Question: Will you explain staking my new trees?
Not all trees require staking, in fact staking a tree that doesn’t need to be or leaving the stakes in place longer than one growing season can do more harm than good. A new tree needs support when it has an unusually small root system, the trunk bends excessively in the wind or it is planted in a very windy site.
Smaller trees can be staked with wooden two by twos and they need to be about five feet long. If staking trees taller than 12 feet, it would be best to use metal t-posts. As a rule of thumb, use as few stakes as possible. Depending on the size of the tree, one, two or three may be used. Place them far enough from the tree to avoid the roots but within the mulched area. Be sure none of the branches or leaves rub against the stake, as this can cause damage to the canopy.
The material used to wrap around the trunk should be wide (no less than threes inches) and flexible. Strips of canvas, strips of old carpet, bicycle inner tubes or wide nylon straps are some examples. Place the strapping just above the first set of branches and attach them loosely. The tree needs to be able to move in the wind. This strengthens and increases the diameter of the trunk.
When straightening a wind bent tree, use three stakes placed evenly around the tree with one upwind of the prevailing winds. Place the straps approximately two thirds of the way up the tree.
Remove the stakes after one growing season. Leaving the stakes on too long will cause the tree to be taller but with a weaker trunk.
You can send me questions about gardening, lawn, landscape, trees, houseplants or upcoming classes to either bgoekensales@hotmail.com, my Facebook page Brenda Goeken Sales or call me at 402-382-8639 and I will answer them and maybe in the newspaper.
