Find out when and how to stake a tree properly to keep it standing tall until it can get established.

Remove the nursery stake and slide your hand up the trunk until the top of the tree stands straight up. That's the spot where the tree needs to be supported.

While their roots are initially confined after planting, many new trees rely on proper staking as they disperse roots for adequate stability.

Staking a tree that does not need it can do more harm than good. The trunk’s natural movement helps bulk it up, strengthening it, and also stimulates root growth.

Trees in open areas that are unprotected from winds, such as in commercial parking lots, parks and large yards, are more likely to require staking than those planted in protected areas. Need a ...

With leaning trees, it is best to dig out the soil around the root ball, straighten the tree and repack the soil. Pulling the tree upright with a stake and wire will not work.

Avoid applying excessive pressure on the tree trunk to straighten trees. Once trees are in an upright position, I would advise staking the trees at three points.

Staking a tree that does not need it can do more harm than good. The trunk’s natural movement helps bulk it up, strengthening it, and also stimulates root growth.

Eventually the tree will grow past the depth of the living wood and will die. It’s not the staking and wiring that kills the tree, it’s the lack of stewardship.