I am not a fan of staking trees but I've noticed this winter that my ornamental 'Rudolph' crab tree has an awful lean towards the east in the top half of it.

The tree has been planted for 3 years and is about 12 feet tall and is spindly. Any takers on how to correct the lean it is taking? I'll stake it if I have to.

if it's only the top half that is leaning, i'd say it's just the growth pattern and staking won't help.

have you ever pruned it?? that might be all you need to do.

I do keep it pruned, I am honestly thinking of digging it out and replacing it because it is in my front yard. And at it's full height and growth the lean isn't going to be a pretty sight.

can you post a pic of it?