Position stakes on opposite sides of the tree at least 1½ feet from the trunk. Drive the stakes into the outer portion of the mulch rimming the tree, being careful not to penetrate the root ball.

Stake trees only if needed, and do it right. Lee Reich The Associated Press. To stake or not to stake? ... A young tree needs its root ball held motionless in the soil until new roots grow.

Tree stakes are particularly beneficial for bare-root or top-heavy trees, dwarf citrus trees with smaller root systems, and trees growing on slopes and in windy areas.

I recently bought two 12-foot shade trees in large containers. Do I need to stake them? How long? My neighbor still has stakes on some trees planted two or three years ago.

Simply put, stake trees low (1-2-feet above the ground) to keep the ball in place and let the top sway in the breeze. That swaying encourages trunk and root growth.

Simply put, stake trees low (1-2-feet above the ground) to keep the ball in place and let the top sway in the breeze. That swaying encourages trunk and root growth.

Do stabilize your tree. Make sure to use quality, well drained potting soil, and tamp it down around the newly potted tree to ...

Then, Daniel recommends shaving off the root ball on all sides and the bottom by about an inch. And remember to shake off some of the dirt and stretch out any roots that are circling around the ball.

Start by feeling the soil around the tree. If it’s hard and dry, add some water to make moving the tree easier. Now, gather your supplies: 2—4 wooden or metal stakes, at least 2-feet long ...

Critical Note: As long as you plan to grow trees, you must remember that 90% of any tree’s roots are going to be in the top foot of the soil. Sure, it’s going to have a tap root to anchor it.