HORT Resource Guide

How to Use Tree Straps, Tree Tie & Tree Wrap

Practical guidance for supporting, tying, and protecting newly planted trees using HORT products. The goal is simple: stabilize the tree when needed, avoid bark damage, and remove temporary support before it causes problems.

Start with the right approach

Not every tree needs staking. Many trees establish best when they are allowed to move naturally. Staking is most useful when the root ball is unstable, the tree will not stand straight on its own, or the planting site is exposed to strong wind.

When staking is needed, use wide, soft materials against the trunk, keep the system slightly flexible, and check it regularly. Staking materials should generally be removed after one growing season.

Resource Center Browse HORT tree care articles. Staking FAQs & Myths Common questions about staking trees. Why Tree Straps? Why straps are better than rope or wire.

Tree Straps

Tree straps are made for staking newly planted trees. They create a wide, soft contact point around the trunk, helping avoid the cutting and rubbing damage that can happen when rope, wire, or wire-through-hose is placed directly against bark.

How to use tree straps

Install 2 or 3 stakes around the tree. Place stakes outside the root ball so the support system stabilizes the tree without crowding the trunk.
Position one strap per stake. Place the strap around the trunk where support is needed, but avoid tying the tree rigidly.
Attach through the eyelets. Run wire, rope, or tree tie through the strap eyelets and secure it back to the stake.
Leave slight movement. The tree should be supported, not locked in place. Some movement helps the trunk and roots develop strength.
Inspect and remove on time. Check straps through the season and remove staking materials after the tree is established, generally after one growing season.

Size tip: Use 12" straps for smaller trees around 2" caliper or less. Use 16" straps for larger trees around 2" to 4" caliper. When in doubt, size up for easier installation and adjustment.

Tree Tie

Tree tie is a soft, flexible tying material that can be cut to length. It is useful for trees, shrubs, vines, and general landscape support where a gentler tie is preferred over wire or rigid materials.

How to use tree tie

Cut the length you need. Measure enough material to reach around the plant and back to the support.
Wrap gently. Position the tie so it supports the plant without pinching or rubbing.
Secure to a stake, trellis, or support. Tie it firmly enough to hold, but not so tight that it restricts growth.
Allow room for movement. Plants should have enough flexibility to move naturally.
Check as the plant grows. Adjust or replace the tie before it becomes tight.

Helpful tip: Tree tie works well by itself for general plant support and can also be used with tree straps when staking newly planted trees.

Tree Wrap

Tree wrap is used to protect young or sensitive trunks from seasonal stress such as sun scald, windburn, frost, and harsh winter conditions. It is most commonly used during vulnerable seasons and removed when protection is no longer needed.

How to use tree wrap

Start near the base of the trunk. Begin wrapping low on the trunk and work upward.
Overlap each layer slightly. Keep the wrap even as you move around the tree.
Wrap to the lower branches. Continue until the vulnerable trunk area is covered.
Secure the top with tape. HORT tree wrap is non-adhering, so secure the end with a suitable outdoor tape. A flexible outdoor tape is a good option.
Remove when the danger period has passed. Check trees seasonally and remove wrap when it is no longer needed.

Helpful tip: Apply enough tension for the paper to conform to the trunk, but do not pull so hard that the paper tears.

Additional tree care resources

For more detail, visit these HORT resource pages and outside tree-care references: