Plenty uses of old cycle inner tubes

Even after one too many flats, a used bike inner tube has plenty of uses. One more to add to the list: it can be used as a cushion between a tree trunk and a staking wire.

Cut the valve section out and cut the tube in half. For extra padding, use a double layer of tubing by pulling a section of tube through itself.

One regular bike tube makes two generously sized padding pieces, even after doubling them over. You're ready to thread your wire through and stake up your tree!