When it comes to staking trees there are a few quick & simple tips to follow that will make choosing the right tree stake easy for you. Here at the garden shop we have outlined a quick & easy guide to ensure your trees get the best possible support from wind to keep them upright & growing strong.

Supporting trees is necessary for the following reasons

1. Prevent root rock – which can lead to tree death
2. Prevent lopsided trees
3. Prevent damage to tree's canopy
4. To ensure a healthy & strong tree

How to stake a tree

Once a tree is securely anchored in the ground, you can minimise root movement which will ensure tree’s roots can develop & tree can become established. Once a tree has settled in & has developed an adequate root network, the stake can be removed.

Making the right choice of tree stake will ensure that your tree gets the full protection it needs and will avoid any unnecessary damage that can be caused by poor stake choice.

A small amount of rocking & bending is important for the development of the tree’s trunk. The upper canopy of a tree should be allowed to sway but the root system should be fully anchored & supported.

Positioning your stake

Position the stake & then the tree. This is to avoid damage to your tree’s roots. By placing the stake first you will not pierce the tree’s roots when burying the stake.

The tree stake can be positioned at an angle close to ground level or can be positioned upright next to the tree. Either option is fine as you only need to support the tree's roots.

The stake should be about 3 to 4 inches (7 – 10cm) from the tree trunk. This will give a neat look, ensure the tree is secure to the stake & also allow for some movement of the tree. If the tree has no movement then it will be more prone to damage in a wind storm.

The stake should be positioned on the side of the tree where the prevailing wind is coming from. Simply stand, with your back to the wind & position the stake between you & the tree.

Secure stake in the ground

It is always best to have a person hold the tree and stake. You can use either a sledge hammer or post rammer to bury the stake. Take your time are stop to ensure the stake is plum between each hit with the sledge hammer. Once the stake is secure you can move on the planting the tree.

Fixing your tree ties

There are a number of tree tie options, see below & also see our products associated with this article

• 35cm Tree ties are suitable for 50mm (2") tree stakes
• 45cm Tree ties are suitable for 50-75mm (2 - 3") tree stakes
• 60cm Tree ties are suitable for 75mm (3") tree stakes
• Alternatively you can use a tree strapping belt or rubber belts as tree ties

Position the tree tie approx. 1m above ground level. Loop the tree tie around the stake & then around the tree in a figure of '8'. Remember to screw or nail tree tie to stake.

Over the following years you should continue to check the tree ties & ensure they are not too tight. Loosen ties as required. After 3 to 4 years, once tree is successfully anchored, remove the tree stake.