Stretch-Lock #5 Size Installs Fast & Easy Two Ways!
The Stretch-Lock tying system does double duty in the field. Its locking head fastens securely and its cushioned texture is soft on plant stems. Together, they offer superior flexibility to secure and train young trees & vines. Stretch-Lock can be used as a "Single-Wrap" to simply secure a stem directly to a stake. Where abrasion is a concern, Stretch-Lock can be installed in the "Loop-Through" method to create a rubber buffer between the stem and the stake. Choose the installation option below that's right for your plants.
Note: Stakes shown in images are Plantra's Patented Trunk-Builder Fiberglass Support Stakes. Stretch-Lock will also work with other stake materials including bamboo, wood and metal.
Single-Wrap Method
This method is used to secure plant stems directly to a stake. To install, simply wrap Stretch-Lock around both stem and stake and secure - see diagram to right. If extra length remains after installation, make one more wrap around stake but not the stem.
Common applications for the #5 Stretch-Lock wrap method include securing seedlings to small diameter training stakes in the nursery and young vines to training stakes and trellis wires in the field. Remember to add the stem and the stake diameters together to determine the right bundle size for your situation.
Loop-Through-MethodThis method is used to secure plant stems with a soft, protective buffer between stem and stake. To install, wrap Stretch-Lock in a "figure-8" double loop as shown in diagrams to right and below. Start with a single wrap around the stem - avoid wrapping stems more than once. Next, thread Stretch-Lock head through the opposite end and wrap around stake. If extra length remains after installation, make one more wrap around stake but not the stem.
Common applications include securing seedlings where stem abrasion or radiated heat from metal stakes is a concern. To choose the right Stretch-Lock size for your project, add the stem and the stake diameters together and choose the next size up to allow for figure-8 looping.
