Tree and shrub stabilizing apparatus and method for stabilizing a tree or shrub

#The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for stabilizing newly planted trees and shrubs to prevent them from shifting or toppling while their root systems are first developing,

#In the initial period, newly planted trees or shrubs typically require some level of assisted support to avert tilting or toppling. Strong winds and excessive moisture can cause a poorly supported tree or shrub to lean excessively or fall to the ground. Adequate support not only enhances the survival of the tree or shrub during the critical growth period, but also reduces the risks of injury to people and of damage to property. The support is usually maintained until the roots have sufficiently established themselves in the ground. The time required for the roots to establish themselves can vary depending on tree or shrub type, growth conditions, soil type and condition, moisture and nutrient level and other factors. Adequate support is necessary for larger trees or shrubs especially those planted during wet or freezing weather.

#Conventional methods for supporting trees or shrubs typically include driving two or more stakes into the ground adjacent to the trunk or the tree or shrub and tethering guy lines between the trunk and the respective stakes to provide the support. The stakes are usually composed of wood or other suitable material in the form of short spikes a few inches in length to elongate poles a few feet long. The stakes and guy lines are typical adapted for single use. Such conventional methods are also generally suitable for stabilizing small to moderate sized trees and shrubs, and are not recommended for supporting substantially larger trees and shrubs.

#The various embodiments of the invention are described in detail below with reference to the drawings, in which like items are identified by the same reference designation, wherein;

#FIG. 1 is a partial cross sectional view of a planting hole in which the root ball of a tree is planted and stabilized therein by tree stabilizing apparatus for one embodiment of the present invention;

#FIG. 2 is a pictorial view a stake of the tree stabilizing apparatus for one embodiment of the present invention;

#The present invention is generally directed to apparatus for stabilizing trees or shrubs and to prevent their toppling over or shifting from a vertically upright position. The apparatus can be installed in a rapid and simple manner, while being cost effective to fabricate. The apparatus is designed for effective concealment, thus providing a desirable neat appearance of the surrounding area and minimizing obstructions to passing traffic. The apparatus is further designed to avoid direct contact with an associated tree or shrub that may cause damage or injury to the trunk or root system thereof.

#With reference to FIG. 1, a tree stabilizing apparatus 10 is illustrated for one embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus 10 is adapted to provide safe and effective support to a tree 12 having a root ball 14 surrounded by fill soil 18 in a planting hole 16. The planting hole 16 is typically prepared by digging a hole having a diameter twice that of the root ball 14. The apparatus 10 includes two or more stakes 20 arranged in a spaced apart manner around and adjacent to the circumference of the root ball 14. In this example, three stakes 20 are shown positioned equidistant from one another. It is noted that the number and arrangement of the stakes can vary depending on the size of the tree and root ball, the soil conditions, soil type and the like.

#The stakes 20 are each configured to be driven vertically through the fill soil 18 into surrounding undisturbed soil 22 beneath the planting hole 16 to provide firm anchoring. Preferably, the stakes 20 are positioned adjacent to the root ball 14 of the tree 12. The stakes 20 are adapted to be driven into the ground through suitable means including hammering and the like. It is noted that the lengths of the stakes 20 can be modified as necessary depending on the needs of the application at hand, the depth of the planting hole, soil conditions, terrain features, and the like.