Green Giant Arborvitae Dying After Planting: Burlap String Left On, Overwatered

Two Fatal Errors

Burlap string not cut → girdles trunk as it swells. Must cut tie after positioning in hole.
Overwatering: 2×/day × 20 min = waterlogged sandy soil. Roots rot.

Hole 2× root ball, backfill with topsoil.
Cut string, pull back burlap from top (remove plastic burlap/wire entirely).
Mulch 3".
Water 1" per week (pan test). Once weekly unless rain. Sandy soil drains fast—don't compensate with frequency.

Nursery warranty (usually 1 year) should cover replacements. Demand proper planting on round two.

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