Do You Plant Arborvitae With Burlap

Yes, you can plant arborvitae with burlap, but you must handle the burlap properly to avoid root problems.

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The burlap around the root ball is meant to protect the roots during transport, not to stay intact in the ground.

If you plant arborvitae with burlap still wrapped tightly, it can restrict root growth and cause girdling.

In this post, we’ll cover whether you should plant arborvitae with burlap, how to handle the burlap correctly, and tips for a successful planting.

Let’s dig in.

Do You Plant Arborvitae With Burlap? What You Need to Know

When you plant arborvitae with burlap, the burlap can become a problem if left fully intact.
 
Many gardeners ask if you need to remove burlap before planting, and the answer depends on the burlap type.
 
Here’s what happens if you plant arborvitae with burlap wrapped tight.
 

1. Burlap Can Restrict Roots

Arborvitae roots need to spread outward after planting.
 
If you plant arborvitae with burlap that is tied tightly around the root ball, the burlap acts like a cage.
 
Roots struggle to push through the material, especially if the burlap is synthetic and doesn’t break down.
 
This restriction can stunt growth and even kill the tree over time.
 

2. Synthetic Burlap Doesn’t Decompose

Not all burlap is created equal.
 
Natural jute burlap will rot in the soil within a few months, but many modern burlaps are made from polypropylene or other plastics.
 
When you plant arborvitae with burlap made of synthetic fibers, the material stays intact for years.
 
This creates a permanent barrier that roots cannot escape, leading to a pot-bound root system underground.
 

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3. The Risk of Girdling Roots

Girdling happens when a root encircles the trunk or another root, cutting off circulation.
 
If you plant arborvitae with burlap that has a tight knot or twine around the stem, that twine can girdle the tree.
 
Even if the burlap itself loosens, the twine often remains, slowly strangling the arborvitae.
 
Always cut away any twine or wire baskets when planting arborvitae with burlap.
 

How to Properly Plant Arborvitae With Burlap

Now that you know the risks, let’s talk about the right way to plant arborvitae with burlap.
 
Follow these steps to give your tree the best start.
 

1. Inspect the Burlap Type

Before you plant arborvitae with burlap, check what the burlap is made of.
 
Natural jute feels rough and fibers break apart easily when pulled.
 
Synthetic burlap feels smooth and doesn’t tear.
 
If it’s synthetic, you must remove as much as possible before backfilling.
 
If it’s natural jute, you can leave it but still need to loosen it.
 

2. Remove or Roll Down the Burlap

After placing the arborvitae in the hole, cut the twine and peel the burlap down from the top.
 
For natural burlap, you can roll it down to the bottom of the root ball so it stays buried.
 
For synthetic burlap, cut it away completely and remove it from the hole.
 
When you plant arborvitae with burlap, never leave the burlap exposed above ground because it will wick moisture away from the roots.
 

3. Backfill and Water Well

Once the burlap is handled, backfill the hole with the original soil.
 
Do not add amendments unless the soil is very poor.
 
Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
 
Mulch around the base, but keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk.
 
If you plant arborvitae with burlap correctly, the tree will establish quickly.
 

Common Mistakes When Planting Arborvitae With Burlap

Even experienced gardeners make errors when they plant arborvitae with burlap.
 
Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid.
 

1. Leaving Burlap Exposed Above Ground

Some people leave the burlap visible above the soil line for aesthetic reasons.
 
But when you plant arborvitae with burlap exposed, the burlap acts like a wick and draws moisture from the root ball.
 
This dries out the roots and stresses the tree.
 
Always ensure the burlap is completely covered by soil or removed.
 

2. Forgetting to Cut the Twine

The twine that holds the burlap in place is often forgotten.
 
If you plant arborvitae with burlap and leave the twine tied around the trunk, it will eventually girdle the tree.
 
Cut the twine at the top and also any loop that goes around the stem.
 
Remove or pull it away to prevent future problems.
 

3. Planting Too Deep

Another mistake when you plant arborvitae with burlap is setting the root ball too deep.
 
The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
 
If you bury the trunk, the bark can rot and the tree may die.
 
Check the depth before backfilling, and adjust if needed.
 

So, Do You Plant Arborvitae With Burlap?

Yes, you can plant arborvitae with burlap, but only if you take the proper steps to manage the burlap.

And this Miracle-Gro All Purpose Fertilizer on Amazon can be a practical addition for you, so click the link to check it out.

The key is to remove synthetic burlap entirely and to loosen or roll down natural burlap so roots can grow freely.

Always cut the twine and avoid leaving burlap exposed above ground.

By following these guidelines, your arborvitae will thrive and provide beautiful greenery for years.

Happy planting.