While plenty of trees can stand up to adverse weather and winds without trouble, some need extra support to stay upright. Staking trees is a good way to prevent them from falling over while ensuring optimal growth, but many Safety Harbor residents don’t know how to stake trees properly.
That’s why our team at Ken’s Tree Service is here to explain the best way to stake a tree.
We’re Safety Harbor, Florida’s premier professional tree care company, so give us a call if you need reliable tree service in Safety Harbor.
How To Stake a Tree: Four Steps
Many young and newly planted trees don’t have very strong root systems or developed trunks and require staking until they mature. Staking prevents trees from growing sideways or falling over in severe weather. Here are four steps to follow if you want to learn the best way to stake a tree.
Step #1: Purchase the Materials
If you want to successfully stake a tree, you need the right supplies. Some homeowners create DIY stakes, but you should purchase equipment to ensure the best results. Go to your local home improvement store and buy the following:
- Two to four stakes
- Tree support straps or guy wires
- A rubber mallet (optional)
Step #2: Place the Stakes
Once you have the supplies, place the stakes on opposite sides of your tree and use the rubber mallet to drive them 15 to 18 inches into the ground. You want them deep enough to stay in place during strong winds but high enough to support the straps and tree.
Step #3: Apply the Straps
Next, place the straps over your tree to prevent it from falling during wind storms. You want them six inches above the area where the tree bends and falls over or 18 inches above the ground. Firmly tie the straps to the tree and stakes while leaving enough room for the tree to sway in the wind.
Swaying helps trees develop strong root systems. Tying the straps too tight will damage tree trunks and hinder root development, so make sure you leave some room.
Step #4: Untie the Tree and Remove the Stakes
Once a year passes, remove the straps from your tree and carefully dig up the stakes so that you don’t damage the roots. At this point, your tree should be able to support itself and withstand winds.
While you can stake a larger tree for more than a season, you shouldn’t stake a newly planted tree for longer than a year because it needs to grow accustomed to its environment on its own. Part of this acclimatization process involves proper care, such as watering a newly planted tree, to ensure it establishes a strong root system.
Reach Out to Ken’s Tree Service for Top-Quality Tree Care in Safety Harbor, Florida
If you want to learn the best way to stake a tree, contact our team at Ken’s Tree Service. We can do it for you while making sure your tree has what it needs to grow tall and strong.
Whether you need to stake a bare root tree or prune an overgrown tree, you can rely on us.
Call (727) 934-5804 for your appointment in Safety Harbor, Florida, today!