Name: Sandy B. Ford River Twp, Michigan UP (Zone 4b) (Zone 4b-maybe 5a)
Ah, another Michigander!
Elaine, I think constructing a support of some sort for the burlap would be very beneficial, the "air pocket" would be similar to using a "low tunnel" to protect plants in the garden. And yes, the deer do love to eat the cedars/arborvitae!
“Think occasionally of the suffering of which you spare yourself the sight." ~ Albert Schweitzer C/F temp conversion