Unstake That Tree! You’re Holding It Back (Literally)

Photo credit: The Tree Center

Tree stakes are a great tool - when they’re used correctly. They help young trees stay upright and stable while they establish strong roots in the soil.

But here’s the thing: if those stakes have been on for more than a year, they’re probably doing more harm than good. Leaving them too long can weaken the trunk, restrict growth, and even damage the tree permanently.

Here’s when to use stakes, how long to keep them, and why removing them at the right time is one of the best things you can do for your trees.

The Purpose of Tree Stakes

Tree stakes provide temporary support for newly planted trees while their roots anchor into the soil. They’re especially helpful when:

• The tree is tall or top-heavy with a small root ball

• The planting site is windy or exposed

• The tree is bare-root or container-grown and needs help staying upright

However, not every tree needs staking - in fact, most healthy, properly planted trees do best without any support at all.

How Long Should Tree Stakes Stay In?

Tree stakes should typically be removed after one growing season — about 12 months after planting.

By then, the tree’s roots have spread and anchored it firmly in the ground. Keeping stakes longer than that can actually prevent the trunk from developing strength, as it no longer sways naturally in the wind.

What Happens If You Leave Stakes Too Long

Leaving tree stakes in for years can cause lasting damage:

• Weak trunk development - the tree never builds the strength to stand on its own.

• Girdling - ties can cut into the bark, restricting water and nutrient flow.

• Embedded stakes - metal or wooden posts can grow into the trunk over time.

• Unnatural growth - the tree may lean, twist, or become dependent on support.

Think of stakes like training wheels: helpful at first, but harmful if you never take them off.

Example of a tree tie left on too long. The wire has begun to cut into the bark, restricting growth and causing lasting damage to the trunk. Photo credit: Julie Boudreau

How to Remove Tree Stakes

1. Check stability: Gently rock the trunk. If the soil moves instead of the tree, it’s well-rooted and ready.

2. Cut the ties: Remove all wire, twine, or straps from around the trunk and branches.

3. Pull the stakes out: Loosen the soil around them if needed and lift them cleanly.

4. Inspect the bark: Check for any marks or damage left behind by the ties.

If your tree has been staked for a few years, don’t worry - just remove the supports now and give it a season to strengthen naturally.

The Benefits of Removing Tree Stakes

Once the stakes are gone, your tree can:

• Develop a stronger trunk and root system.

• Sway naturally in the wind, building resilience.

• Avoid damage or strangling from old ties/stakes.

• Mature into a healthy, well-formed tree.

Healthy mature Eastern Redbud in full bloom. Photo credit: Phipps Conservatory

So take a quick walk around your yard - if you spot any old stakes still attached, it’s time to pull them up. Your trees will be stronger, healthier, and happier for it.