Staking Plumeria tree (frangapini)

Question

I planted a Plumeria tree (height of 60cm) in my garden 2.5 years ago. I trimmed any side shoots and staked the tree with bamboo in hope of developing a strong healthy tree with a single trunk. The plant grew to a height of 200cm with spindly trunk of 160cm and a ridiculous diameter of 5 cm. I was hoping the day will come and get rid of the stake. But, unfortunately, the tree still rely on the support. Is there is any solution or ideas I can do to make the tree strong and withstand on its own? Thanks.

Answer 1

Certain staking methods promote strong trunk development, while other methods can actually weaken the trunk. See the diagrams in these articles about proper staking and guying techniques. If the stake with your tree doesn't look like any of the diagrams (especially if the stake is placed right against the trunk, or if it is attached so that the trunk cannot naturally move with the wind) it is probably doing more harm than good.

If so, change your method to one of the proper staking/guying methods shown, and your tree should begin to strengthen. Then, remove the stake as soon as the tree can stand on its own.

http://www.myminnesotawoods.umn.edu/2008/12/staking-and-guying-trees-best-materials-and-technique/
https://www2.tntech.edu/tlcfortrees/mulching_staking.htm