How do you keep a tree upright?

To keep a tree upright, especially a newly planted or leaning one, the most common and effective method involves strategic staking to provide temporary support until its root system is firmly established.

Why Do Trees Need Support?

Trees, particularly young ones, often require assistance to stand upright and develop a strong structure. This support is crucial for several reasons:

• Newly Planted Trees: Their root systems are not yet extensive enough to anchor them securely against environmental forces.
• Weak Root Systems: Some tree species naturally develop slower or weaker root systems initially.
• Strong Winds and Storms: These can easily dislodge or damage young trees, causing them to lean or fall.
• Poor Soil Conditions: Loose or sandy soils may not provide adequate natural anchorage.
• Physical Damage: A tree that has been partially uprooted or damaged might need help recovering its vertical alignment.

The Staking Method: Step-by-Step

Staking provides the necessary stability, allowing the tree to focus its energy on root growth rather than combating gravity or wind. The process involves specific steps to ensure effectiveness and avoid harming the tree.

1. Gather Your Materials:

   • Stakes: You'll typically need 2 to 3 sturdy wooden or metal stakes, long enough to be driven deep into the ground while still providing support at a suitable height on the tree.
   • Mallet or Sledgehammer: For driving the stakes.
   • Tree Ties: Flexible, wide straps made of fabric, rubber, or specialized tree tie material. Avoid using wire, thin rope, or anything that could cut into the bark.
   • Shovel (Optional): For clearing debris or if initial planting needs adjustment.

2. Positioning the Stakes:

   • Placement: Using a mallet or sledgehammer, drive 2-3 stakes into the ground around the tree.
   • Angle: It's crucial to place them at a 45-degree angle, leaning away from the tree. This angle provides better leverage and stability.
   • Distance from Tree: Take care not to place them too close to the tree to avoid hitting the rootball. A general guideline is to place them just outside the projected rootball area, typically 1 to 2 feet away from the trunk. The number of stakes depends on the tree's size and the level of support required.

3. Adjusting the Tree's Position:

   • Uprighting: If the tree is already leaning, push the tree upright using even pressure along the trunk. This could take more than one person if the tree is already a decent size. Ensure the tree is perpendicular to the ground and visually straight before proceeding to secure it.

4. Securing the Tree with Ties:

   • Height: Attach the ties at a point on the trunk that provides support without restricting the tree's natural sway. This is usually about one-third to one-half of the way up the tree from the ground.
   • Flexibility: Use flexible ties to create a loose loop around the trunk and then attach them to the stakes.
   • Figure-Eight Method: A common technique is to form a figure-eight with the tie, placing the "X" of the eight between the tree and the stake to prevent chafing.
   • Looseness: Ensure the ties are loose enough to allow some natural movement and trunk growth, but firm enough to prevent the tree from leaning or falling. You should be able to slide your hand easily between the tie and the trunk.

5. Post-Staking Care:

   • Watering: Ensure the tree receives adequate water to encourage root growth.
   • Monitoring: Regularly check the ties to ensure they are not too tight, especially as the tree grows. Adjust them if necessary.

Types of Staking Systems

The choice of staking system depends on the tree's size, the environment, and the degree of support needed:

• Single Stake: Suitable for very small trees in sheltered locations.
• Double Stake: Common for young trees, providing support from two sides.
• Triple Stake: Ideal for larger young trees, those in windy areas, or trees requiring significant stability from multiple directions.

Choosing the Right Materials

Selecting appropriate materials is vital for the tree's health:

• Stakes: Pressure-treated wood, bamboo, or metal rebar are common choices. Ensure they are strong enough to withstand wind and the tree's weight.
• Ties: Always use wide, flexible materials designed for tree support. Old garden hoses cut into strips, specialized tree straps, or canvas webbing are excellent. Never use wire, rope, or thin plastic ties, as these can girdle (cut into) the bark and restrict growth.

When to Remove Tree Stakes

One of the most critical aspects of staking is knowing when to remove the supports. Staking is a temporary measure, and leaving stakes on for too long can actually harm the tree:

• Root Establishment: Most trees will establish a strong enough root system within 6 to 12 months after planting.
• Trunk Strengthening: Allowing the tree to sway naturally in the wind helps it develop a stronger, more resilient trunk. Prolonged staking can result in a weaker trunk that relies too heavily on external support.
• Girdling: Ties left on for too long can girdle the trunk as the tree grows, restricting nutrient and water flow, which can eventually kill the tree.

Inspect the tree: if it stands upright firmly on its own without the stakes, it's time to remove them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

By following these guidelines, you can effectively help your tree establish itself upright and grow into a healthy, strong specimen.