To Burlap or Not to Burlap: Winter Protection for Evergreens

As a landscape designer, I believe evergreens are essential garden elements—providing structure, focal points, and year-round color. Yet every winter, I see gardens cluttered with burlap-wrapped plants. The intention is noble: protect against winter sun and drying winds. But this practice is often unnecessary and sometimes counterproductive.

When Burlap Makes Sense

• Young evergreens, especially those planted late in the season, may need protection their first winter only.
• Winterburn often stems from frozen ground preventing water uptake, not just wind. The solution? Thorough fall watering right up until the ground freezes.

Better Alternatives for Evergreens

For cedars and other evergreens prone to snow/ice splitting, skip burlap. Instead, wrap with twine or—my preference—clear fishing line. It's nearly invisible, keeps branches tight against snow load, and preserves winter interest.

The Exception: Japanese Maples

This tender ornamental tree genuinely benefits from winter protection for its first two years. The proper method: water deeply into fall, then after leaf drop, drive four stakes 1.5–2 feet from the trunk and wrap burlap around the stakes to create a wind screen—not a tight wrap. This allows snow cover while blocking desiccating winds.

Location matters profoundly. My northeast-exposed front yard can't support Japanese Maples or cedars due to prevailing winter winds—I use yews instead.

The Bottom Line

Plant the right tree in the right spot. Water thoroughly into December. Use fishing line for evergreen snow protection. Reserve burlap only for young Japanese Maples in exposed sites. The result: a beautiful, burlap-free winter garden.