To stake or not to stake?
Too many gardeners answer this question in the affirmative. Who doesn’t want to lend support to a wispy, young tree?
And there are situations when a tree can use some mechanical aid – but not as often as you might imagine. Even when staking is beneficial, it is usually so only for a relatively brief period of time.
Staking can be harmful
Staking a tree that does not need it can do more harm than good. The trunk’s natural movement helps bulk it up, strengthening it, and also stimulates root growth.