Title: Efficacy of Conventional Tree Stabilization Systems and their Effect on Short-term Tree Development

Summary: We evaluated three tree stabilization systems (staking, guying, and root ball anchoring) on 2.5 inch caliper balled and burlapped white ash (Fraxinus americana ‘Autumn Purple’). At five weeks and at seven months after planting, stabilization system performance was evaluated under ambient wind conditions and wind simulating pull tests. Non-stabilized trees remained upright for the entire study despite occasionally substantial wind gusts. Pull tests indicated that the stabilization systems performed equally well and that even non-stabilized trees were tolerant of moderate to heavy winds. Stabilization systems differed in the maximum force they endured before component failure with guying systems withstanding the greatest force. Stabilization systems did not substantially impact tree stem or root growth after seven months.

Eric Wiseman, Ph.D., Virginia Tech, Forestry, Blacksburg, VA, United States

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