When Planting Trees, Do You Remove Burlap?

Planting trees is a wonderful way to add beauty, shade, and oxygen to your surroundings. But when it comes to planting trees with burlap, it can be a bit confusing whether to remove the burlap or leave it in place. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of both options, and offer some tips on how to plant trees with or without burlap.

The Case for Removing Burlap

Some experts argue that removing burlap when planting trees is essential for the long-term health and growth of the trees. Here are a few reasons why:

Burlap can restrict root growth: Burlap is meant to prevent soil erosion and keep the tree's roots moist. However, it can also create a barrier that prevents the tree's roots from growing beyond the burlap, stunting the tree's growth over time.

Burlap can hold moisture: While burlap is designed to keep the tree's roots moist, it can also hold water against the root ball for too long, leading to root rot or other fungal diseases.

Burlap can attract rodents: The organic material of burlap can attract rodents and other pests that may chew on the burlap, leading to further damage of the root ball or even the tree itself.

The Case for Leaving Burlap in Place

However, there are also those who argue that leaving burlap in place when planting trees is perfectly fine, and may even have some benefits:

Burlap can protect roots during transport: Burlap wrapped around the root ball can help protect the tree's roots during transportation, which can be particularly beneficial for trees that are being shipped long distances.

Burlap can provide a natural weed barrier: The layers of burlap and soil around the root ball can create a natural barrier against weeds and other unwanted plants that can compete with the young tree for nutrients and water.

Burlap can decompose over time: Although burlap is made of organic material, it is treated to resist rotting during transportation and storage. However, it will eventually decompose on its own, allowing roots to grow and expand beyond the root ball as needed.

Tips for Planting Trees with or without Burlap

If you decide to remove burlap when planting trees, make sure to do so carefully and without damaging the root ball. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

Use a sharp pair of scissors: Cut away as much burlap as possible without damaging the root ball.

Get rid of any synthetic materials: Remove any synthetic twine or ties that may constrict the root ball or cause damage over time.

Plant the tree at the correct depth: Make sure to plant the tree at the correct depth, with the root flare level with the surface of the soil.

Loosen any compacted soil: Gently loosen any compacted soil around the root ball to encourage root growth and make it easier for water to penetrate the soil.

Water the tree thoroughly: Water the tree immediately after planting to help settle the soil and hydrate the roots.

If you decide to leave burlap in place when planting trees, here are some additional tips to consider:

Make sure the burlap is natural: Opt for burlap that is made of natural materials, rather than synthetic fibers that may take longer to decompose.

Monitor the tree regularly: Keep a close eye on the tree for any signs of root rot, pest damage, or other issues that may arise over time.

Consider removing the burlap later: If you start to notice restricted root growth or other problems, you can always remove the burlap later on to address the issue.

Conclusion

In the end, the decision to remove burlap or leave it in place when planting trees is largely a matter of personal preference and local planting conditions. While removing burlap may offer some benefits, leaving it in place can also be a viable option when done properly. By following the tips and guidelines outlined above, you can ensure that your newly planted trees have the best chance of thriving and growing for years to come.