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How to support banksia tree after high winds?

amichaelmedia

Hi team

After the high winds the other day, this tree is took a beating

Along with its recent growth and flowers the weight of the tree looks off balance

The base of the tree is also quiet thin which has me worried but that maybe because of the type of tree.

Advice?

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Comments

MitchellMc

Hi @amichaelmedia,

I’d suggest installing four stakes around the tree in a square pattern and using jute webbing to tie the trunk to the stakes. This will help stabilise the tree and keep it upright. You can adjust the position of the stakes and webbing to gently draw the tree back to a more upright position. It should provide the extra support needed while the trunk strengthens and establishes further.

Alternatively, you could use a single stake, which will provide slightly less support as per below.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

AlanM52

Hi @amichaelmedia,

I took the kitchen rubbish out during those high winds and ended up looking and feeling the same way!

I am thinking you already have two fixing points so just add two stakes.

Cheers

amichaelmedia

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/58512#Comment_58512

Staked tree. The flowers look so heavy on it and really push the tree to one side. Should I prune the flowers?

MitchellMc

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/91892#Comment_91892

Banksias are often quite leggy when they’re young @amichaelmedia, which is completely normal. They tend to grow outwards and hang before their branches thicken and become more rigid and self-supporting. You can trim back some of the side branches if they’re causing the tree to lean, especially those carrying heavy flower heads. This will help reduce the weight and encourage the plant to put more energy into growing upright. If you’re happy with the current height, a light tip prune will help keep the top in check and promote a bushier shape. However, if you want the tree to grow taller, just be cautious about cutting back too much, as hard pruning can slow growth in those areas. Another option is to use some jute webbing or soft ties to gently pull and hold the heavier branches closer to the trunk. As the branches mature, they’ll strengthen and hold their position naturally.

This leggy, slightly unbalanced look is quite common for young Banksias and tends to even out as they establish.

Mitchell

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