How to straighten a tilting tree?

How can a tree be prevented from leaning?

During the first few years, your young tree is developing the structure of its root system. This is why it is strongly advised to use a stake after planting a tree. This will prevent your tree from leaning in the wrong direction.

In the long term, however, staking can make your tree reluctant to develop a root structure. It is therefore advisable to remove the stake after 2 years.

Can my tree be straightened?

Under certain conditions, you can use a stake for your leaning tree. Staking helps solidify a tree if it is very exposed to prevailing winds, if its trunk is thin and if it develops very few roots in relation to its crown.

However, the majority of trees cannot be straightened. If your tree is more than 5 years old, for example, its root system is probably stable. Therefore, you cannot straighten it, as you will risk deforming it.

How to stake a leaning tree?

When installing your stake, you must allow your tree to move a little in the wind so that it retains the natural flexibility of its trunk.

Your stake must also be adapted to the height and diameter of the tree. It must also be solidly anchored in the ground to be able to withstand wind gusts and bad weather. Your stake must not prevent or slow down the tree's growth. You must therefore adjust the fasteners as the trunk grows.

The type of stake depends on the diameter of the tree. A single stake is used for trunks with a diameter of less than 5 cm and multiple stakes are used for trunk diameters between 5 and 10 cm. Bracing is used for trees with a diameter greater than 10 cm.

How to remove a tree stake?

After 2 years, when the tree's root system is strong enough, you must remove its stake. However, you must not forget to remove the tether as well to allow the trunk to grow.

Is my leaning tree dangerous? Should I cut it down?

A tree leaning towards a house or a place where children play can be a cause for concern. To find out if your tree is dangerous, check to see if its roots are growing out of the ground. If they are, you must cut it down urgently.

If your tree is leaning in a direction that does not compromise your safety or the safety of others, you can wait to see how the tree reacts. The tree may recover from its trauma by returning to an upright position. If this is not the case and your tree continues to lean in the same direction, it may be best to cut it down.

How to cut down a leaning tree?

Cutting down a tree must be done in a safe manner. You should therefore avoid doing it yourself and get professional help. They will know how to cut a tree so that it falls in the right direction.

About Arboricureuil

For more than 10 years, Arboricureuil has specialized in pruning, trimming and cutting down trees in Montréal. We also offer a 24/7 emergency tree felling service.