How To Burlap Arborvitae

To burlap arborvitae, you wrap the tree in burlap fabric to shield it from harsh winter elements.
 
Many gardeners choose to burlap arborvitae for protection against snow, ice, and drying winds.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to burlap arborvitae properly, this guide covers every step.
 
Properly burlapping arborvitae prevents winter burn and keeps branches intact.
 
Knowing how to burlap arborvitae ensures your evergreens survive the cold months healthy.
 
In this post we’ll explore why and how to burlap arborvitae with practical tips.
 
Let’s get into the details of burlapping arborvitae so you can do it yourself.
 

How to Burlap Arborvitae Properly

Why Burlap Arborvitae Is Essential

Burlapping arborvitae stops winter burn from strong winds and bright sun.
 
When you burlap arborvitae, you reduce moisture loss through the foliage.
 
This is critical for young trees that haven’t established deep roots yet.
 
Burlap also supports branches so heavy snow doesn’t snap them.
 
Using burlap for arborvitae is a simple way to avoid costly replacement later.
 

Materials You Need to Burlap Arborvitae

To burlap arborvitae, gather natural burlap fabric, twine or rope, and scissors.
 
Some homeowners also use wooden stakes or landscape staples for anchoring.
 
Avoid plastic because it traps moisture and causes rot on your arborvitae.
 
Having the right supplies makes burlapping arborvitae much faster and easier.
 
Check that your burlap is wide enough to wrap around the tree completely.
 

How Much Burlap to Use for Arborvitae

For a small arborvitae, one standard roll of burlap often suffices.
 
For larger specimens you may need two or more pieces laid side by side.
 
Always add a few extra inches so you can overlap the seams securely.
 
Measuring first saves time and prevents running out mid-wrap when burlapping arborvitae.
 

When to Burlap Arborvitae for Best Results

Timing Your Burlapping Arborvitae

The best time to burlap arborvitae is late autumn after the first hard frost.
 
If you burlap arborvitae too early, heat and moisture can encourage mold.
 
If you wait too long, snow and ice may already cause damage.
 
Aim for a dry day in November once trees are fully dormant.
 
This timing ensures your how to burlap arborvitae efforts protect without harming.
 

Weather Conditions to Consider

Only burlap arborvitae when the foliage is completely dry.
 
Wet foliage under burlap can lead to fungal diseases on your arborvitae.
 
Choose a calm day so the burlap doesn’t blow around while you work.
 
Cold but not freezing temperatures make burlapping arborvitae more comfortable.
 

Step-by-Step Guide to Burlapping Arborvitae

1. Measure and Cut Burlap

Start by measuring the height and girth of your arborvitae.
 
Cut burlap pieces about 6 inches longer than the height to allow tucking.
 
For width, measure the circumference and add overlap of at least 8 inches.
 
Accurate cutting is a key part of how to burlap arborvitae effectively.
 

2. Position the Burlap Around the Tree

Stand the burlap against the arborvitae, starting from one side.
 
Gently wrap it around the tree without pulling or compacting the branches.
 
Overlap the edges to create a continuous barrier that stays in place.
 
Work slowly so you don’t break any stems while burlapping arborvitae.
 

3. Secure the Burlap with Twine

Tie the burlap at the base first, using soft twine that won’t cut bark.
 
Wrap the twine around the arborvitae in a spiral up to the top.
 
Keep the tension light so the burlap can breathe and branches aren’t crushed.
 
Knot the twine securely at the top to hold everything together.
 
Proper securing is vital when you burlap arborvitae for winter protection.
 

4. Anchor the Bottom

Gather the excess burlap at the base and tuck it under soil or mulch.
 
Use landscape staples or small rocks to keep the bottom from lifting.
 
Anchoring prevents wind from flipping the burlap off your arborvitae.
 
This final step completes your how to burlap arborvitae process.
 

Common Mistakes When You Burlap Arborvitae

Wrapping Too Tightly

A common error in burlapping arborvitae is cinching the twine too tight.
 
Tight wrapping can snap branches or trap moisture against the foliage.
 
Always leave a little slack so the arborvitae can shift naturally in wind.
 

Using Plastic Instead of Burlap

Plastic tarps are sometimes used, but they destroy many arborvitae.
 
Plastic traps heat and condensation, promoting mold and root rot.
 
Stick with natural burlap when you burlap arborvitae for breathability.
 

Burlapping Arborvitae Too Late in Winter

If you wait until deep snow, burlapping arborvitae becomes very difficult.
 
Snow already on branches can break them when you try to wrap.
 
Plan ahead so you burlap arborvitae before the worst weather arrives.
 

So, How to Burlap Arborvitae?

To burlap arborvitae, you measure, wrap, secure, and anchor the burlap correctly.
 
This straightforward method protects your arborvitae from winterburn and snow damage.
 
When you follow these steps for burlapping arborvitae, your trees stay healthy all season.
 
Remember to use natural burlap, wrap loosely, and time it after the first frost.
 
Hope this guide on how to burlap arborvitae helps you keep your evergreens thriving.