Planting Trees Wrapped in Burlap: A Guide for Beginners
Introduction
If you’re looking to add some trees to your backyard, you may be wondering whether to choose balled and burlapped trees or container-grown trees. Balled and burlapped trees are less expensive and weigh less than container-grown trees. They’re also easier to transport and plant.
What Are Balled and Burlapped Trees?
Balled and burlapped trees are trees that are grown in the field. When they’re ready to be sold, their root balls are dug out and wrapped in burlap. This helps to keep the root ball together and protect the roots during transport and planting.
Advantages of Planting Balled and Burlapped Trees
There are several advantages to planting balled and burlapped trees:
- They’re less expensive than container-grown trees.
- They weigh less than container-grown trees, making them easier to transport and plant.
- They’re easier to plant than bare root trees.
- They have a higher survival rate than bare root trees.
Disadvantages of Planting Balled and Burlapped Trees
There are also a few disadvantages to planting balled and burlapped trees:
- They may not be as well-established as container-grown trees.
- They may be more susceptible to transplant shock.
- They may require more watering and care after planting.
How to Plant a Balled and Burlapped Tree
Planting a balled and burlapped tree is relatively easy. Here are the steps:
- Choose a planting site that is at least three times as wide as the root ball and as deep as the root ball is tall.
- Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the root ball is tall.
- Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil.
- Tamp down the soil around the tree to remove any air pockets.
- Water the tree deeply and regularly.
Do You Remove Burlap When Planting a Tree?
Whether or not you remove the burlap when planting a tree depends on the type of burlap. Natural burlap will rot into the soil, so you can leave it on. Synthetic burlap will not rot, so you should remove it before planting.
How to Remove Burlap from a Balled and Burlapped Tree
To remove burlap from a balled and burlapped tree, use a sharp knife to cut the burlap away from the root ball. Be careful not to damage the roots.
Caring for a Balled and Burlapped Tree
After planting, your balled and burlapped tree will need some care to help it establish itself. Here are some tips:
- Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first growing season.
- Mulch around the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize the tree according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Prune the tree as needed to remove dead or diseased branches.
Conclusion
Planting balled and burlapped trees is a great way to add some trees to your backyard without spending a lot of money. By following the tips in this guide, you can help your tree thrive for many years to come.
