To stake or not to stake?

bluebelldell · Rank attained: Hazel Tree Joined: 29 Aug 2010 Posts: 43

hi folks, have just got a Amelanchier lamarkii- Snowy Mespilus still in it's pot.
I'm wondering should I stake it when planting, at the moment it looks like an overgrown shrub no more than perhaps 3feet tall - (90cm).
And if I should stake it - would a large cane be more suitable rather than a tree stake?
The position I have chosen for it is close enough to the house and is fairly well sheltered.
thanks for any suggestions.

tippben · Posted: Wed Jun 08, 2011 1:23 pm Post subject:

There's no need to stake it. Plant it level with the soil in the pot, don't cover that. Stakes are only necessary to stop the wind rocking the root ball and breaking the newly forming roots. The plant is too small for the leaf canopy to create that kind of "sail". IF you notice the root ball moving, use something like a cut off broom handle, and stake to about 1/3 of the stem height. Otherwise, just leave it to develop naturally- you'll get a stronger root system, therefore a stronger plant.

bluebelldell · Rank attained: Hazel Tree Joined: 29 Aug 2010 Posts: 43

Fantastic, thanks for that - have done exactly what you advised.
happy days...