Seasonal Shelter: Wrapping Shrubs in Burlap for Winter Protection

Winter can be tough on landscape shrubs, especially in southeast Michigan with our cold winds, heavy snow, and fluctuating freeze-thaw cycles. Burlap wraps are a practical, affordable way to protect vulnerable shrubs from desiccating winds, sunscald, and salt damage. Below is a comprehensive guide to choosing burlap, preparing plants, installing protection, and maintaining it through winter.

Why burlap works for shrubs

• Windbreak and sun protection: Burlap creates a microclimate around the shrub, reducing moisture loss and sun exposure during freezing days.
• Physical barrier: It dampens the harm from blowing snow, ice and road salt.
• Budget-friendly and reusable: Burlap is inexpensive, readily available, and can be reused for multiple winters if stored properly.

Choosing the right burlap

• Material: Look for breathable burlap made from natural fibers such as jute or sisal. These fabrics allow moisture to escape, compared to plastic.
• Density: Medium-weight burlap provides adequate protection without overly restricting airflow.
• Size: For most shrubs, use burlap rolls or panels large enough to wrap around the entire shrub with several inches of overlap. Ensure you have enough to cover the canopy.

When to wrap

• Timing varies by each fall, but aim to wrap when nighttime temps consistently hover near or below freezing.
• For deciduous shrubs, you may wrap after the leaves drop to allow time for fall leaf clean-up.

Shrub prep before wrapping

• Prune properly: Remove dead, diseased, or damaged wood.
• Water beforehand: Hydrate plants well in late fall, giving them time to take up water before the ground freezes. Well-hydrated shrubs tolerate winter stress better.
• Check the canopy: Ensure branches not overly dense, consider selectively thinning to improve airflow before wrapping, if needed.

Wrapping techniques

• Basic wrap method:

• Measure and cut burlap: Slice a panel large enough to wrap around the shrub with at least 3 - 6 inches of overlap.
• Create a safe base: If the shrub has a low-lying trunk or root flare, you can encircle the base with the burlap to shield the lower trunk as well.
• Encase the canopy: Drape the burlap panel around the shrub, overlapping on the windward side to block cold winds while allowing some airflow on the leeward side.
• Secure loosely: Use natural fiber twine, soft zip ties, or garden stakes with fabric ties to hold the burlap in place. Do not cinch tightly around branches; allow space for air to circulate and for moisture to escape.

• Windbreak panel method:

• Construct a temporary frame using wooden stakes or lightweight metal poles around the shrub.
• Staple or tie burlap to the frame, creating a protective envelope that leaves gaps at the bottom for air flow.

• Cone or sleeve approach for tall shrubs:

• For columnar or tall shrubs, wrap burlap in a cone or sleeve shape from the top downward, leaving the lower trunk exposed to reduce moisture buildup.
• This method works well for eastern red cedars, arborvitae, and similar species with slender forms.

Placement considerations

• Avoid full enclosure: Completely sealing a shrub can trap heat and moisture. Leave ventilation gaps at the top or along the sides or bottom.
• Orientation matters: Position the burlap to shield the windward side mainly, where most damage occurs.
• Question of evergreen vs deciduous:

• Evergreens often benefit from burlap wraps as protection against desiccating winter winds, snow damage and road salt.
• Deciduous shrubs also benefit, especially if they are growing in a spot exposed to high winds or near a roadway.

Special cases and tips

• Snow load management: If heavy snows accumulate, ensure you can remove the snow load to prevent limb breakage.
• Color and aesthetics: Burlap comes in various tones. If the wrap is visible for months, choose a color that blends with your garden or use decorative garden twine to improve appearance.

Maintenance through winter

• Check monthly: Inspect wraps after storms or steady snowfall. Re-tie as needed, reseal gaps, and replace any worn fabric.
• End-of-winter removal: Remove burlap between late March and mid-April. Store burlap clean and dry for next season.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Over-tight wrapping: Tight wraps can put undue pressure on branches that could then break if snow or ice accumulates on the burlap.
• Non-breathable materials: Plastic sheets trap moisture and promote freeze-thaw cycles by creating a greenhouse effect between the shrub and plastic sheet.
• Leaving wraps on too long: Remove the burlap wraps before new growth resumes in the spring.

Cost and sustainability considerations

• Burlap is affordable and renewable, but it can degrade over several seasons. Inspect for fraying and replace as needed.
• Repurposing materials: Old burlap sacks or repurposed natural fiber fabrics can extend your options. Dry and store dry between seasons to maximize lifespan.

Pros and cons at a glance

• Pros: Inexpensive, breathable, customizable, reusable with proper care.
• Cons: Requires maintenance; may not fully protect shrubs in extreme cold.

A simple plan to get started this season

• Step 1: Inspect shrubs and decide which varieties need protection based on species, exposure and vulnerability.
• Step 2: Gather materials: medium-weight burlap, twine or soft ties, scissors, and optional wooden stakes for a frame.
• Step 3: Prepare plants: water adequately in the preceding days, prune as needed, and check for existing damage.
• Step 4: Wrap using a breathable, loose method that protects the canopy without completely sealing off ventilation.
• Step 5: Monitor monthly and adjust as weather changes. Remove before new growth starts in the spring.

What to include in your winter protection plan

• A quick garden map noting which shrubs are wrapped and how.
• A checklist for materials and replacement fabric.
• A calendar reminder for wrapping, monthly checks, and removal in the spring.

If you need your shrubs wrapped before winter, drop us a message or give us call today at 800-724-6680.