Avoid placing a tie on the trunk closer than 30 inches from the tip, especially on trees not previously staked. This arrangement will subject the trunk to maximum stress at the tie and increase the chances of it being deformed or broken by the wind. A flexible auxiliary stake of light spring steel or bamboo may be needed to support the trunk terminal. In a densely-headed tree, thinning out some of the branches will lighten the top and reduce its resistance to the wind. Young trees are particularly subject to vandalism, and few staking devices have successfully prevented damage.
Many agencies plant larger trees to reduce tree damage.
Planting trees with fairly dense skirts of small twigs along the lower trunk obscures vulnerable trunks. The stake is removed after one year. Even trees that can stand without support need protection from equipment operations and other activities. To protect the trunks, set two or three short stakes just outside the root ball with 18 to 24 inches exposed. Other trees may be poorly anchored by their roots, although the trunks seem sturdy enough to hold their tops upright.