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Should I take the ties off my trees now?

fizzylizfizzyliz Posts: 398
We planted some young trees Autumn last year. Should we leave the ties on a little longer or take them off now? I’ve attached a photo of one tree. Thanks!

Posts

  • Busy-LizzieBusy-Lizzie Posts: 24,043
    I always remove the ties they arrive in straight away put on my own ties, those rubbery ones with wire inside, then I can loosen them as the tree grows. I think there is one on your tree. That plastic tape with a metal clip one is what I would have removed when  planting it.
    Dordogne and Norfolk. Clay in Dordogne, sandy in Norfolk.
  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090
    This is the best way to stake new trees until their roots have had time to develop enough to hold the tree themselves - https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=208 

    The tie needs to be adjustable and pass between the stake and the  tree to avoid damage to the trunk and it needs to be low down to let the trunk sway a bit in the wind as this improves strength.  You also need a clear circle around the tree to reduce competition for nutrients and water while it establishes.  You can use a mulch of chipped bark or Strulch or something similar to suppress weeds.
    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
  • ErgatesErgates Posts: 2,953
    How big a cleared circle does a small tree need to reduce competition?
  • Allotment BoyAllotment Boy Posts: 6,774
    About 1 metre. 
    AB Still learning

  • ErgatesErgates Posts: 2,953
    Thanks.
  • fizzylizfizzyliz Posts: 398
    @Busy-Lizzie @Obelixx thank you very much for your replies 😊
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