After purchasing a tree from the nursery, a hole is dug, and it is planted in your garden or yard. Young trees should be able to stand up tall on their own, but after transplanting them in a new environment, they might need a little help until their roots get reestablished into the new soil and surroundings. Also keep in mind that most nurseries, to avoid using stakes and to maximize on space, often set their trees very close to each other. This promotes height growth, yet sacrifices trunk strength. Remember when you pick a tree at the nursery to look for branches growing along the bottom of the trunk too - not just at the top.
The newly planted tree will concentrate most of its energy into standing upright and reaching for the sun. Its roots try to stretch out amongst the new soil grabbing on to its nutrients. If you think the tree is struggling to get upright, try thinning out the upper branches to reduce wind resistance. When you think the tree needs more coaxing, then stake the tree to help it along in the beginning.
These are some tips to remember when you stake a tree: First, stake the tree long enough only for it to be able stand on its own. Stakes should not be place too tightly around the tree. There should be plenty of room for the tree to sway back and forth in the wind. Try to imagine what it would do naturally when the stakes are taken out. The stakes should be planted firmly in the ground. If the stakes are too loose, they might bend or slip which would prevent them from doing the job intended. The tree should not rub up against the stakes. The stakes should be buried at least one and a half feet underground to provide ample support.
Guy-wiring may be necessary after planting larger trees. This is done by first setting stakes into the ground at strategic points around the tree out from its trunk about three to four feet. Then roping or rubber tubing is extended from each stake to the first group of branches that are strong enough to hold some tension. The guy-wiring enables the tree to develop its root structure firmly into the ground while the growth can be tamed (more or less) in a balanced, steady way.
Another aid and protective measure to give newly planted trees, mostly done In the northern United States and Canada, is known as wrapping. Wrapping refers to the technique of winding a crepe-type paper around the barks of trees. This is done to prevent the sun-scalding of thinly-barked trees like soft maples and crabapples during the first one or two winters after planting. To wrap a tree, start at the bottom and just wind the paper up around the tree to the level of the second branch. Fasten the paper at the top with a tack. To prevent moisture buildup, disease and insect infestation, don't forget to remove the wrapping each spring.
