Abstract: A method of applying a tree step, having a step part and a tree penetration part connected by a web or shank, to a tree or post or the like utilizing a novel holder-applicator assembly which has inner and outer telescopic members movable relatively from a load position in which the inner member extends forwardly from the outer member to enable loading of the tree step web and step part to the inner member to a rearward position in which the tree step is captured by the outer member. The inner member is first telescopically forwardly extended to a load position and the tree step is loaded to the inner member with the web parallely received in the inner member and with the step part and tree penetrating part extending in opposite lateral directions from the inner member.