Seeking advice on planting crape myrtle & retama trees saplings

[onetexan]

Hi folks,
I have 6 Arapaho Red Flowering Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemi) Tree saplings, 5 retama saplings (Texas native xeriscaping shrub/tree) & 3 redbud saplings i need to put into the ground this weekend. I've planted trees before, but usually the larger size. This is the first time i'm planting trees from saplings. I've read up on the spacing (at least 12-15 ft apart, 5 ft. from the fence), but need to know whether i should brace the saplings with a stake. I've read some don't recommend tying them to a stake but i'm afraid they may be buffeted by strong winds and break.

Also, i've read saplings don't grow as fast - about 6 - 12 inches rather than up to 2 ft/year. If you've planted saplings i'd be happy to read your advice. I'm in zone 8B.

Thanks in advance,
OneTexan

[Major Nikon]

1. I generally never stake trees

The wind encourages stronger trunks and roots. The only time I will stake a tree is if it is growing at an angle I don’t like and even then only for the shortest duration necessary.

[onetexan]

2. whoa that's interesting that the wind encourages stronger trunks & roots

The seller i ordered from doesn't recommend staking them either. I'll see how well they do w/out stakes. Thanks!