Live stakes are cuttings from dormant woody vegetation that can be driven into wet soils of streambanks or shorelines for an easy and cost-effective way to revegetate a bare bank. Just as rebar strengthens concrete by reducing cracking and keeping it together, plant roots can do the same for soil. Trees and shrubs native to Tennessee that are adapted to growing at water’s edge have extensive root systems that work to hold streambank soils in place. This allows the bank to resist erosive storm flows that come with the fast-moving high water that occurs as a
result of heavy rains. Live stakes are a cost-effective way to establish trees or shrubs. Over time, they grow into full trees and shrubs, holding soil in place and providing shade to the stream. Live staking also promotes healthy streams by providing wildlife habitat, protecting, and improving water quality.
Published by: University of Tennessee Extension
Date Published: 2013
Link to Resource: https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/SP781-B.pdf
