Do You Leave the Burlap On When Planting a Tree?

Planting a tree is not just about digging a hole and sticking a sapling in the ground. There are various factors to consider to ensure that the tree grows well and stays healthy for years to come. One of these factors is whether you should leave the burlap on when planting a tree. Let's delve into the topic and find out the answer to this crucial question.

The Importance of Burlap in Tree Planting

Burlap is a type of biodegradable fabric commonly used in tree planting. The material is wrapped around the root ball of trees to hold the soil and plant roots in place during transportation and installation. The burlap also provides some additional benefits that make it an essential part of tree planting.

For instance, the burlap reduces water evaporation from the plant roots and soil, which helps the tree retain moisture long enough to establish itself. Burlap also protects the roots and soil from erosion, prevents mechanical damage during transportation, and helps the tree stay upright.

Should You Leave the Burlap On?

The answer to the question of whether to leave the burlap on when planting a tree is not a straightforward one. Your decision depends on the type of burlap used, the age and health of the tree, and the planting method.

If the tree is young, healthy, and not root-bound (i.e., the roots grow in circles around the container), you can safely remove the burlap and plant the tree without it. Remove any strings or ties from the burlap and gently pull it away from the tree's root ball. If the burlap refuses to come off, cut it away with clean scissors without damaging the roots or trunk.

On the other hand, if the tree is mature, root-bound, or having trouble establishing itself, leaving the burlap on may be best. These trees may have already formed a symbiotic relationship with the burlap, and removing it may cause unnecessary stress or damage.

However, if you opt to leave the burlap on, make sure to remove any synthetic materials such as nylon or plastic. These materials do not degrade naturally and may cause harm to the tree and the environment.

Final Considerations on Using Burlap

Whether you decide to remove or leave the burlap on, there are some final considerations to keep in mind when planting a tree.

First, do not bury the tree too deep. The root collar, the area where the roots meet the trunk, should be visible above the soil line. Burying the tree too deep can affect the tree's health, growth, and stability.

Second, water the tree adequately after planting. Newly planted trees need frequent and consistent watering until they establish a root system.

Finally, mulch around the tree to retain moisture, prevent soil compaction, and reduce weed growth. However, do not heap the mulch against the trunk, as this can cause bark rot and attract pests.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether to leave the burlap on when planting a tree depends on the tree's age, health, and planting method. While the burlap provides some benefits such as moisture retention and erosion prevention, it may also cause harm if left on older or root-bound trees. Remember to take care when removing or leaving the burlap, avoid burying the tree too deep, water it adequately, and mulch around it to keep it healthy and thriving for years to come.