How to Correctly Stake a Tree

Are you wondering how to stake a tree? It’s quick and easy to do. But before we begin Tree Staking 101, we’ll let you in on a secret: Most trees do not need to be staked.

Why? Letting your new tree grow naturally without help will allow it to anchor a robust and hardy root system into the ground, stabilizing it for years to come. The trunk of the tree will also benefit from building bulk and strength right off the bat. In fact, staking certain types of trees is actually detrimental to their growth.

There are a few instances that stakes are necessary, though. Let’s break it down:

When to Stake

• Bare root trees
• Container grown trees with a small root system
• Young trees if you live in a wind-prone area
• Top heavy young trees with a small root ball

When Not to Stake

• Ball and burlap trees
• Most container-grown trees
• Conifers and evergreens

How to Stake a Tree
If you’ve determined your tree needs to be staked, you’ll be pleased with how easy it is. You’ll need only a few things:

Stake material: thin but sturdy metal or wood stakes (2)
Strapping material: soft material such as old pantyhose or canvas strapping (2)

1. Insert the stakes on opposite sides of the tree, about 18” out from the trunk. Make sure not to drive the stakes into the root system.
2. Gently tie the stakes to the tree, no more than ⅔ the way up the trunk. The ties should allow a little give so the tree can sway freely. Tying the material in a figure 8 around the stake and tree will allow the tree some wiggle room.
3. Check the ties periodically to make sure they are not damaging the trunk.
4. After a year, remove the stakes to allow the tree to begin growing on its own.

Yep, it’s that easy. When necessary, staking a young tree can provide it the jumpstart it needs to live a long, strong, and healthy life.

We love sharing our tree knowledge fellow arborists because at Tree Service York PA, tree care is our passion. From tree planting to stump grinding to emergency tree removal, we offer tree care services that are affordable and professionally executed. That’s why we’re the top tree specialist in central PA.

For more tips, read our blog or give us a call at 717-216-4888.​