What are those green garbage bag looking things around the base of young trees?

One of the main roads near my home was widened. They added pretty landscaping and flowers in periodic areas in between the 2 lanes of traffic. The trees they planted are young and around their trunks are green garbage bag looking things. Does anyone know what this could be and what the purpose of them are?

nebit2142009-06-04T21:11:28Z

Favorite Answer

They are called Tree Gators. You fill them up with water and they slowly release the water into the ground, there by watering the young tree. Its important to keep the trees hydrated so that they can become established and stay healthy. In your yard, you could set a soaker hose or such on it, but in public areas where landscaping crews are not on hand to water them everyday, the tree gators work quite nicely. You can buy them for your yard too if you ever transplant a tree and don't want to spend alot of time watering- check your local garden center for them. -Neb

flattrack750812009-06-04T07:58:53Z

They hold water and act as a slow drip irrigation system. It takes 2-3 years for roots to become established. Once the roots dry, tree dies.

Now go drink a beer and relax

ticktock2009-06-04T07:34:45Z

I think it has something to do with protection from extreme weather conditions.