Plan the perfect garden with our interactive tool →

Chemicals in Burlap

...
Photo by cmisak at morgueFile.com

Burlap is made from the fibrous jute plant, which is found in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Burlap is environmentally friendly because it is 100 percent biodegradable in its natural state. It is used to make sacks, table cloths, curtains and as a backing for carpet or linoleum, among other things. Normally, burlap is organic and chemical-free; however, there are several instances where chemicals are applied.

Copper Sulfate

Burlap wraps for trees and root balls are frequently used in nurseries. These burlap wraps are usually treated with copper sulfate to slow the growth of the plant roots they protect. Burlap material that is used in nurseries should not be reused for other purposes.

  • Burlap is made from the fibrous jute plant, which is found in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Fungicides/Pesticides

Some manufacturers treat their burlap bags with chemicals such as Compsol, an EPA-registered fungicide, to impede the growth of fungus and extend the life of the burlap. Eradicoat (latex-based polymer with permethrin) is a popular pesticide sprayed onto burlap tree bands to control gypsy moths (see Resources).

Dye

Several organic and inorganic dyes are used to give burlap color for home decorating. Rit Dye is an example of dye used on burlap, and it contains no hazardous substances. Dharma Trading Company offers natural dyes made from plants and insects (see Resources). Because most dyed burlap products will not specify what dye brand is applied, dyed burlap should not be used to hold food products.

Flame Retardants

Flame retardants like Flame Stop™ (pyrolytic formula) are occasionally applied to burlap, especially in commercial environments. Because burlap is made from jute, it is extremely flammable. Some flame retardants, including Flame Stop™, are non-toxic and inhibit mold and mildew growth.

  • Some manufacturers treat their burlap bags with chemicals such as Compsol, an EPA-registered fungicide, to impede the growth of fungus and extend the life of the burlap.
  • Rit Dye is an example of dye used on burlap, and it contains no hazardous substances.

Detergents

Burlap that has been washed in detergent can retain traces of surfactants, water softeners or oxidants. Repeated water rinses can reduce the amount of residue left by detergent. To avoid detergent residue, purchase an eco-friendly, biodegradable detergent such as Get Clean Fresh Laundry Concentrate by Shaklee.

Related Articles

Should I Remove Burlap Before Planting Trees?
Should I Remove Burlap Before Planting Trees?
How Does a Fly Trap Work?
How Does a Fly Trap Work?
Is Stain Safe for Raised Vegetable Beds?
Is Stain Safe for Raised Vegetable Beds?
What Is Pine Resin?
What Is Pine Resin?
Florists & Foam Toxicity
Florists & Foam Toxicity
How to Care for Reindeer Moss
How to Care for Reindeer Moss
Arborvitae Pests
Arborvitae Pests
Kinds of Rattan
Kinds of Rattan
How to Cover Outdoor Seeds With Burlap
How to Cover Outdoor Seeds With Burlap
How to Remove Wax From My Driveway
How to Remove Wax From My Driveway
List of Organic Pesticides
List of Organic Pesticides
How to Remove Lichen
How to Remove Lichen
Root Rot in Citrus
Root Rot in Citrus
Winter Care of Knock Out Roses
Winter Care of Knock Out Roses
Inert Materials in Fertilizers
Inert Materials in Fertilizers
Garden Guides
×