Straightening a Leaning 20-ft Cupressus: Stake, Dig, Push

A 20–30° lean on a 20-foot cupressus is correctable with effort:

1. Drive two stakes opposite the lean, 3–4 ft apart.
2. Attach two padded wires (old hose over bark) at ⅔ height, pull taut to stakes.
3. Excavate a wide hole (10× trunk diameter) on the lean-away side to expose roots.
4. Push tree upright; helper takes up wire slack on stakes.
5. Backfill firmly, tamp with feet.
6. Leave stakes 1 year for root stabilization.

Labor-intensive but effective. Don't just rope-pull—roots must be freed to pivot.