Expert: Jim Hyland - 10/23/2007

Question
Hello , thanks for answering my previous question earlier today. I also had a question on staking. How do I safely stake a small conifer without damaging the root system? Also , what is the best way to identify some conifers I have? One in particular has needles very similiar to a hemlock but I think it is actually something else. The tree would be native to vermont and similar to a hemlock. Any idea what is could be? It has soft flat horizontal needles and is moderate to dark green

Answer
Conifers generally don't require staking, but there are three exceptions: Those used in very windy locations may need to be staked, but for no more than a year, long enough for anchor roots to develop sufficiently to support the plants. Staking is also beneficial for weeping or pendulous plants that are not yet self-supporting. Finally, if you want to espalier plants (grown flat on a surface like a wall), they should be supported.

I would suggest you call the Vermont Division of Forestry a state agency and ask one of their Forester to assist you in the ID of the tree. They have offices around the state. here is their contact web page.

http://www.vtfpr.org/htm/for_forstaff.cfm