Newly planted trees need support in the early stages after planting to prevent root rock which can cause problems down the line. We offer a rounded or square stake dependent upon the size of tree you are planting.
Tree Whips under 1.75m - Square stake and supersoft tie
Standard Trees over 1.75m - Machine rounded stake and buckle tie
Note, stakes and ties should be removed after 18-24 months once the tree is strong enough to support itself.
How to stake a tree:
- plant the tree as normal but don't completely back fill the pit
- knock the stake into the bottom of the pit, on the windward side of the tree, as close as possible to the rootball
- the stake should be no higher than one-third the height of the tree
- backfill the hole
- loosely attach the stake to the tree using a tree tie - this should form a figure of eight with a spacer between the tree and the stake to prevent any rubbing
- most ties will need nailing to the stake to prevent them from slipping, buckle ends should be against the stake rather than the tree and should be nailed in place
- check the tree and stake regularly and remove the tie at the beginning of the second growing season, by which time the tree should be securely anchored by its own roots.
For container-grown or rootballed trees, an angled stake can be used instead to prevent damaging the rootball. Put the stake at an angle of 45 degrees, positoned away from the prevailing wind so it is not loosened by the wind.
