How To Wrap An Arborvitae With Burlap

To wrap an arborvitae with burlap, you need to do it carefully to protect it from winter damage and heavy snow.
 
Wrapping an arborvitae with burlap is a simple DIY task that shields the tree from harsh winds, ice, and sunscald.
 
If you’re wondering how to wrap an arborvitae with burlap correctly, the process involves a few key supplies and techniques.
 
This guide will walk you through how to wrap an arborvitae with burlap step by step so your tree stays healthy through the cold months.
 
Let’s get into the details of how to wrap an arborvitae with burlap effectively.
 

How to Wrap an Arborvitae With Burlap: The Basics

Understanding how to wrap an arborvitae with burlap starts with knowing why it’s needed in the first place.
 
Wrapping an arborvitae with burlap prevents the foliage from drying out, known as winter burn, caused by cold winds.
 
The burlap acts as a breathable barrier that traps heat while still letting air circulate.
 
Here’s what you need to know before you start wrapping an arborvitae with burlap:
 

1. Choose the Right Burlap and Tools

To wrap an arborvitae with burlap, you’ll need natural burlap fabric, not plastic or synthetic material.
 
Plastic traps moisture and can cause mold or rot under the wrap.
 
Natural burlap is breathable, so moisture won’t get trapped.
 
Gather twine or garden wire, scissors, and stakes if the arborvitae is tall or exposed.
 
The tools are simple and you likely already have them at home.
 

2. Measure the Burlap Correctly

Measure the height and width of your arborvitae before cutting the burlap.
 
You want enough fabric to wrap the whole tree, but not so much that it drags on the ground.
 
A good rule when learning how to wrap an arborvitae with burlap is to cut the burlap twice as tall as the tree.
 
This allows you to fold the top over or gather it at the base.
 
For a typical 5-foot arborvitae, a 10-foot long piece of burlap will do.
 

3. Wrap From Top to Bottom

Start wrapping an arborvitae with burlap at the top, leaving a small opening for light and air.
 
You can leave the very top slightly exposed to avoid suffocating the plant.
 
Drape the burlap over the crown and then work your way down the sides.
 
Wrap the burlap loosely around the foliage, pulling it gently so it conforms to the shape.
 
Tight wrapping can break branches or hold moisture against the needles.
 
Use twine to secure the burlap in place every 12 inches or so.
 

When to Wrap an Arborvitae With Burlap

Timing is part of how to wrap an arborvitae with burlap effectively.
 
You don’t want to wrap too early in the fall because the tree needs time to harden off.
 
Wait until after the first hard freeze when temperatures drop consistently below freezing.
 
Late November or early December is usually the sweet spot for most cold climates.
 
In spring, remove the wrap as soon as the danger of heavy snow and frost has passed.
 
Leaving burlap on too long in spring can overheat the tree and encourage fungal growth.
 

1. Avoid Wrapping During Wet Weather

If you’re learning how to wrap an arborvitae with burlap, never do it when the foliage is wet.
 
Wet needles trapped under burlap will freeze and rot.
 
Only wrap when the tree is dry, ideally in the morning after dew has evaporated.
 

2. Don’t Wrap in Extreme Wind

Wrapping on a windy day makes the fabric hard to control and can damage branches.
 
Choose a calm day to make the job easier and safer for your tree.
 

Common Mistakes When Wrapping an Arborvitae With Burlap

Even with the best intentions, people sometimes mess up how to wrap an arborvitae with burlap.
 
Avoid these pitfalls to keep your arborvitae healthy all winter.
 

1. Wrapping Too Tightly

Tight burlap compresses the branches and stops airflow.
 
This leads to broken limbs and moisture trapped against the needles.
 
Always wrap loosely so the arborvitae can still breathe.
 

2. Using Plastic Instead of Burlap

Plastic sheeting might seem waterproof, but it creates a greenhouse effect that cooks the tree on sunny winter days.
 
Burlap is the only material to use when you wrap an arborvitae with burlap.
 

3. Forgetting to Secure the Bottom

If the bottom of the burlap flaps open, wind will get inside and undo all your work.
 
Wrap the burlap around the base and tie it with twine at the ground level.
 
You can also stake the burlap into the soil if needed.
 

4. Leaving the Wrap On Too Long

In spring, as soon as nighttime temperatures stay above freezing, remove the burlap.
 
Leaving it on encourages mold, pests, and overheating.
 

So, How to Wrap an Arborvitae With Burlap the Right Way

To wrap an arborvitae with burlap properly, you need to start with natural burlap, measure correctly, and wrap loosely from top to bottom.
 
Timing matters: wrap after the first hard freeze and remove it in early spring.
 
Avoid common mistakes like using plastic, wrapping too tight, or leaving the wrap on too long.
 
With these steps on how to wrap an arborvitae with burlap, your tree will survive winter beautifully.
 
Now you know exactly how to wrap an arborvitae with burlap and can protect your landscape investment.