Staking and pruning effects on trunk and root development of four ornamental trees

Abstract

Effects of factorial combinations of staking and pruning were tested on four species of ornamental trees grown in a glasshouse during April-August 1977. Trees which were rigidly staked and had lower laterals removed grew taller; however, this was at the expense of base calliper growth and reduced taper of the trunk. The removal of lower laterals decreased root weight. Trees which were staked were not able to stand upright when the stake was removed. In contrast trees grown without staking and pruning were of higher quality (greater calliper and better taper) and were able to support themselves.