Trees generally should not be staked for more than one growing season. When staking materials are left in place too long, they can girdle a growing tree and cause unsightly damage to its trunk.
At right, Damon Abdi, assistant professor of landscape horticulture at the LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station, displays a variety of materials that can be used to connect trees to their stakes. From left are thin rope to be threaded through a piece of hosepipe barrier, plastic chain locks and woven straps. (Photos by Olivia McClure/LSU AgCenter)
(Left) Staking can provide stability for newly planted trees. At right, Damon Abdi, assistant professor of landscape horticulture at the LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station, displays a variety of materials that can be used to connect trees to their stakes.
Metal fenceposts are a popular choice for tree stakes.
By Olivia McClure
LSU AgCenter
Get It Growing
The cooler months are ideal for planting many tree species in Louisiana. Staking newly planted trees can offer much-needed support as they start to put down roots — especially in the case of large trees.
“When you get that instant effect from a mature tree being put into the landscape, you’ve got a lot of top-heavy growth, but you don’t hav...
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