Staking is the practice of providing temporary external support to a tree’s trunk to help it remain upright during the establishment phase. The Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), a popular flowering ornamental tree, is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in warm climates. When trained into a single-trunk form, young Crepe Myrtles sometimes require stabilization. This guide offers instructions for correctly supporting newly planted or structurally compromised specimens, ensuring they develop a strong, self-supporting trunk.
Determining If Staking Is Necessary
Arborists agree that staking a newly planted tree is often detrimental because it prevents the trunk from developing the natural strength and taper needed to withstand wind. Trees require movement to build reaction wood, which is stronger than standard wood. If a tree is immobilized, the trunk remains thin and weak, unable to support itself when the stakes are removed.
Staking is warranted only in specific circumstances to prevent the root ball from shifting or the trunk from bending permanently. This includes newly planted bare-root stock or trees with a disproportionately large canopy relative to the trunk diameter. Trees in locations with constant, strong prevailing winds may also need initial support to prevent the root ball from rocking, which breaks delicate new root growth.
A simple field test determines the necessity for support after planting. Gently hold the trunk’s base and push the top of the tree. If the trunk bends significantly or the root ball pivots, a temporary support system is recommended to stabilize the roots. If the trunk sways freely while the root ball remains firm, the tree should be left unstaked to encourage self-strengthening.
Gathering the Correct Staking Materials
Selecting the appropriate materials is important for a successful and non-damaging support system. The stakes must be sturdy, typically constructed from wood posts or metal T-posts, ensuring they are rigid enough to remain fixed. Bamboo or thin wooden dowels are not sufficient to support the trunk movement of a young Crepe Myrtle.
The tie material used to secure the trunk must be soft, wide, and non-abrasive to prevent bark damage. Preferred options include specialized tree strapping, wide canvas webbing, or thick rubber hose sections. Thin materials like wire, rope, or nylon cord must be avoided entirely, as they can easily cut into the bark and girdle the tree as it grows in diameter. You will also need a sledgehammer or mallet to securely drive the stakes.
Installing the Support System
Proper installation requires placing the stakes in a configuration that stabilizes the root ball while allowing the trunk to move. Position two or three stakes outside the root ball perimeter, approximately 12 to 14 inches away from the trunk. Drive the stakes deep to ensure they are firmly anchored and cannot shift with wind movement.
The ties should be placed high enough on the trunk to provide necessary support, generally one-third of the tree’s height. Placing the ties too high can cause the tree to snap at the tie-point. Placing them too low may not offer enough stability to the root ball. The goal is to provide dynamic support, allowing a few inches of sway in the upper portion of the tree.
The correct technique for attaching the tie material is using a figure-eight pattern between the stake and the trunk. This method creates a cushioned space between the trunk and the rigid stake, preventing bark damage during windy conditions. The tie must be loose enough to allow the trunk to slightly move and flex. This movement is the necessary stimulus for the tree to produce the strong wood it needs for self-support.
Monitoring and Safe Removal
The temporary support system requires regular monitoring to ensure it does not harm the developing Crepe Myrtle. Check the ties monthly, especially during periods of rapid growth, to confirm they are not becoming too tight. A tie that restricts the trunk’s circumference can lead to girdling, which starves the top of the tree of nutrients and water.
The staking system should remain in place only until the tree’s root system is adequately established, which typically occurs within six to twelve months after planting. Leaving the stakes attached for too long inhibits the natural thickening and strengthening of the trunk, creating a permanent dependency on external support. The trunk’s diameter should visibly increase during this time, creating a noticeable taper from the base to the canopy.
To determine if the tree is ready for stake removal, carefully unfasten the ties and observe the trunk’s stability. If the tree can stand upright without support, the stakes and ties should be completely removed. Remove the ties first, then gently pull the stakes out of the ground, taking care not to disturb the established root system.