Should I remove or leave the plastic around the trunk of my new tree?

Question

This tree arrived today to me via mail: (Click on the pictures for larger view.)

It is wrapped in several layers of plastic.

I plan to plant it in couple of days.

I will remove the plastic packaging around the root ball of course, but should I perhaps leave the packaging plastic around tree's trunk, just until spring? Is plastic an appropriate material that will help the tree overwinter?

The species is Pinus pinea, also known as the stone pine, umbrella pine and parasol pine. It's actually a Mediterranean plant, and I am concerned about the possible negative impact of a harsh first winter to this beautiful plant.

I live in European zone 8, where the lower range is approximately −12.2 °C (10 °F).

The weather forecast for the whole winter this year is mild, but you never know.

Answer 1

It won't do any harm to keep the plastic around it.

However, plastic does not really insulate well. I would recommend wrapping it into several layers of cloth instead.

If you do think the tree won't survive the cold, go to your local farm shop and buy a bunch of tree bark to spread around its base, this will keep the cold from penetrating to the roots too much.