[Gautama]

I've a couple of new apple trees in containers (ie rootballs rather than bare root) that I intend to transplant in the next couple of months.
As far a I know I've got two staking options:
* 1 stake at a 45` angle
* 2 verticle stakes outside the planting hole, with a horizontal bar across them, tied to the trunk

What are the pros and cons of these two methods? The latter seems the easier to me.

[kindredspirit]

I'm not an expert but personally I'd do the second choice.

[Greengage]

I would go for option one which would allow the tree to move in the wind helping it butress which will make it more stable when the stake is removed later.

[tippben]

How large are the trees, and how large are the pots? For all trees, I tend to stake the rootball well, but only stake to about 1/3 of the way up the main stem. After one year, I cut the stake in half, then remove it the following year. I use rubber tree ties to stop the stake damaging the bark of the tree. The stake is there to stop the roots moving in wind. The stem of the tree should be able to move and flex, to produce strong durable growth in response. If the trees have come with a bamboo cane attached, remove it. They won't need it in the ground, and if left, will result in a floppy stem.

[Gautama]

The trees are about 2m in height, the pots about 20l.

[tippben]

Absolutely not! At the side of the root system, and at an angle. Given the sizes you've said, a broomstick handle will be fine.

[The Garden Shop]

one stake should do it, use a 1500 mm stake.

Plant the stake before the tree, to prevent damaging tree roots.
Position stake between tree and oncoming winds.

Use tree ties and tie loosely. remember to loosen the tree ties each year. Remove stake after 3 to 4 years

Good Luck!