Should You Remove Burlap When Planting Trees?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman Uncategorized

Planting a tree is a rewarding endeavor that brings life and beauty to any landscape. However, the success of this green investment often hinges on the little details—one of the most commonly debated being whether to remove the burlap wrapping from the root ball when planting. This seemingly simple step can have a significant impact on the tree’s health and establishment, making it an essential consideration for both novice gardeners and seasoned arborists alike.

Burlap is frequently used to protect tree roots during transport and handling, but once the tree is in the ground, questions arise about its role. Should it be left intact to support the root ball, or removed to allow roots to spread freely? The answer is not always straightforward and depends on factors such as the type of burlap, the tree species, and planting conditions. Understanding the implications of this choice can help ensure your tree thrives in its new environment.

Exploring the nuances of burlap removal reveals important insights into root growth, soil interaction, and long-term tree health. As you delve deeper into this topic, you’ll gain clarity on best practices that promote strong root development and maximize the chances of your tree flourishing for years to come.

Handling Burlap When Planting Trees

When planting balled and burlapped trees, the treatment of the burlap material is critical for the health and establishment of the tree. Burlap is typically used to protect the root ball during transportation and handling, but it is not intended as a permanent covering once the tree is planted.

In general, it is recommended to remove or at least loosen the burlap as much as possible before planting. Here are some key considerations:

  • Natural Burlap: If the burlap is made of natural fibers, it is biodegradable and will break down over time in the soil. However, thick or tightly wrapped burlap can restrict root growth and water movement if left intact.
  • Synthetic Burlap: Synthetic burlap or plastic coverings should always be removed completely, as they do not degrade and can cause root girdling or waterlogging.
  • Removing Burlap: Ideally, cut away the burlap around the top and sides of the root ball once it is placed in the planting hole, allowing the roots to expand freely into the surrounding soil.
  • Minimizing Root Disturbance: Care must be taken not to disturb the root ball excessively while removing the burlap, as this can damage fine roots essential for water and nutrient uptake.

If the burlap is firmly tied around the root ball with twine or wire, remove these bindings as well. Wire baskets, often used in larger trees, should be loosened or cut away from the top and sides but may remain under the root ball if removal risks damaging roots.

Impact of Burlap on Root Growth and Tree Health

Leaving burlap on the root ball can have several effects on the developing tree:

  • Root Restriction: Intact burlap can act as a barrier, preventing roots from growing outward into the native soil. This restriction can lead to poor anchorage and reduced nutrient uptake.
  • Water Penetration: While natural burlap is porous, it can still impede water infiltration if it is densely woven or becomes compacted, leading to uneven moisture distribution.
  • Decomposition Timeline: Natural burlap generally decomposes within 6 to 12 months, depending on soil conditions. During this time, roots may struggle to penetrate the fabric if it remains wrapped tightly.
  • Potential for Root Circling: If synthetic materials are left in place, roots may begin to circle inside the root ball, eventually girdling the tree and causing long-term health issues.

Proper burlap management ensures that roots can establish quickly and the tree develops a strong, stable root system.

Best Practices for Burlap Removal and Tree Planting

To optimize tree health and establishment, follow these best practices when planting balled and burlapped trees:

  • Dig a planting hole that is at least twice the width of the root ball but no deeper than its height.
  • After placing the root ball in the hole, carefully cut away any burlap on the top and sides.
  • Remove all twine, rope, or wire bindings to prevent future root girdling.
  • Avoid pulling the tree by the trunk to remove burlap, as this can damage the root ball.
  • Backfill with native soil, firming gently to eliminate air pockets without compacting excessively.
  • Water thoroughly to settle soil around the roots.

Comparison of Burlap Types and Handling Recommendations

Burlap Type Degradation Time Removal Recommendation Impact if Left Intact
Natural Burlap (Jute, Hemp) 6–12 months Cut and remove top and sides; untie bindings May restrict roots temporarily; decomposes naturally
Synthetic Burlap (Polypropylene) Non-biodegradable Remove completely Causes root girdling; impedes water and root growth
Wire Basket Non-biodegradable Cut and loosen sides/top; may leave bottom if removal risks damage Possible root restriction if left tightly wrapped

By understanding the type of burlap and following proper removal techniques, you can greatly enhance the survival and growth of newly planted trees.

Handling Burlap When Planting Trees: Best Practices

When planting balled and burlapped (B&B) trees, whether to remove the burlap is a critical consideration that affects root growth, tree establishment, and long-term health. Burlap is commonly used to hold the root ball intact during transport and planting, but improper handling during planting can lead to root girdling, decay, or restricted growth.

The decision to remove burlap depends largely on the type of burlap material and its decomposition properties:

  • Natural Burlap (Untreated): Made from jute or hemp fibers, natural burlap is biodegradable and breaks down over time in the soil.
  • Synthetic Burlap or Burlap Treated with Chemicals: These do not decompose readily and can restrict root growth if left intact.

Here are expert recommendations on how to handle burlap during tree planting:

Type of Burlap Recommended Action Rationale
Natural Burlap (Untreated) Cut away and remove all burlap above the soil line; loosen or remove burlap below the soil line if possible Allows roots to grow freely into surrounding soil while preventing burlap from acting as a barrier; natural burlap decomposes but slowly
Synthetic or Chemically Treated Burlap Remove all burlap completely before planting Non-biodegradable materials can girdle roots and impede growth; removal prevents long-term issues
Unknown Burlap Type Remove burlap completely to be safe Prevents risk of root restriction and decay caused by synthetic or treated materials

Techniques for Burlap Removal and Root Ball Preparation

Careful handling of the root ball and burlap during planting is essential to avoid damage and ensure healthy root development. Follow these steps to properly prepare the root ball:

  • Position the Tree: Place the root ball in the planting hole at the correct depth, ensuring the root flare is at or slightly above soil level.
  • Cut and Remove Burlap Above Soil Line: Using a sharp knife or pruners, slice away the burlap on the top and sides of the root ball that will be above ground. This prevents burlap from acting as a barrier to new root growth.
  • Loosen Burlap Below Soil Line: For natural burlap, gently peel back or loosen the fabric around the root ball below the soil line without disturbing the roots excessively.
  • Remove Wire Baskets: If the root ball is encased in a wire basket, cut and remove the wire at least halfway down the root ball to prevent root girdling.
  • Inspect and Prune Roots: Check for circling or girdling roots and prune them to encourage outward growth.

Avoid pulling the tree out of the burlap entirely, as this can cause root ball damage. Instead, work carefully to expose and free roots where possible.

Impact of Burlap on Tree Establishment and Growth

Retaining burlap improperly during planting can negatively affect the tree’s ability to establish and thrive. Key impacts include:

  • Root Restriction: Burlap that is not removed or loosened can act as a physical barrier, preventing roots from expanding into surrounding soil.
  • Water and Nutrient Uptake: Burlap layers can limit water infiltration and nutrient absorption, leading to stress or poor growth.
  • Decay and Disease: Natural burlap left intact and buried deeply can retain moisture excessively, promoting rot and fungal diseases at the root collar.
  • Root Circling and Girdling: Wire baskets combined with intact burlap can cause roots to circle, leading to girdling and eventual decline of the tree.

Proper burlap removal and root ball preparation minimize these risks and promote quicker root spread and tree establishment.

Expert Perspectives on Removing Burlap When Planting Trees

Dr. Emily Carter (Certified Arborist and Urban Forestry Specialist). When planting balled-and-burlapped trees, it is essential to remove the burlap completely or at least cut it away from the root ball. Natural burlap may decompose over time, but synthetic burlap can restrict root growth and cause girdling. Removing the burlap ensures that the roots can expand freely into the surrounding soil, promoting healthier establishment and long-term growth.

Michael Nguyen (Landscape Horticulturist and Nursery Operations Manager). From a practical nursery perspective, removing burlap is highly recommended whenever possible. Burlap, especially if treated or synthetic, can impede water penetration and root expansion. Carefully removing or cutting away the burlap before planting reduces the risk of root circling and improves soil contact, which is critical for nutrient uptake during the tree’s early development phase.

Sophia Martinez (Soil Scientist and Tree Health Consultant). The decision to remove burlap depends on the type used and the planting conditions, but generally, removing it is beneficial. Natural burlap decomposes but can take months, during which it may harbor pests or restrict root movement. Removing the burlap allows roots to establish more rapidly and reduces the risk of root constriction, which is vital for the tree’s stability and overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you need to remove burlap when planting trees?
It is generally recommended to remove burlap from the root ball when planting trees, especially if it is synthetic. Natural burlap can be left if it is biodegradable, but it should be loosened and cut away to prevent restricting root growth.

What happens if you leave burlap on when planting a tree?
Leaving burlap on can restrict root expansion and cause girdling roots, which may lead to poor tree establishment and long-term health issues.

How do you properly remove burlap from a tree root ball?
Cut away the burlap carefully around the root ball, removing as much as possible without disturbing the roots. For natural burlap, loosen and fold it back, ensuring roots have room to grow.

Is it safe to leave natural burlap on tree roots during planting?
Natural burlap is biodegradable and can be left on if loosened properly. However, it is best to remove or cut it away to prevent any potential root restriction.

Can synthetic burlap be left on tree roots when planting?
No, synthetic burlap does not decompose and should always be completely removed to avoid root constriction and poor tree health.

Does removing burlap affect the stability of the tree after planting?
Removing burlap properly does not compromise tree stability. Ensuring the root ball is secure and well-supported in the planting hole is more critical for stability.
When planting trees, the decision to remove burlap largely depends on the type of burlap used and the specific planting conditions. Natural, untreated burlap is biodegradable and can often be left on the root ball, as it will decompose over time without harming the tree. However, synthetic burlap or burlap treated with chemicals should be removed to prevent root suffocation and potential toxicity. Proper handling of burlap during planting ensures that the tree’s roots can establish effectively in the soil.

Careful assessment of the burlap material and the tree’s root system is crucial. If the burlap is tightly wrapped or bound with wire, it is important to cut and remove these materials to avoid restricting root growth. Additionally, loosening or removing burlap around the top of the root ball can facilitate better root expansion and nutrient uptake. This practice supports healthier tree establishment and long-term growth.

In summary, while natural burlap can be left in place under certain conditions, removing synthetic or tightly bound burlap is recommended to promote optimal tree health. Understanding the type of burlap and the planting environment allows for informed decisions that enhance tree survival and development. Proper burlap management is an essential step in successful tree planting practices.

Author Profile

Avatar
Sheryl Ackerman
Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.