How to Brace Up a Leaning Tree

Bracing Up a Leaning Tree

• 1

  Measure the height of the tree. Determine the midpoint of the trunk. Select two wooden stakes long enough that they measure to approximately the midpoint of the trunk, plus 18 inches.

• 2

  Use a hammer to drive one stake into the ground on one side of the tree, beyond the tree's root ball. Pound the other stake in on the opposite side of the tree. Stakes should be driven 18 inches into the soil.

• 3

  Push the tree upright and hold the tree in that position -- an assistant may be necessary. Use your measuring tape to determine the length from the tree trunk's midpoint to the stake. Multiply this measurement by two. Measure and mark the measurement on a strip of tree tie. Add 2 to 3 inches to the measurement. Cut the tie with scissors. Mark the same measurement on a second strip of tree tie and cut it.

• 4

  Position one end of one tree tie strip against a stake and attach them together with a staple gun. Stretch the tie toward the tree and twist the tie once where it will come into contact with the tree trunk. Wrap the tie around the trunk, slightly above the trunk's center. Then pull the opposite end of the tie back toward the original stake. Staple the other end of the tie to the stake.

• 5

  Take the other strip of flexible tree tie and staple its end to the other stake. Wrap it around the tree trunk, after twisting it once where it will come into contact with the trunk. Position the second tie just above the first one on the trunk. Staple the tie's opposite end to the second stake.