Burlap is a coarse, woven fabric traditionally made from the natural fibers of the jute plant, a renewable resource. This material is widely used in gardening for tasks like weed suppression, erosion control, and wrapping the root balls of trees and shrubs for transport. Because burlap is a plant-based material, it is biodegradable, meaning that soil microorganisms can eventually break it down. This article will explore the variable timeline for burlap’s decomposition and the specific factors that accelerate or slow this natural process.
The Typical Decomposition Timeline
The decomposition rate of natural, untreated burlap can vary, typically ranging from a few weeks to up to two years. When buried directly in moist, biologically active soil, the microbial activity readily attacks the cellulose and lignin in the jute fibers. Under ideal conditions, a single layer of untreated burlap can begin to disintegrate noticeably within a few weeks and be substantially decomposed within three to eight months.
The time frame changes significantly when burlap is exposed to the air or is not in direct contact with soil microorganisms. Burlap left exposed to the elements, or in a dry environment, will decompose much more slowly, often taking a year or more. The thickness of the material plays a role, as a heavy-grade fabric will require more time to break down than a thin, loosely woven sheet.
Environmental Factors Influencing the Decay Rate
Several environmental variables determine how quickly the burlap’s lignocellulosic structure is broken down. Moisture is the most significant factor, as the microbes responsible for decomposition—primarily bacteria and fungi—require water to thrive and process the fibers. Wet burlap breaks down substantially faster than dry burlap because the hydration makes the cellulose more accessible to microbial enzymes.
Temperature also plays a role, with warmer conditions accelerating the metabolic rate of the decomposing microorganisms. The process is slowed considerably in cold or frozen soil, meaning decomposition is often seasonal in cooler climates. The quality of the soil itself is important, as rich soil with a high concentration of active microbes will degrade the material faster than poor, sterile soil. Additionally, burlap that has been chemically treated to resist rot can remain intact for a year or much longer, sometimes for several years.
Techniques for Speeding Up Breakdown
To accelerate the breakdown of burlap, several interventions can optimize the environment for microbial activity. Reducing the physical size of the material is the most direct way to speed up decomposition, as smaller pieces have a greater surface area for bacteria and fungi to colonize. Shredding or cutting the burlap into small strips before burial or composting can significantly shorten the timeline.
Ensuring the burlap remains consistently saturated is also helpful, as microbes cannot work effectively in dry conditions. Soaking the material before incorporating it into the soil or a compost pile provides an immediate boost to the decomposition process. When adding burlap to a compost heap, it acts as a carbon-rich “brown” material that should be balanced with nitrogen-rich “green” materials like grass clippings or food scraps. Turning the compost pile regularly introduces oxygen, which is necessary for the aerobic bacteria that break down the jute fibers.
Benefits of Decomposed Burlap as a Soil Amendment
The decomposition process yields a beneficial outcome for soil health, as the broken-down jute fibers become organic matter. This added organic material improves the overall structure of the soil, helping to prevent compaction and increasing aeration. The decaying fibers also act like a sponge, enhancing the soil’s ability to retain moisture and hold onto nutrients.
As the burlap breaks down, it releases the carbon and nutrients stored within the plant fibers back into the soil, slowly contributing to fertility. This process supports a healthy soil food web by feeding the microorganisms that are fundamental to plant vitality. Using untreated burlap ensures that this amendment is clean and free of synthetic chemicals, making it a preferred choice over non-biodegradable synthetic fabrics.