Is it worthwhile to use plastic tubes for saplings?

[BetteDavisChin]

Mid-March I planted a hedge in my garden using saplings I was given by a friend. I used the plastic tubes that came with them.

I inspected them regularly for growth and have replaced three or four already.

I'm not convinced that the tubes are improving the health of the saplings. A few are growing reasonably well but others look sickly and weak.

I'm getting to the stage of wanting to take the tubes off, but would like to hear views here.

Short answer is- I don't know.

I saw a gardening show years ago, which said to leave saplings without a support, because the extra movement of the stem makes it stronger over time. I think that was more in reference to trees. Maybe the plastic is making a mini green house and burning the stems? Sorry I can't help, but a hopeful bump to someone that can.

Do you have rabbits or deer regularly visiting your garden? If not I wouldn’t bother with them. Regular watering and a good thick mulch are more useful.

The animals mentioned, and also voles, will chew the bark off, or the deer rub their antlers on them. But if you don’t have them in the garden you won’t need the protection.