Abstract: A carrying device is provided for lifting and transporting a balled and burlapped plant or the like without damaging the plant's root system or the top thereof. The carrying device includes at least two carrying straps having a fastening device at one end thereof. The straps are arranged such that they adjoin or intersect at a point beneath the balled plant. A carrying handle extending between the carrying straps is positioned on each side of the intersection point near the top shoulder of the plant. Thus, the plant can be securely lifted by the carrying handles without causing a loosening of the earth ball or burlap surrounding the plant roots.