Removing Trunk Wrap from Newly Planted Trees: When and Why

Trees planted last fall have felt wrap on trunks. The gardener asks when to remove it and its purpose.

Purpose of Trunk Wrap

• Shipping protection: Prevents bark damage during transport.
• Winter protection: Guards against sunscald (southwest injury) and rodent chewing.
• Not for insects.

When to Remove

• Remove in early spring (March–April) after last hard freeze.
• If tight or constricting, remove immediately. It can girdle the trunk, trap moisture, and harbor pests/disease.

Best Practice

Most arborists now recommend not wrapping at planting. Instead:

• Use a loose, white plastic tree guard for rodent protection (remove in spring).
• Paint trunk with white latex (diluted 1:1) for sunscald prevention.
• Mulch properly, keep grass away.

Contact the nursery for their specific recommendation, but err on the side of early removal.