How to Protect Shrubs With Burlap

Landscape Shrubs

• 1

  Push stakes into the ground around your shrub--either four stakes as tall as your shrub all the way around or three stakes in a V-shaped configuration with the point of the "V" on the south or windward side of the plant. Bury stakes at least 8 inches into the ground and allow space around the shrub for air circulation.

• 2

  Unroll your burlap slightly and align the edge of the roll with one of your stakes. Staple the burlap to the stake at the top, bottom and middle.

• 3

  Run the burlap over to the next stake, pull the fabric taut and staple. Repeat until you reach your starting point and staple. If you are using a V-formation, stop at the third stake. Use scissors to cut the burlap off even with the stake. If your stakes are taller than the width of your burlap, apply another layer in the same manner. Remove in spring.

Potted Shrubs

• 4

  Bend chicken wire around the pot your shrub is in and secure into a cage. According to University of Nebraska Extension, this can apply to either evergreen or deciduous shrubs, both of which need protection because they are potted. Wait until after the first hard frost, when leaves have fallen.

• 5

  Fill the cage loosely with straw or dried leaves to serve as insulation around the plant.

• 6

  Wrap the exterior of the cage with burlap and secure with twine. Remove the wrap and insulation in spring.