Floppy-topped Sapling
Late summer of 2020 I planted a Newport plum and a Prairifire crabapple. I staked them both because they were very thin saplings. In the spring of 2021 the crabapple was awash in blossom but this spring we had a really bad late spring freeze (Eastern Ontario), so wasn't very showy but over the past few months it hasn't really bounced back.
The plum has leafed out and fluffed up and is just generally looking spectacularly happy while the crabapple looks like the sick, sniffley cousin at a birthday party. (The kid who never wants to play games.)
I had removed the stake this spring because I read that trees shouldn't become dependent on them, but, while the trunk is straight, the entire top of the tree is flopping rather alarmingly. I'm wondering if I should re-stake it to support the top but I can't find any information online.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Comments (9)
cecily 7A
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BillMN-z-2-3-4
last year'I had removed the stake this spring because I read that trees shouldn't become dependent on them,'
I think more accurately stated, if a tree is staked too tight or rigidly, it will become dependent on the stake and will never stand by itself or at least not until some years pass. Or it may just snap off in a high wind when it can't flex.
I always place stakes a foot or so away from the tree and use a flexible/stretchy material between the tree and the stake (You will have to go with taller stakes on the tree above, I was just trying to keep this one from tipping in a strong wind).I use nylon stocking material (~$1 or so for a box of 10 knee high nylon socks) it works great and lets the tree sway somewhat in the wind but holds it upright when the wind is calm.
Generally you only need it for one season. I remove it once the leaves fall but occasionally have to put it back on in the spring if lush, new growth causes the tree to become top heavy. Then by mid summer it's usually a done deal.
Lian Ellis thanked BillMN-z-2-3-4floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK
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