Knowledgebase

Oak Saplings Severe Lean/ Root Collar concern #871845

Asked June 06, 2024, 8:41 AM EDT

Hello, I planted a white oak sapling in spring 2022. Tree seems to be growing very well but it's leaning alot. The sapling used to have a sort of v shaped tip but one of the branches died. Since then it leans heavily toward the other side. Should I do anything about this? Should I try to stake it. It does got some shade on the side it does not lean towards for a couple hours in the day. I think it gets at least 6 hours sun on both sides. Probably more like 6 full sun on the non-leaning side and 10 full sun towards the way it is leaning. I would prefer a straight trunk but I am more concerned with the tree's health. Aside from the lean, everything else looks great to me. Almost doubled in size already this year. I don't want to do anything that'll hurt the tree long term. Also can you tell me if I planted the tree correctly. I am concerned it may be too deep. I think the root cellar is exposed by I am not sure. Thanks in advance.

Baltimore County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

It can be difficult to see a root flare on young trees but it looks like it is planted correctly. 

You can use a small stake to help young trees grow a strong central leader. As they grow you can lightly prune any competing leaders too. The weight of the leaves can make young trees lean like this and as you stated the sun pattern and the loss of a branch as well. Just make sure when you tie the stake along the trunk and up to the dominant leader that the ties are not too tight around the bark. Let the tree have some sway to it still. 

You can refer to our pruning trees information page to help learn how to create a dominant leader and retrain a leader when one brakes. You can try to find some you tube videos on this as well. 

Emily

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 06, 2024, 3:14 PM EDT

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