How to Stake a Tall Thin Tree

Stake tall, thin trees for a year to maintain a straight trunk.

To maintain a straight trunk on a newly planted tall, thin tree, you must stake it to prevent the tree from being blown over by wind. This is particularly true for bare-root planted trees, which do not have the stabilizing benefit of a heavy dirt root ball. When staking your tree, use soft material that has some elasticity to avoid damage to the trunk. Purchase biodegradable burlap at fabric stores.

Things You'll Need

• 5-foot-tall wooden stakes, 1-inch in diameter (2)
• Rubber mallet
• 1/4 yard biodegradable burlap
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Position the wooden stakes on opposite sides of the tall, thin tree trunk, each approximately 1 inch from the trunk.

2. Pound the stakes into the ground to a depth of 2 feet with a rubber mallet.

3. Cut the burlap into two 3-inch-wide strips that are 12 inches long.

4. Tie a tight knot around one stake 2 feet from the ground, at one end of the burlap strip. Tie a loose knot around the tree trunk with the opposite end of the strip. Tie the second burlap strip to the stake and tree trunk.

5. Remove the stakes and burlap strips after one year.

References

• "The Tree Doctor"; Daniel Prendergast; 2003