An infographic describing poor use of tree stakes. Stakes and wire attachments left on too long cause damage and prevent trees from gaining strength and stability. Tree stakes are not attractive and diminish the aesthetics of the community. Mature trees in their natural form and without stakes are more attractive. Remove stakes when the tree is 3/4 the size of the stake or greater. Remove all hose and wire attachments. Cut away materials that have become embedded in the cambium or bark tissue without cutting into the tree. Use a sharp utility blade. Ideally these items would be removed prior to being absorbed into the tree. Stakes should be removed entirely and not just cut at grade. Backfill cavity left by removing the stake with clean soil. Do not fill cavity with decomposed granite as this will cause overheating of the soil and damage to the roots. Extra tips: prior to removing stakes, check stability of tree in surrounding soil. Firmly grasp trunk, push and pull to see if tree can be rocked back and forth. If soil around tree trunk can be disturbed by this action, roots have not adequately anchored into the soil and further investigation is needed.