I purchased a new tree sapling by mail. It came with a 3 foot stake running from the roots up the trunk and attached with bands. Can I remove that once the tree is planted?

Answer

The stake that your new tree was shipped with is there primarily for stability and protection during transportation. It is fine to remove it once the plant is in the ground, unless you are planting in a windy site. 

If you are planting a young tree in a windy site, staking may be advisable until the roots develop. If the trunk is less than 2 inches in diameter, then one 2x2 stake driven into the ground close to the trunk and attached with plastic ties is sufficient. Check that the existing stake is sturdy enough for this purpose. If the trunk is more than 2 inches thick, use 2 or 3 stakes on opposite sides to anchor the tree.

Read more about the important steps to protect your investment by carefully selecting, siting and planting a tree in our Guide.

Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service.

  • Last Updated Apr 29, 2026
  • Views 13
  • Answered By Leslie Coleman

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