When to Cover Newly Planted Tree

Planting a new tree is a great way to add beautiful scenery to your garden or yard. But, it's important to keep in mind that newly planted trees require special attention and protection to ensure that they grow healthy and strong. One of the essential steps in caring for a newly planted tree is covering it. However, it's important to know when to cover a newly planted tree to avoid causing harm instead of good.

Why Cover a Newly Planted Tree

Before we dive into when to cover your tree, let's first understand why it's necessary to cover it. Newly planted trees have a vulnerable root system and are more exposed to harsh weather conditions, pests, and diseases. Covering the tree can provide a layer of protection against these elements, helping it grow healthier.

When to Cover a Newly Planted Tree

It's recommended to cover a newly planted tree for the first year after planting, particularly during the winter season or in extreme weather conditions. However, there are specific timeframes to consider when covering your tree, depending on the type of material you are using for the cover.

Burlap Cover

If you're using burlap to cover your newly planted tree, it's best to do so during the winter season. Burlap can protect the tree from winter burn, which occurs when the tree loses more water through its leaves than its roots can replace. Winter burn can cause damage to the tree's bark, branches, and even kill it. Burlap covers can also protect the tree from heavy snow and extreme temperatures.

Plastic Cover

On the other hand, if you're using a plastic cover to protect your tree, it's best to do so only for a short period. Plastic covers can raise the temperature around the tree, promoting early growth during the winter season. However, if the cover is left on too long, it can cause damage to the tree by blocking sunlight and trapping moisture underneath. For this reason, it's essential to remove the plastic cover as soon as the weather begins to warm up.

Mesh Cover

Mesh covers are recommended for newly planted trees during the growing season, particularly in the summer. Mesh covers not only protect the tree from pests and animals but also allow air and sunlight to penetrate through the cover, promoting healthy growth.

Conclusion

Covering a newly planted tree is a necessary step in caring for it during its initial growth phase. However, it's vital to understand when to cover your tree and what type of material to use. By following the guidelines above, you can ensure that your tree receives the proper protection it needs to grow healthy and strong.