Do You Need To Wrap Arborvitae In Winter

Do you need to wrap arborvitae in winter?
 
The short answer is yes, you may need to wrap arborvitae in winter, but it depends on where you live and how harsh your winters get.
 
Many gardeners ask if they need to wrap arborvitae in winter because these evergreens can suffer from snow, ice, wind, and sunscald.
 
Wrapping arborvitae in winter is a protective measure that shields them from heavy snow loads, freezing winds, and winter burn.
 
In this post, we’ll break down when you need to wrap arborvitae in winter, when you can skip it, and how to do it right.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

Why You Might Need to Wrap Arborvitae in Winter

You need to wrap arborvitae in winter mainly to prevent damage from three common threats.
 

1. Protection from Heavy Snow and Ice

Arborvitae have a dense, upright growth habit that catches snow and ice easily.
 
When snow piles up, branches can splay outward or even snap under the weight.
 
Wrapping arborvitae in winter with burlap or a loose wrap holds branches together so snow slides off rather than accumulating.
 
This is especially important for young or newly planted arborvitae that haven’t developed strong stems yet.
 

2. Preventing Winter Burn from Wind and Sun

Winter burn is a common issue when cold winds and bright winter sun dry out the foliage faster than the roots can replace moisture.
 
If you need to wrap arborvitae in winter, a burlap screen blocks harsh winds and reduces sun exposure.
 
This keeps the needles from turning brown and crispy by spring.
 
Wrapping arborvitae in winter is especially crucial if your arborvitae face an open, windy area or are exposed to south or west sun.
 

3. Shielding from Animal Damage

Deer, rabbits, and other critters love to nibble on tender arborvitae foliage during winter when food is scarce.
 
When you wrap arborvitae in winter, the physical barrier stops animals from reaching the branches.
 
If you’ve had deer or rabbit problems before, wrapping arborvitae in winter is a smart way to protect your investment.
 

When Wrapping Arborvitae in Winter Isn’t Necessary

Not every arborvitae needs wrapping.
 
Here are situations where you likely don’t need to wrap arborvitae in winter.
 

1. Mature, Established Trees

Older arborvitae have thicker bark, stronger branches, and deeper root systems that handle winter conditions better.
 
If your arborvitae have been in the ground for several years without issues, you probably don’t need to wrap arborvitae in winter.
 
But keep an eye on heavy snow forecasts — even mature trees can split under extreme loads.
 

2. Mild Winter Climates

If you live in zones where winter temperatures stay above freezing and snow is rare, wrapping arborvitae in winter is unnecessary.
 
In USDA zones 7 and warmer, winter burn is seldom a problem, and snow loads are light.
 
Check your local climate: if you rarely see snow or prolonged freezes, you can skip wrapping arborvitae in winter.
 

3. Arborvitae Planted in Sheltered Spots

If your arborvitae are planted near a building, fence, or other windbreak, they already have some protection.
 
In these cases, you may not need to wrap arborvitae in winter because the shelter reduces wind and sun exposure.
 
But still watch for heavy snow accumulating on top — occasional brushing off snow might be enough.
 

How to Properly Wrap Arborvitae in Winter

If you decide you need to wrap arborvitae in winter, follow these steps to do it correctly.
 

1. Use Burlap, Not Plastic

Burlap breathes, allowing air circulation and preventing condensation that can lead to mold.
 
Plastic traps moisture and heat, which can damage the tree when the sun comes out.
 
Always choose natural burlap when you wrap arborvitae in winter.
 

2. Wrap Loosely to Avoid Breaking Branches

Tying burlap too tightly compresses branches and can cause breakage.
 
When you wrap arborvitae in winter, leave some slack so the tree can move slightly in the wind.
 
Start from the bottom and work upward, overlapping layers slightly.
 

3. Secure, But Allow Airflow

Use twine or rope to hold the burlap in place, but don’t cinch it so tight that air can’t pass through.
 
The goal of wrapping arborvitae in winter is to reduce wind and snow load, not to seal the tree airtight.
 
Leave the top open if possible unless snow accumulation is extreme — a small opening lets moisture escape.
 

4. Remove the Wrap in Early Spring

As temperatures warm and the risk of heavy snow passes, take off the wrapping.
 
Leaving burlap on too long can encourage pests, rot, or overheating as the sun gets stronger.
 
Check your arborvitae in late March or early April, and remove the wrap once night temperatures reliably stay above freezing.
 

So, Do You Need to Wrap Arborvitae in Winter?

You do need to wrap arborvitae in winter if you face heavy snow, harsh winds, or deer pressure.
 
But if your arborvitae are mature, in a mild climate, or planted in a sheltered spot, you can probably skip it.
 
Wrapping arborvitae in winter is a simple, effective way to protect your trees from winter burn, snow damage, and hungry animals.
 
Assess your specific conditions and decide if you need to wrap arborvitae in winter this year.
 
Give your arborvitae the care they need, and they’ll reward you with lush green growth come spring.