How To Fix A Leaning Arborvitae

Fixing a leaning arborvitae starts with understanding why it’s tilting in the first place.

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If you’ve noticed your arborvitae leaning after a storm or over time, the good news is you can usually straighten it yourself.

How to fix a leaning arborvitae depends on factors like the tree’s size, the root condition, and the soil stability.

In many cases, you can fix a leaning arborvitae with simple staking and some soil care.

This guide will walk you through the common reasons your arborvitae is leaning and the best steps to fix a leaning arborvitae for good.

Let’s get started.

Why Does My Arborvitae Lean?

Before you start fixing a leaning arborvitae, you need to know why it’s leaning.
 
Here are the main reasons arborvitae lean and how each affects your approach:
 

1. Wind Pressure

Strong wind is one of the most common causes of a leaning arborvitae.
 
When the wind consistently hits from one direction, the tree gradually bends away from the wind.
 
This is especially true for young arborvitae with shallow roots.
 
To fix a leaning arborvitae caused by wind, you’ll need to reposition it and provide support.
 

2. Shallow Root System

Arborvitae have fibrous, shallow roots that don’t anchor deeply into the ground.
 
This makes them more prone to leaning after heavy rain or loose soil.
 
If your arborvitae is leaning because of weak roots, fixing a leaning arborvitae requires improving root stability.
 
Sometimes simply tamping down the soil around the base helps.
 

3. Heavy Snow or Ice Load

Snow and ice can weigh down branches, pulling the entire arborvitae sideways.
 
This is common in areas with frequent winter storms.
 
To fix a leaning arborvitae after snow damage, you may need to gently push it upright and stake it until new growth holds it in place.
 

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4. Ground Erosion or Soft Soil

If soil washes away from the base, the roots lose their grip and the tree tilts.
 
This often happens on slopes or after heavy rain.
 
Fixing a leaning arborvitae in this scenario involves adding soil back around the root ball and compacting it.
 

How to Fix a Leaning Arborvitae Step by Step

Now let’s get into the practical methods for fixing a leaning arborvitae.
 
These steps work for most arborvitae that are still alive and not completely uprooted.
 

1. Assess the Severity of the Lean

First, check how far the arborvitae is leaning and whether the roots are broken.
 
If the tree is leaning more than 45 degrees or the root ball is visible, you may need extra help.
 
For smaller leans under 20 degrees, fixing a leaning arborvitae is usually straightforward.
 

2. Gather Your Materials

You’ll need stakes (wooden or metal), soft tree tie straps, a mallet, and possibly a shovel.
 
Avoid using wire or rope directly on the trunk as it can damage the bark.
 
Having the right supplies makes fixing a leaning arborvitae much easier.
 

3. Straighten the Tree Gently

Push the arborvitae slowly back into an upright position.
 
Don’t yank it — you could tear roots.
 
For larger trees, use a rope attached to a fixed point and pull gradually over several days.
 
This method is part of how to fix a leaning arborvitae without shocking the root system.
 

4. Install Stakes for Support

Drive two or three stakes into the ground at a 45-degree angle away from the tree.
 
Anchor the stakes firmly outside the root ball area.
 
Then attach the tree tie straps loosely around the trunk, leaving room for growth.
 
Staking is a key step when fixing a leaning arborvitae that needs temporary support.
 

5. Backfill and Firm the Soil

If the soil is loose, add fresh topsoil around the base and tamp it down.
 
Water the area well to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
 
This step helps the roots re-establish, which is essential for fixing a leaning arborvitae long term.
 

6. Check and Adjust Stakes Monthly

Leave the stakes in place for at least one full growing season.
 
Check the straps to ensure they aren’t cutting into the bark.
 
Loosen them if needed so the tree can grow thicker.
 
After a year, remove the stakes to let the arborvitae stand on its own.
 

Preventing Future Leaning in Arborvitae

Once you’ve succeeded in fixing a leaning arborvitae, you want to keep it upright.
 
Here’s how to reduce the chance of it leaning again:
 

1. Plant Arborvitae in Groups for Windbreaks

Planting arborvitae in a staggered row reduces wind pressure on any single tree.
 
This natural windbreak helps prevent future leaning.
 

2. Keep Soil Moist but Well-Drained

Arborvitae need consistent moisture, but soggy soil weakens roots.
 
Improve drainage by adding compost or sand before planting.
 

3. Prune to Reduce Top-Heaviness

If your arborvitae becomes top-heavy, it may lean under its own weight.
 
Lightly prune the uppermost branches to balance the shape.
 
This is a smart preventive measure for fixing a leaning arborvitae before it starts.
 

So, How to Fix a Leaning Arborvitae?

Fixing a leaning arborvitae is possible with the right diagnosis and action.

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Start by identifying why it’s leaning — wind, weak roots, snow, or erosion.

Then gently straighten the tree, stake it properly, and firm the soil.

With patience and regular checks, your arborvitae can stand tall again.

Remember, how to fix a leaning arborvitae isn’t complicated if you act early.

A little support now saves you from losing the tree later.

Happy gardening.