[RedChariot]

Originally Posted by Bonanza

It sounds like you need a professional to help you.
If the stakes are pulled out, I assume your trees aren't perfectly straight (upright)?

We had a tree blown down in one of the storms 2 weeks ago. Tomorrow, we are having it taken out, digging the hole again, and re-staking it like a brand new tree.

As far as pruning goes, while directions are fine,
I would only let a licensed arborist do the job.
There are too many would-be landscapers here that would tell you
they know what they are doing and haven't a clue!
You don't want your tree hacked.

Who is doing this work for you? Do you use them for other landscape issues? I am assuming you would give them a good recommendation? We are presently plagued by a top heavy bottle brush tree that keeps toppling over in wind/rain no matter how well staked with wood supports. TIA.