Are you killing your new tree?
Newly-planted trees are often, but not always, supported by staking. Tree staking is normally done with straps or hoses around the trunk at the lowest branch crotches, then secured with wire to stakes that are pounded in the ground. This reinforcement helps the new trees stand up to our relentless Nebraska winds. These stakes are only needed until the tree establishes roots into the new soil bed. Establishment period is a maximum of 12 months. After 12 months it is important to remember to remove all straps, wire and stakes!
Too often this is forgotten and the tree continues to grow and outgrow the straps, and wire. At that point, the straps that we originally installed to help the tree are now literally strangling it. This is called girdling. Fast growing trees such as Maple, Birch, Aspen, and Elm can become girdled in as little as 1 year!
Please don’t kill your tree!
Inspect Tree Straps
They should be supportive, but should also have some room for movement. All straps should be removed within 12 months of installation.
Don’t Kill Your Tree
Remove all straps/wire/hoses and stakes before your tree’s 1st birthday!