Leaning tree problem

4 years ago

Planted this maple about 18 months ago. It’s really growing nicely, but about 9 months ago I had to stake it because the roots weren’t strong yet. Now it seems to be leaning the OTHER way. I took the strap off because the tree seems solid. At a quick glance do you all think this will straighten out or would it be prudent to stake from both sides?

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Comments (8)

Christopher CNC
4 years ago
Look at the large trees in the background. What do they have to say about it?
Illini Fan
Original Author
4 years ago
Yeah I know. Hate those trees. I’d like to keep that from happening out front.
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krnuttle
4 years ago
Try as you might, the tree is going to grow like it wants to. If the tree wants to grow at an angle then it is going to grow at an angle. Over time the tree will grow straight.

Looking at the picture the lower trunk looks straight, (Edge of house and Stake as reference)

Trees grow patterns are different. We planted a Nuttal Oak in front of our house about 10 years ago. When it was young each year I went through the same thing. The seasons growth comes in at an angle to the main truck. Each season I was afraid that it was starting to grow crooked. Now after the 10 years the tree is straight with no bends in the trunk.
UpperBayGardener (zone 7)
4 years ago
There is actually a case for fixing a lean in rare cases, like my Chinese Cypress that was toppled by a snow and ice storm, but this is definitely not one of them.
ken_adrian Adrian MI cold Z5
4 years ago
find something else to fixate on ..

and next time.. buy smaller .. and pick a tree with a better leader.. and plant it so the leader is straight ...

frankly.. at this size.. im not sure you could stake it if you wanted to ... its be like trying to bend an arrow bow ....

ken
Illini Fan
Original Author
4 years ago
I bought smaller, this thing was tiny 18 months ago. And I get what you’re saying Ken. I’d just like the only tree in my front yard not to be a leaner. Was hoping for better results since it was purchased and planted by a reputable nursery.
ken_adrian Adrian MI cold Z5
4 years ago
planted by a reputable nursery.

==>>> well there is a lesson learned.. lol ...

when the tree is a foot or 2 thick.. you probably 2ont even notice the alleged lean.. or you will be dead ... and probably wont care ..

buy small enough that you can get it home in your vehicle.. and carry it yourself.. and plant it yourself.. otherwise.. you are just wasting money.. IMHO .... warped as it is ... my usual justification is i can buy more plants with the money saved ...

and now you know how fast they grow .... why buy large ...

ken
3onthetree
4 years ago
Add a splint stake up into the canopy. And 3 ground stakes.