Do you remove the wire basket when planting a tree?

Planting a tree is a gratifying experience that rewards the planter with numerous benefits ranging from improved air quality to aesthetic beauty. However, planting a tree demands a level of attention to detail to ensure that the tree roots take to the soil well, establish well and grow strong. One question that commonly confuses new planters is whether to remove the wire basket when planting a tree.

What is a wire basket and why is it used?

A wire basket is a metal container that surrounds the root ball of a tree during transportation and until it is planted. The basket is made of heavy duty wire mesh, burlap or sometimes a combination of both materials. The basket is designed to ensure that the root ball remains intact and does not break during transportation or planting. It also prevents the tree roots from spreading too far from the root ball during transport, which helps the tree establish more quickly when it's finally planted.

Do you remove the wire basket when planting a tree?

The answer to this question is yes and no. It depends on several factors such as the type of wire basket in use, the planting site and the size of the tree. Sometimes it is best to remove the wire basket, while at other times, it is better to leave it in place.

When to remove the wire basket

The wire basket should be removed when it is made of materials that do not easily decompose, such as plastic. The plastic mesh can impede the growth of the tree roots, and the tree may not establish well. A metal wire basket will rust and decompose naturally, but it may take a while. If a wire basket is left in place for too long, it can begin to constrict the roots of the tree and prevent it from growing, which can be detrimental to the tree's health.

When to leave the wire basket in place

Leaving the wire basket in place is only necessary when the wire basket is made of burlap or biodegradable materials that will decompose naturally over time. The burlap material will slowly disintegrate, providing enough space for the tree roots to grow and develop properly. Removing the burlap material may also cause the root ball to fall apart or damage some of the roots unnecessarily.

Conclusion

It is important to consider the type of wire basket in use and the planting site before deciding whether to remove the wire basket or leave it in place. When the wire basket is made of non-biodegradable materials such as plastic, it is best practice to remove it to prevent the wire mesh from impeding the growth of the tree. For biodegradable materials such as burlap, it is fine to leave the wire basket in place as the material will decompose over time, providing enough space for the tree roots to grow and develop into the soil.