Improper Staking
Trees that are staked improperly will certainly grow taller, but will suffer from a decrease in trunk caliper or diameter. This diameter loss will result in a weakness the tree cannot overcome during stressfull weather conditons.Related to trunk diameter is taper (a reduction in trunk diameter from the butt to the top). A tree grown under natural conditions develops a genetically coded taper or trunk form that serves for a lifetime. Staking a tree causes less trunk taper and possibly even a reverse trunk taper.
Under this restricted condition, a tree will grow its xylem unevenly and develop a smaller root system. This results in problems with water and nutrient uptake. If the tree is rubbing on or girdled by the stake ties, the same thing can happen.
The kicker is when the stakes are removed, the tree will be more likely to snap in a high wind after stakes are removed. Often trees are unable to remain upright after stakes are removed.
Staking Cardinal Sins
The three cardinal sins of tree staking are:
