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Does my tree need to be staked?
Tree stakes play a vital role in ensuring your tree is able to become established. It is very important that the tree does not rock in the wind otherwise the fine, fibrous root system that is trying to develop will not be able to grow into the surrounding soil. A newly planted tree could take up to two seasons to establish itself. If the tree is planted in a particularly windy or exposed area, then we would recommend that you use a stake and tie system to stabilise the tree.
Which stake should I use?
With most trees a single, angled stake or a double stake and crossbar system can be used. Trees that have a flexible main trunk would benefit from a taller stake being used in the first year of establishment and then this can be reduced in height in the trees second year. Large trees are sometimes secured using specialist underground guying systems. These systems are generally used by specialist landscapers or tree planting specialists for mature specimen trees.
How do I stake my tree?
A single stake
This is normally inserted into the hole before the tree is planted. If you push a large stake into the soil once the tree has already been planted you may damage the rootball. The single stake should not reach more than one third up the tree. There should be a gap of 2.5-3cm between the stake and the trunk of the tree, this can be created with a tree tie and a rubber bung. This method enables the trunk to move freely but anchors the rootball to allow the roots to establish. Single stakes should be placed on the side that the wind blows in from so the tree does not blow into the stake and cause rubbing against the trunk.
A double stake and crossbar
This method is often used in a windy area to provide maximum support. A small stake is placed either side of the rootball with a crossbar section connecting them. The tree is then secured using a rubber tree tie and attaching it to the crossbar.
An angled stake
This is another method often used when planting trees on a windy site. Before the hole is backfilled when the tree is being planted, gently push the stake securely into the ground at a 45 degree angle leaning into the wind. Once the hole has been filled with soil and the stake is sturdy, attach the tree to the stake using a rubber, flexible tree tie.
With all staking methods the stake must be firmly in the ground. If the stake is able to move then it will not be holding the rootball securely in place.
What tree ties should I use?
Adjustable, rubber tree ties with a spacer (rubber bung) are the best tree ties to use as they allow you to adjust it as the girth of the tree expands and it does not mark the bark. Ties need to be checked during spring as the tree is growing and loosened as necessary.
When should I remove the stakes and ties?
Stakes can normally be removed after two full growing seasons if they have had adequate conditions, but make sure the tree is well-rooted before pulling them out. If you leave the stakes in the ground indefinitely, they could eventually choke the tree or leave a compression mark on the bark. The tree ties could also choke the tree if they are not loosened.