How Do You Stake Quaking Aspen Trees?
Quaking aspens — named for their leaves, which flutter even in the faintest breeze — are deciduous trees with dark-green foliage that turns yellow in the fall. These hardy trees tolerate both heat and cold, growing to heights of 25 to 60 feet. Stake a quaking aspen tree only when it is absolutely necessary, as allowing the tree to sway in the breeze will help it develop a strong, sturdy trunk. Quaking aspen trees may need to be staked in windy areas or if they appear to be leaning. Determine how many stakes will be needed to support the quaking aspen tree. If the trunk is less than 3 inches in diameter, one stake on the tree’s windward side is sufficient. If the diameter of the trunk is more than 3 inches, use three stakes spaced evenly around the tree. Drive the stakes 20 to 24 inches into the soil. The tops of the stakes — which can be wooden or steel stakes or metal pipes — should be no more than one-third of the height of the quaking aspen tree. This will allow the top of the t