Add larger plants to your garden with a little care and these easy steps.
Trees sold with their roots in soil wrapped in burlap tend to be larger and more mature.
Sometimes the burlap-wrapped root ball is covered with a wire cage to stabilize it and make carrying easier.
When adding a tree, first consider sunlight and room for growth.
Although they’re more difficult to handle, B & B plants generally transplant successfully.
Today’s “new” burlap is made from synthetic fibers.
It’s difficult to detect and doesn’t decay in the soil.
Step 1.
Because most roots grow laterally, this will ensure unobstructed progress.
If the ball is encased in a wire cage, cut it away, too.
Then you could get at the burlap and remove it.
Step 2.
Examine the tree before you buy it.
Reject those with gouges, scrapes, or wounds on the trunk.
Look, too, forgirdling rootsencircling the base of the trunk under the burlap wrapping.
Step 3.
Spread a tarp for the soil.
Don’t add anything to the hole or soil.
Remove any protective outer wrapping.
Step 4.
Untie the branches to determine the most pleasing aspect.
Cut away as much burlap as you’re able to.
Roots grow laterally, so fabric under the ball can remain.
Step 5.
Fill in the hole.
Check the root ball level again and raise if it has sunk.
Finish filling the hole and firm the soil.
Step 6.
Form a ridge of soil just beyond the edge of the hole to create a water reservoir.
Water slowly and deeply.
Fill the reservoir and let it drain.
Step 7.
Spread mulch and unwrap branches.
They will take time to regain their normal attitude.
Apply tree wrap.
Step 8.
