How To Wrap Arborvitae With Burlap In Winter

You can wrap arborvitae with burlap in winter to protect them from snow, ice, and harsh winds.
 
This technique prevents winter burn, branch breakage, and damage from heavy snowfall.
 
Learning how to wrap arborvitae with burlap in winter is key to keeping your evergreens healthy all season.
 
It is a straightforward process that uses affordable materials and a little time.
 
In this post, we will cover exactly how to wrap arborvitae with burlap, the best timing, and common pitfalls to avoid.
 
Let’s get your arborvitae ready for winter.
 

How to Wrap Arborvitae with Burlap in Winter

The first step to wrap arborvitae with burlap in winter is gathering the right supplies.
 
You will need burlap rolls, natural twine, wooden stakes or bamboo poles, and a pair of scissors.
 
Some people also use landscape fabric staples to hold the burlap tight.
 
Once you have everything, you can start wrapping arborvitae in burlap efficiently.
 
Here is how to wrap arborvitae with burlap step by step.
 

1. Prepare the Arborvitae Before Wrapping

Before wrapping arborvitae with burlap, gently brush off any existing snow or ice from the branches.
 
Shake the branches lightly to remove excess moisture so the burlap stays dry.
 
Trim any broken or damaged limbs so the wrap fits smoothly around the tree.
 
This preparation makes the burlap wrapping more effective and reduces stress on the plant.
 

2. Drive Stakes Around the Tree

Insert three or four wooden stakes into the ground around the arborvitae, a few inches away from the branches.
 
These stakes will support the burlap and keep it from pressing directly against the foliage.
 
When you wrap arborvitae with burlap, the stakes create an air pocket that insulates the tree.
 
This air layer helps prevent winter burn while still allowing some airflow.
 

3. Wrap the Burlap Around the Stakes

Start at the base of the tree and wrap the burlap around the stakes in a spiral pattern.
 
Overlap each layer by about six inches to ensure no gaps remain.
 
When wrapping arborvitae in burlap, pull the fabric snug but not too tight against the stakes.
 
Continue spiraling upward until you reach the top of the tree.
 
Secure the top of the burlap with twine so it does not blow off in winter winds.
 

4. Secure the Burlap with Twine

Use natural twine to tie the burlap at the top, middle, and bottom of the wrap.
 
Tie the twine around the stakes and burlap to hold everything in place.
 
Make sure the burlap is not flapping loosely, as winter gusts can tear it away.
 
Check the ties after heavy snow or wind storms to keep the wrap secure.
 

When to Wrap Arborvitae with Burlap in Winter

Timing matters when you decide to wrap arborvitae with burlap in winter.
 
You want to apply the wrap after the ground freezes but before the first heavy snowfall.
 
In most regions, that means late November to early December is the sweet spot.
 
Wrapping too early can trap warmth and encourage fungal growth inside the burlap.
 
Wrapping too late leaves your arborvitae exposed to early winter storms.
 
Here are specific timing tips for wrapping arborvitae in burlap.
 

1. Watch the Weather Forecast

Wait until temperatures consistently stay below freezing at night.
 
If a snowstorm is forecasted in the coming days, it is time to wrap arborvitae with burlap.
 
Do not wrap during rain or wet snow, as moisture trapped inside can freeze and damage the tree.
 

2. Remove the Wrap in Early Spring

Take the burlap off in early spring when the threat of heavy snow has passed.
 
Usually, late March or early April works well for most climates.
 
Leaving the wrap too long can cause overheating and promote disease.
 
Gradually unwrap on a mild day to let the arborvitae adjust to open air.
 

Common Mistakes When Wrapping Arborvitae with Burlap in Winter

Even experienced gardeners sometimes make errors when they wrap arborvitae with burlap.
 
Avoid these common mistakes to get the best protection for your trees.
 

1. Wrapping Too Tightly

If you wrap burlap directly against the branches without stakes, it can snap limbs under snow weight.
 
Tight wrapping also reduces airflow and traps moisture, leading to rot.
 
Always use stakes when wrapping arborvitae in burlap to create a buffer zone.
 

2. Using Plastic Instead of Burlap

Plastic sheeting might seem convenient, but it does not breathe.
 
When you wrap arborvitae with burlap, the fabric allows air and moisture to pass through.
 
Plastic traps heat and condensation, which can cook the tree or encourage mold.
 
Stick with natural burlap for winter wrapping.
 

3. Forgetting to Secure the Top

A loose top on the burlap wrap lets snow pile directly onto the arborvitae’s crown.
 
This can cause the top branches to bend or break.
 
Tie the top of the burlap firmly but leave a small opening for ventilation.
 

So, How to Wrap Arborvitae with Burlap in Winter?

You can wrap arborvitae with burlap in winter to protect them from snow, ice, and drying winds.
 
This simple method prevents winter burn and branch damage when done correctly.
 
Start with stakes, then wrap burlap around them, and secure with twine for a tight hold.
 
Time your wrap after the ground freezes and remove it in early spring for best results.
 
Avoid tight wrapping, plastic materials, and loose tops to keep your arborvitae healthy.
 
Now you know exactly how to wrap arborvitae with burlap in winter, so your evergreens will thrive through the cold months.