Is It OK to Plant Trees in Burlap?

Planting trees is an excellent way to contribute to your community’s health and also to the environment. When planting trees, the question arises whether it's OK to plant trees in burlap or not.

What is Burlap?

Burlap is a woven coarse material made from jute, hemp, or flax. It's also known as hessian cloth, sackcloth, or gunny cloth. Burlap is commonly used for wrapping trees for shipment and transplantation because it lets air, water, and nutrients to pass through. It also helps to prevent transplant shock by reducing the risk of the tree's roots from damaging during the transportation process.

Why is Burlap Used for Transplanting Trees?

Burlap is used for transplanting trees because it's easy to handle, and it's an excellent tool for preventing a tree from losing soil during transportation. In addition, burlap reduces the change of transplant shock.

The Benefits of Planting Trees in Burlap

When planting trees in burlap, it's important to note that there are several benefits. Firstly, burlap helps to protect the tree's roots from damage during the transportation process. Secondly, burlap helps to prevent the tree's root ball from losing soil during the transportation process, which can greatly increase the tree's chances of survival. And finally, burlap can help to prevent transplant shock.

The Disadvantages of Planting Trees in Burlap

When planting trees in burlap, there are certain disadvantages that need to be taken into account. Firstly, the burlap doesn't decompose easily, which can lead to problems in the future. Secondly, the synthetic materials used in burlap can present long-term hazards to the tree's roots. It's important to remove the burlap and any synthetic strings, twine, or staples before planting.

The Bottom Line

While planting trees in burlap may have its benefits, it's important to weigh its disadvantages against the advantages. The key to successful tree transplantation is careful consideration of the tree's needs, including the type of soil and the amount of water required to thrive. In conclusion, it's OK to plant trees in burlap, but it's important to ensure that the burlap and any synthetic materials have been removed first. Otherwise, the tree may suffer long-term harm.