Do You Remove Burlap Before Planting a Tree?

Planting a tree in your garden is an excellent way to enhance the beauty of your landscape and provide a natural habitat for birds and wildlife. However, planting a tree may involve removing the burlap that is wrapped around the root ball of a tree. In this article, we will discuss the significance of burlap and whether you should remove it before planting a tree.

What is Burlap?

Burlap is a natural fabric made from jute fibers. It is commonly used for wrapping and protecting the root ball of a tree during transportation, handling, and planting. Burlap prevents the roots from drying out or getting damaged during transportation, and it also helps to keep the soil around the root ball intact, ensuring the proper transfer of moisture to the tree.

Should You Remove Burlap Before Planting a Tree?

There are two types of burlap - natural and synthetic. Natural burlap is biodegradable and can be left in the ground after planting. However, synthetic burlap does not decompose and should be removed before planting the tree. This is because synthetic burlap does not allow water to penetrate, which can cause the roots to dry out, ultimately leading to the death of the tree.

If you are unsure whether the burlap is natural or synthetic, it is better to be safe and remove it before planting the tree. It is also recommended to remove any strings, rope, or wire that may be used to secure the burlap to the root ball.

How to Remove Burlap Safely?

Before removing the burlap, ensure that the tree is in the correct planting location and the hole is at least twice the size of the root ball. Once you have confirmed the planting location, it is time to remove the burlap safely. Here are some steps to follow:

Loosen the burlap around the root ball with a box cutter or sharp knife. However, be careful not to cut into the roots.

Remove the strings, rope, or wire that may be securing the burlap to the root ball.

If the burlap is natural, you can leave it in place. If it is synthetic, carefully peel it away from the root ball and discard it.

Cut away any excess burlap that may be sticking out above the soil level. Burlap that is left above the soil level can act as a wick and cause the tree to dry out.

If the tree comes in a wire basket, remove it as well. The wire basket can constrict the growth of the tree roots if left in place.

Once you have removed the burlap, backfill the hole with soil and water the tree thoroughly. Ensure that there are no air pockets around the root ball.

Conclusion

Burlap serves an essential purpose in protecting the root ball of a tree during transportation and planting. Natural burlap can be left in place, while synthetic burlap must be removed to prevent damage to the roots. If you are uncertain about the type of burlap, it is best to remove it before planting the tree. Ensure that you follow the steps outlined above to remove the burlap safely and plant the tree properly.