets. Use your fingers to gently pack the soil around the roots and the trunk of the tree.

Water the tree thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not saturated. Water regularly, especially during the growing season for the tree.

Mulch the tree to keep the soil moist and protect the roots from extreme temperatures. Apply a layer of two to three inches of mulch around the base of the tree.

Conclusion

Planting a burlap wrapped tree requires careful handling and timely planting. It is critical to remove the wrapping within 24 hours after transplantation and follow the proper steps for planting and care to ensure a successful outcome. With proper care and planting, your burlap wrapped tree will grow and flourish for years to come.