how about this idea--decide on how tall you want your "trees" based on area of pond you are placing them and how deep you want to set them in the ground---cut 2 inch pvc to appropropriate lengths and predrill a hole in the 2 inch pvc in the top and above ground level then set the 2 inch pvc in hole with concrete as mentioned above---thru the holes in the 2" pvc tie a matching 4inch drain pipe to the outside of the pvc at the top and bottom using either pull plastic ties or copper wire---then asemble your branches in the 4 inch drain pipe--should be easier to haul and assemble it all at the "tree" site??