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Washington Navel toppling over (weak trunk)

12 years ago

I planted a washington navel tree last year and staked it. This year I removed the stake and the tree immediately started to topple over, but I caught it before it snapped. It almost seemed like the trunk was made of rubber. So I tied it to the stake again. Question is, what in the world is happening? I planted 3 other trees at the same time and they have no problems. How do I strengthen the trunk so it's not so weak?

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Comments (4)

johnmerr
12 years ago
Sphygmomorphogenesis... big word, means literally as the twig bends, it strengthens. I am maybe the world's biggest opponent of staking trees. When you stake a tree, you almost guarantee it is going to fall; when the stake is not strong enough, when the top overwhelms the trunk, when the tie breaks. Staking allows the top to grow more than the trunk can support.

Best advice, keep the stake; and every 3 months lower the tie 3-4 inches. In time the trunk will become strong enough that you can remove the stake entirely.

Next thing, prune the canopy back a little; and cut out of the center maybe 1/4 of the limbs.

Your tree can be saved, but it will take a couple of years for it to live on its own.

Next time, forget the stake; let the tree grow as it will and the trunk will strengthen with the growth.
blazeaglory
12 years ago
I agree. Also if you must stake, dont stake so close to the tree. Stake about 2"-3" away from the trunk and tie loosely. That way at least the trunk can move a little bit and gather some strength with the wind. I also agree on lowering the ties every so often.

The way a trunk and branches strengthen is almost the same as how muscles are made. Weight lifters lift weights, rip muscle, new muscles and tissue grows back. Almost the same with trees. As the wind blows and bends the tree/branches it developed micro fractures/rips and eventually hardens back stronger. Thats not an EXACT description but it is somewhat similar.

Staking trees I would think would be a bit counter intuitive. I would only stake when absolutely necessary in windy areas with scraggly trees.
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houstontexas123
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are there any fruits on the tree? that is extra weight. taking the fruits off will help.

light pruning will help too.
aznboi385
Original Author
12 years ago
Got it. I already gave it some space, but I'll try the 2-3" this weekend. Thanks for the tips!

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