Required Materials
Wrapping a palm tree in burlap requires a few specific supplies such as burlap rolls, stakes or anchor pins, white glue, and scissors. All four of the different supplies essential to wrap a palm tree, are readily available in most home improvement stores. Before starting the wrapping process, it is important to measure the circumference of the palm tree so that you can purchase the correct amount of burlap and enough stakes or anchor pins. When selecting burlap, it is important to choose synthetic and weather-resistant burlap made of polypropylene or acrylic rather than jute or sisal burlap, as this type of burlap will allow the roots to breathe and protect the tree from extreme weather conditions.
Wrapping Procedure
The first step of wrapping a palm tree is to assemble the materials, which includes the burlap rolls, stakes or anchor pins, white glue, and scissors. Once the materials are gathered, it is important to cut the burlap into sections based on the circumference of the tree. Before cutting the burlap and staking it around the tree, it is recommended to glue the sections of burlap together and wait a few minutes for it to dry so that you can make sure the tree is neatly and securely covered in burlap.
Using the measurements that were taken before beginning the wrapping process, cut the burlap into sections that fit around the tree. When cutting the burlap, it is important to remember to leave a few extra inches in addition to the circumference of the tree. This extra bit of fabric allows for a snug wrap and prevents sections from slipping or coming undone when staked to the ground. To ensure that the burlap stays in place and does not come loose, it is important to secure the bottom edge of the burlap to the ground with stakes or anchor pins. These stakes should be placed about one foot away from the base of the palm tree and securely pressed into the ground.
Maintenance and Care
In addition to wrapping the palm tree, it is important to take care of the tree regularly and properly maintain it. This includes analyzing the condition of the tree, such as checking for signs of damage, disease, or pests. It is also essential to water and fertilize the tree regularly and trim the fronds as needed. Furthermore, it is important to check the burlap regularly. If the burlap has been in place for more than one season, it should be inspected and replaced if needed. Finally, it is important to mulch around the tree and remove any weeds that sprout up in the area.
Protecting from Winter Weather
If wrapping a palm tree in burlap for the winter time, It is important to inspect the tree for any damage or wear and tear. This includes checking for insect infestations, disease, or environmental damage. It is also important to properly prune and trim the tree for the winter time. After pruning and trimming, it is important to wrap the burlap around the tree securely and staple the burlap together in several places if necessary. This is especially important since burlap breaks down easily and can become tattered when exposed to extreme winter conditions. Furthermore, it is recommended to use a water-proof material underneath the burlap to protect the fronds from freezing.
Hot Weather Protection
Burlap is beneficial for hot summer months as well. Wrapping the palm tree with burlap during the hottest months of summer will provide added protection against the sun, heat, and any other extreme weather conditions. Just as with winter wrapping, it is important to inspect the burlap and tree regularly for any damage or signs of insect infestations or other diseases. Furthermore, it is important to remember to water the tree regularly and remove any weeds from the area.
Saving a Dying Palm Tree
If a palm tree is struggling and shows signs of disease, wrapping it in burlap can help improve its health. By providing a barrier between the elements, the tree can protect itself from environmental problems and give it a chance to recover. It is important to use synthetic and weather-resistant burlap in order to provide the tree with the most protection from the elements. Lastly, it is important to properly care for the tree once it has been covered in burlap. This includes making sure the tree is receiving proper water, fertilizer, and pruning as needed.
Insect Protection
Burlap wrapped around a palm tree can also be useful in providing added protection from insect infestations. By wrapping the tree in burlap, the tree can be somewhat isolated from the potential infestations and give the tree a chance to fight off any potential infections. It is important to inspect the tree regularly and remove any burlap that shows signs of discoloration or damage. If needed, the burlap should also be replaced when it becomes damaged or tattered.
Animal Protection
Wrapping a palm tree with burlap can also provide an added layer of protection from animals. This includes birds, squirrel, and other animals. If birds are becoming a problem, burlap can be a great deterrent. The burlap can be wrapped around the tree, with the loose end dangling near the ground, and tied around the bottom of the tree. This can help deter birds from perching on the palm tree, and squirrels and other animals from attempting to climb the tree.
