Staking Trees With Rebar

Many younger or weak trees are susceptible to wind damage, which is where staking becomes a necessity. During this process, the tree is tethered to a post, which is then driven into the ground to provide support. Metal rebar, or reinforcing bar, is generally used to strengthen concrete and other building materials. These metal rods are ideal for staking, as they are strong, durable and won’t break even during the windiest conditions.

Spray paint
Mallet
Bicycle inner tube
Scissors

Instructions

- 1
  Determine where you’re planting the tree. Place an “X” over the area with spray paint. Drive the rebar into the ground approximately 2 to 4 inches from the center of the “X” with a mallet. North Carolina State University suggests driving the rebar into the ground before the tree is planted and to a depth that would leave approximately three-quarters of the tree’s height out of the ground.
- 2
  Plant the tree according to its requirements. Once complete, loosely secure the tree to the rebar with an unwanted bicycle tire’s inner tube. Cut the bicycle tire with a pair of sharp scissors before looping one end around the rebar.
- 3
  Secure the other end to the tree with a knot and pull them together until the tree is loosely attached to the rebar. According to Fine Gardening, the bicycle tire keeps the tree in place without damaging the bark.
- 4
  Remove the rebar and bicycle tire approximately one year after planting the tree.

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