FAQ

ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS

Q: I have a hard time applying the C-B ITEs to the stakes. 

The first thing to check is if the C-BITEs and the stakes are roughly matched in size. If so, try the following: 

  1. The groove in the center of the C-BITE is a natural hinge.  Press firmly against the groove (using gloves until you get the hang of it) straight into the stake.  

    1. If you push on the hooks, the hinge closes making it harder to put on.

  2. If you have filled the dovetail before attaching it to the stake, try putting it on the stake first, and then attach the connecting C-BITE.  By filling the groove, the C-BITE becomes ‘locked’ and less flexible.

  3. If you just don’t have a lot of hand strength to apply them, you can push them on at an upward angle, to reduce the friction and get the ‘bite’ open.

  4. You can also press the stake down on the C-BITE and construct on a surface prior to placing the trellis in the ground.

To get the C-BITEs off of the stakes, push against the hooks with your thumbs while stabilizing the stake with your index fingers.

 

Q: The C-BITEs can be hard to get apart

This is by design and in part a reason that we chose the plastic that we did.  Acetel has a smoothness that allows them to slide in and stay.  To get them apart do the following:

  1. Apply pressure in the two directions that would slide them apart - and then wiggle, or ‘walk’ the two C-BITEs apart.

  2. The hook connections can be gently snapped apart perpendicular to the groove direction.

  3. Play with them.  They will ‘soften’ over time and become easier to use while still holding tight!

Q: Will they work with the stakes I already have?  Which C-BITEs do I need?

Almost all 5’ and 6’ garden stakes are 7/16”  - The Orange and Incognito C-BITEs fit them all.

Most 3’ and 4’ green coated steel garden stakes are 5/16” - The Lime Green C-BITEs fit most of them.

 

Q: Will they fit on bamboo or wooden stakes?

Skinny bamboo can be snapped into the hooks which can hold sticks that are roughly 3/16” diameter. Both sizes fit bamboo roughly and can be adjusted to work with a suitable bundle.  The C-BITE is flexible so can be forced to fit larger diameters with some effort.

In addition to bamboo, C-BITEs will bite to rebar, wooden dowels and fiberglass poles. 


Q: What is the difference between the colors?

The Orange and Incognito are the same size and are provided as an option for your preference.

Orange is colorful, will attract pollinators and are easy to see inside of the canopy and on the ground.

Incognito or Stake Green C-BITEs blend into the stakes and the canopy and allow you to enjoy the plant without noticing the support structure.

Lime Green are made to fit 5/16” short stakes that are commonly available elsewhere.

All of the C-BITE’s stakes are 7/16” and work with the Incognito and Tangerine.