Staking Trees

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Here are some reasons staking may be required:

1. The root system of some trees may be insufficient to anchor the tree in strong winds. If there is a likelihood of the tree falling, staking should be done only until the tree's root system becomes established to the point that the tree is no longer in danger of falling over. Typically, with young trees, the stakes can be removed in the dormant season following the first full growing season.

2. Some dwarf fruit trees have very limited root systems and may require support throughout their life.

3. Young trees grown in situations where they were protected from wind and then transplanted into exposed locations may initially have root systems too fragile to support the trees without damage to the roots. These trees should be staked until the root system has a chance to get large enough to support the wind load. Typically, on younger trees, the stakes can be removed in the dormant season following the first full growing season.

4. Some trees with a weeping/prostrate habit have their trunk supported for the first few years to produce vertical growth. Without the support, the trees would not attain the desired height. Length of time required to train these trees varies.

5. Various other situations where trees are being trained, including espalier, may require support.

Some of the disadvantages in staking a tree include:

1. Supported tree trunks can become "addicted" to support. Trunks grow more sturdy and are better able to support the tree if the trunks are exposed to sufficient movement from wind.

2. Root systems of trees with supported trunks can become "addicted" to the lack of movement. Root systems grow stronger when trees are regularly allowed to move with the wind.

3. Trunks and branches can be damaged in various ways by the materials used to provide support. This is mainly a concern with improper techniques.

4. Materials used to provide support can pose a safety issue to children playing around the trees.

5. A staked tree is less visually appealing than an unstaked tree.

If support is required, consider these ideas:

1. Trees should be supported at the correct height.

2. Care should be used so that supports are not damaging to the tree. Damage can occur in a variety of ways including wearing away of bark or tissue, cutting into bark or tissue, excessive stress placed on parts of the tree in windy conditions by the supports, impact and abrasions caused if parts of the tree comes into contact with the stakes.

3. The supports should be strong enough to withstand the maximum anticipated wind load.

4. For most applications, support should be designed in a manor that would allow some natural movement from wind.