Ties left on too long will strangle
the tree as it grows.
Staking young landscape trees is a very common, yet often unnecessary practice. If stakes are installed they should be removed after one year of growth. Removing stakes allows the tree to sway in the wind, which helps the trunk increase in girth and strength. Another reason to remove the stakes is that the straps can strangle the tree if left on too long. The girdling that results can hinder the flow of water and nutrients in the tree and create a weak spot in the trunk.
If you have trees that have been in the ground longer than a year and still have stakes, the stakes and ties should be removed. The Spokane County Conservation District will come and remove the stakes in exchange for being able to keep the stakes and tie material to be re-used in future planting projects where staking is required. Contact Garth Davis at
garth-davis@sccd.org or (509) 535-7274.
