Maple tree tilted for the top 1/3rd - Ask Extension
When I bought this 12' tall Autumn Daze maple tree this spring, I didn't have it staked in the ground after planting. It seemed to get whipped a lot b...
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Maple tree tilted for the top 1/3rd #878070
Asked July 20, 2024, 10:14 PM EDT
When I bought this 12' tall Autumn Daze maple tree this spring, I didn't have it staked in the ground after planting. It seemed to get whipped a lot by the wind and had a couple bends form in the trunk, so I staked it. After a few months, this is what it looks like with a significant bend remaining at the top. Do I need to stake the top for awhile to get the bend out? Will this eventually work itself out without staking? Or will the tree now always have this bend? Any advice would be appreciated, thanks!
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
To start with, please go to this link and open all the boxes under Staking and Guying trees. Your staking is too low and it looks like the tree is not able to sway somewhat. Trees need to be able to move some to develop the side roots that stabilize the tree. Otherwise, once the staking is removed, the tree is not stabilized and will fall over with a strong wind. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/staking-and-guying-trees Secondly, your maple should be pruned for form now while it is young. A good branch attachment is shaped like a U. Branches attached in a V shape will tear off as the get larger and heavier. Don't worry about the top, it will straighten out as long as there is sun. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs It would be good to open all the drop down areas to familiarize yourself with care of your tree.