Staking Trees for Healthy Growth

By Jim Boucher, J.R. Partners

Staking and guying are essential for stabilizing newly-planted trees. Wooden stakes driven directly into the ground are the most common option. This metal stake (the R2 Stake by J. R. Partners) attaches directly to iron tree grates. Photo courtesy of jrpartnersco.com

The long-term success of new plantings of trees is dependent on a number of factors, including landscape planning, quality of the new plant material, site preparation, climate factors and planting details.

Improperly staked trees are often damaged immediately or within the first growing season by guy wires that girdle the trunk. A staking system should be snug, but not to the point of making an impression on the stem or trunk.

 

Metal stakes often need a flange or plate below the ground surface to insure wind-resistant stability. Removal is sometimes difficult or even near-impossible when roots entangle themselves around the flange. The pole seen here will likely be removed before that becomes a problem. Photo courtesy of jrpartnersco.com

A root barrier is seen here pre-positioned before planting. The product is a simple plastic sleeve with a ribbed surface that helps direct roots downward, preventing damage when roots swell with years of growth. Photo courtesy of Villa Root Barriers

There have been various types of staking systems used to support trees for decades. Until recently the choices of stakes have had some drawbacks. One of the most common is the wooden stakes (lodge poles) which are usually 2 ?EUR??,,????'??? 3 inches in diameter and need to be post pounded into the ground. Down sides to these stakes can be they split and break while post pounding them into the ground or even after they have been installed, a higher degree of accidents using post-pounders and most wooden stakes are preservative treated, which can contribute to contamination.

There are many factors to be considered in selecting the best staking system; availability, cost, strength, durability, ease of installation, damage to the tree, support to promote a healthier tree, appearance and reusability.

The point at which guy lines or stakes are attached to trees is critical. Loose rubber or strap connections (as seen here) can stay attached for long periods without binding or causing damage to trunk or limbs. Photo courtesy of jrpartnersco.com

Avoiding Mistakes When Staking

The root ball of a newly planted but unstaked tree will tend to roll or pivot in the ground, resulting in tree lean or blow-over. In addition, trunk movement from strong wind, at or below the soil line, will break the root ball, destroying roots and resulting in a wobbly tree. Such a plant will usually die because constant movement will prevent root establishment. These problems can be avoided by proper staking or guying of a newly planted tree.

Staking and guying of a tree must be done properly, and the system must be maintained. It is best to avoid using wire or cable around the trunk, but if support must be provided in this manner, be sure to protect the tree by running the wire through a length of rubber or vinyl hose to serve as padding.

How not to do it. This pine was secured to a guy system with tightly-bound wire, leading to the results seen here. No matter the type of post or stake, flexible attachment materials like rubber are essential. Monitoring and follow-up maintenance are essential too. Photo courtesy of www.vnla.org

Commercial rubber, nylon, or vinyl ties are less likely to damage the tree and should be used whenever possible. The wooden stake should not rub against the trunk. A properly installed tie will separate the tree trunk from the stake, providing a cushion. Other staking systems or newer staking technologies may be appropriate for use in certain circumstances.

Root damage is another area where relatively inexpensive accessories can save money down the road. This kind of damage (ficus trees are notorious sidewalk-wreckers) can be prevented by the use of several different root-barrier products on the market. Photo courtesy of Century Products

Support the tree low on the trunk. The purpose of staking or guying is to prevent movement of the lower trunk and root system. Movement of the top is desirable and will strengthen the tree. Check a staked or guyed tree monthly during the growing season and after storms or strong wind. The system should be snug, but not to the point of making an impression on the stem or trunk. If that happens, loosen the tie or wire around the trunk. Do not stake or guy a tree any longer than necessary.

Kansas State University