How To Burlap Wrap Arborvitae

To burlap wrap arborvitae, you secure breathable fabric around the shrub before winter sets in to prevent snow and ice damage.
 
Learning how to burlap wrap arborvitae correctly can save your evergreens from broken branches and winter burn.
 
The process is straightforward once you understand the right technique and materials needed.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about how to burlap wrap arborvitae effectively.
 
Let’s dive right in so you can protect your trees this season.
 

Why You Need to Burlap Wrap Arborvitae for Winter Protection

Winter can be harsh on arborvitae, especially in areas with heavy snowfall.
 
Knowing how to burlap wrap arborvitae helps shield the foliage from freezing winds and sunscald.
 
Here are the main reasons this technique is essential.
 

1. Prevents Snow and Ice Buildup

Heavy snow can weigh down branches and cause them to snap.
 
A burlap wrap arborvitae method gently holds the branches together so snow slides off instead of collecting.
 
This reduces the risk of broken or splayed limbs that ruin the tree’s shape.
 

2. Shields Against Winter Burn

Winter burn happens when cold winds and bright sun dry out the foliage.
 
When you burlap wrap arborvitae, you create a barrier that slows moisture loss.
 
The fabric diffuses harsh sunlight while still allowing the tree to breathe.
 
This keeps the needles green and healthy until spring.
 

3. Protects from Road Salt and Deer

Arborvitae near driveways often suffer from salt spray that browns the leaves.
 
A burlap wrap arborvitae acts as a physical shield against salt and curious animals.
 
Deer love to nibble tender arborvitae tips, but burlap discourages them.
 

How to Burlap Wrap Arborvitae the Right Way

Now let’s get into the actual process of how to burlap wrap arborvitae.
 
You’ll need burlap fabric, twine, scissors, and possibly stakes for taller trees.
 
Follow these steps for a secure and effective wrap.
 

1. Gather Your Supplies

Start with natural burlap, not plastic, since plastic traps moisture and causes rot.
 
For a single arborvitae, a 4-by-12-foot piece of burlap usually works.
 
You’ll also need jute twine or soft garden tape to hold the fabric in place.
 
Stakes help anchor the wrap on taller or wind-exposed trees.
 

2. Gently Gather the Branches

Before wrapping, lightly pull the branches inward toward the trunk.
 
Don’t force them too tight, as that can damage the growth.
 
The goal when you burlap wrap arborvitae is to compress just enough to prevent snow loading.
 
Use a soft twine to loosely secure branches in a vertical position.
 

3. Wrap the Burlap Around the Tree

Start at the bottom of the tree and work your way upward.
 
Overlap each layer by at least six inches so no gaps remain.
 
As you learn how to burlap wrap arborvitae, keep the fabric snug but not tight enough to crush the foliage.
 
Continue wrapping until you reach just below the top crown.
 

4. Secure the Burlap with Twine

Tie the twine around the wrap at three or four points from bottom to top.
 
Make sure the twine doesn’t dig into the branches.
 
Leave the very top of the burlap loosely open for some air circulation.
 
This top opening is a key part of how to burlap wrap arborvitae correctly.
 

5. Add Stakes for Stability

For trees taller than five feet, drive three stakes into the ground around the tree.
 
Wrap the burlap around the stakes to keep it from blowing against the foliage.
 
This prevents wind from pressing the wet burlap directly onto the branches.
 
Staking is a pro tip many gardeners overlook when they learn how to burlap wrap arborvitae.
 

When Is the Best Time to Burlap Wrap Arborvitae

Timing matters when planning how to burlap wrap arborvitae for winter.
 
Wrap too early and the tree may still be growing, trapping moisture inside.
 
Wrap too late and the first snowstorm can already cause damage.
 

1. Late Fall After the First Hard Frost

Wait until temperatures drop consistently below freezing at night.
 
A good rule is to complete your burlap wrap arborvitae project around mid to late November.
 
By then, the tree has gone dormant and won’t be harmed by the wrap.
 

2. Remove the Wrap in Early Spring

Don’t leave burlap on too long into warm weather.
 
As soon as the snow melts and daytime temperatures stay above freezing, take it off.
 
Late March or early April is typical for most climates.
 
Leaving burlap on into May can encourage fungal growth and mildew.
 

Common Mistakes When You Burlap Wrap Arborvitae

Even with good intentions, it’s easy to make errors.
 
Avoid these pitfalls so your burlap wrap arborvitae efforts work well.
 

1. Wrapping Too Tightly

Tight wrapping smothers the foliage and can break branches.
 
Burlap wrap arborvitae should be snug but not restrictive.
 
Always leave a little space for air to circulate between fabric and needles.
 

2. Using Plastic Instead of Burlap

Plastic tarps trap moisture and heat, leading to mold.
 
Stick with natural burlap when you learn how to burlap wrap arborvitae.
 
The breathable fabric prevents condensation and keeps the tree healthy.
 

3. Wrapping the Entire Canopy Solid

Some people seal the top completely, which stops air flow.
 
Leave the very top of the burlap loosely open or pinched but not sealed.
 
This small detail makes a big difference in how well your burlap wrap arborvitae performs.
 

So, How Do You Burlap Wrap Arborvitae

To burlap wrap arborvitae, you gently gather branches and cover them with breathable fabric secured with twine.
 
Learning how to burlap wrap arborvitae takes just a few minutes per tree but offers months of protection.
 
The key is using natural burlap, wrapping loosely, and timing the job for late fall.
 
Avoid the common mistakes we covered, and your arborvitae will emerge healthy and full each spring.
 
Hope this guide helps you tackle this simple winter prep task with confidence.