Staking a newly planted tree is a temporary measure designed to provide anchorage against wind until the root system establishes firmly in the surrounding soil. This support system prevents excessive movement of the root ball, which can damage new, delicate roots trying to grow into the surrounding soil. The primary goal is to stabilize the base while still allowing the trunk to move, which encourages the development of a strong, self-supporting structure. Staking is a protective action, not a necessary step for every tree, and it must be done correctly to avoid causing long-term harm.
Determining When Staking is Necessary
Not every newly planted tree needs to be staked, and doing so unnecessarily can actually hinder the tree’s natural development. Trees strengthen their trunks and root systems in response to wind and movement, a process that staking can impede if applied too rigidly. This natural sway signals the tree to increase its girth, particularly at the base, leading to the desirable trunk taper that resists breaking.
Staking becomes beneficial only when specific conditions prevent the tree from establishing on its own. This includes planting in sites with constant, high winds that could uproot the tree or cause the root ball to rock excessively. Trees with a disproportionately large canopy relative to their root ball, such as some container-grown specimens, often require temporary support. Trees planted in loose or sandy soils, which offer poor natural anchorage, or bare-root trees lacking the weight of a soil ball may also need staking. Staking can also serve as a visible barrier in high foot or vehicle traffic areas to prevent accidental damage.
Selecting the Right Staking Materials and Placement
Choosing the proper materials prevents mechanical damage to the tree’s bark. Stakes should be sturdy (e.g., 2×2 lumber or metal fence posts), sized relative to the tree, and typically six to eight feet long for young trees. Attachment material must be soft, flexible, and wide, such as specialized webbing or canvas straps, to minimize friction and prevent girdling. Wire or thin rope must be avoided entirely, even when padded, as this compresses the bark and causes injury.
Proper placement of stakes and ties is important for promoting strength. Stakes should be driven into the undisturbed soil outside the original root ball, usually 12 to 18 inches away from the trunk, to avoid damaging new root growth. For wind support, a two-stake system is common, with the stakes placed perpendicular to the direction of the prevailing wind. The tie should be positioned low on the trunk, ideally no higher than one-third to one-half the distance to the lowest branch, ensuring the top two-thirds of the tree can still move freely.
Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Staking Technique
Drive the stakes firmly into the ground, ensuring they are deep enough to be stable (generally 18 inches or more) and positioned outside the planting hole. If using a two-stake system, place the stakes so a line drawn between them runs perpendicular to the strongest wind direction. The stakes should not be taller than the height of the tie attachment point to avoid rubbing on the tree’s upper branches.
Next, attach the flexible tie material to the trunk and the stakes using a figure-eight pattern. This technique creates a buffer between the trunk and the rigid stake, preventing the bark from being rubbed raw. The tie should be secure enough to hold the tree upright but loose enough to allow several inches of movement in every direction. This slack stimulates the development of thicker, stronger reaction wood, helping the trunk build its own self-support mechanism. The tie should be fastened tightly to the stake, but only loosely around the tree, allowing for slight trunk oscillation in the wind.
Duration and Removal: Avoiding Long-Term Damage
Staking must be temporary, remaining in place only for the minimum time required for roots to establish. Leaving support systems in place too long causes a lack of trunk taper, making the tree weak and prone to snapping when the stakes are removed. The ties can also girdle the trunk as it expands, cutting off the flow of water and nutrients and potentially killing the tree years later.
A general guideline is to remove the stakes after one full growing season, typically within six to 12 months after planting. Before removal, perform a simple stability test by gently pushing the trunk away from its center point. If the tree returns to an upright position and the root ball does not shift in the soil, the staking materials can be completely removed. All materials, including the stakes and ties, must be removed entirely to ensure the tree develops strength and girth without restriction.