Transplanted Spruce Care: Root Collar Exposure, Burlap Removal, and Watering

Professionally transplanted 6-7 foot spruces (balled-and-burlapped, wire basket) have conflicting advice on soil coverage over the root ball. The owner pulled added soil back from the trunk but left it around the ball edges.

Critical Corrections Needed

Root Collar Must Be Visible

The top of the root ball (root flare) must be level with surrounding grade. Soil against the trunk causes bark rot, girdling roots, and decline. Remove all excess soil from the trunk flare.

Burlap and Wire Must Be Removed

Both should have been removed at planting. Burlap (especially treated) can persist for years, impeding root egress. Wire baskets restrict root expansion and can girdle major roots. If still present, carefully cut away as much as possible without disturbing the ball.

Mulch Properly

Apply 2-3 inches organic mulch (pine straw ideal for conifers) in a wide ring, kept off the trunk.

Watering Schedule for Off-Season Planting

Since this was planted out of season (likely summer/fall):

• Water deeply: 1 inch per application (pan method)
• Every 3 days for 1 month
• Every 4 days for 1 month
• Weekly thereafter until ground freezes

Conifers transpire year-round. Winter desiccation is a major risk for fall-planted evergreens—water until freeze-up.