When Planting a Tree, Should the Burlap Be Removed?

When planting a tree, there are many questions that come to mind. Should you add fertilizer to the soil? How often should you water the tree? And one of the most common questions: should the burlap be removed?

The Purpose of Burlap Around Trees

Before we answer this question, let's first understand the purpose of burlap around trees. When trees are being grown in nurseries, they are often placed in burlap bags to make it easy to transport them from one location to another. The burlap also helps keep the root ball intact and prevent soil from falling out of the bag.

When the tree is ready to be planted in its permanent location, the burlap bag is left around the root ball to ensure the roots remain moist and protected during the planting process.

Should You Remove the Burlap When Planting a Tree?

Now the question is, should you remove the burlap when planting a tree? The short answer is yes, you should remove the burlap from around the root ball when planting a tree.

While the burlap is helpful in keeping the tree roots protected during transport and planting, it can also cause problems in the long-term health of the tree if left in place. As the tree grows and expands its root system, the burlap can become a barrier and prevent the roots from spreading out properly.

In addition, the burlap can actually cause the root system to grow in circles instead of outward, which can also impact the overall health of the tree.

How to Remove the Burlap Around a Tree

So, if you're planting a tree and have decided to remove the burlap, how should you go about it? First, look for any twine or wire that may be securing the burlap. Cut these first to avoid any damage to the tree roots.

Next, cut away as much of the burlap as possible. You may even choose to remove the entire material from the root ball. If this is the case, gently remove the burlap without pulling on the tree roots.

It's also important to note that if the burlap has been treated with chemicals, it's best to remove the material completely to prevent any negative impact on the soil composition.

Conclusion

When planting a tree, it's important to take all necessary steps to ensure the long-term health of the tree. While burlap can be helpful during transport and planting, it's best to remove the material from around the root ball to allow for proper growth and root spread. With the right technique, removing the burlap can be done quickly and efficiently, ensuring a healthy tree for years to come.