A recently planted tree may need some additional support in order for it to become established. However try and steer clear of having this support in place for too long a duration as this may actually hinder the growth of the tree.
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If freshly planted tree is greater than 1.5 m (5 ft) tall they will most likely necessitate staking during the initial establishment. The objective of the stake to allow the tree to establish a good root system and a sturdy vertical trunk. For those of us dwelling in wind traps this is especially important as you want to try to prevent your expensive new trees being blown down for lack of support.
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Two methods of staking can be chosen: an angle stake inserted at 45° for container grown or root-balled trees, and an upright stake for bare-root trees. Don't use a very tall stake as this will likely inhibit the trunk from building up any degree of strength. A low, vertical stake, about one third of the trees height, enables the tree to be able to bend slightly in the wind without breaking.
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You should use wooden stakes, treated with wood preservative. Insert the stake in the planting hole before the trees planted. Under no circumstances should you drive a stake into the root ball as this will damage the roots.
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Place the stake at the Windward side of the tree, and insert an angled stake leaning into the prevailing wind so that any movement of the tree is away from the stake, avoiding friction.
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Safely tie the tree stem to the stake with a non-abrasive material that has some freedom. You want to try to avoid any friction between the tree stem and the post that may damage the bark.
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Test the ties every spring and after periods of strong wind. As the tree stem grows loosen the ties to prevent them cutting into the tree bark. Any tight restrain on the tree stem will prevent the nutrients that the tree needs travelling up the stem.
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As soon as you believe the tree to be securely anchored you can safely remove the support. This may take up to a couple of years to achieve. Failure to get rid of the support after a few seasons will result in the tree becoming dependent upon that support and it will fail to produce the root system critical for a productive life.
Author Resource:-
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