Oak Trees

As summertime rolls around and you’re thinking about updating your property, you may be considering planting a new tree that will grow into a cornerstone of your yard. Eventually, you’ll have shade, a place for the kids to climb, and a beautiful little sea of color in the fall. We can picture it now, and hope you can, too!

In general, the best oak trees to plant include willow, black, Japanese evergreen, water, pin, chinkapin, post, bur, and white. These oak trees adapt well to many different habitats and conditions while provide marvelous beauty and shade.

Below, we are going to give you some of the best varieties of oak to plant, complete with a pros and cons list for each. We’ll answer some commonly asked questions that we hear regarding oak trees as well.

What Is An Oak Tree?

So, let’s start simple. What exactly is an oak tree and how is it different from literally any other tree?

An oak tree produces acorns, the fruit that we consider to be a nut. You know, the thing that squirrels love and groundskeepers despise just a little. Its wood is used in creating hardwood floor panels, furniture such as chairs and desks, and cabinets or other storage devices. 

There are a wide variety of oak trees, some more adaptable than others and some with better aesthetic qualities. When it comes down to it, though, oak trees are pretty regularly long-lasting, durable, amenable trees. 

How Many Varieties of Oak Trees Are There?

We can start by dividing up oak trees into two categories: red oak and white oak. 

This helps give us some sort of starting point since there are dozens of varieties of oak trees in North America. Beyond that, the varieties are endless. Between new varieties, hybrids, and mutant varieties of oak, quantifying these trees is easier said than done. 

All in all, there are about 500 species of oak trees.

What is the major difference between red and white oaks, you may be asking yourself right about now? The biggest difference is the shape of their respective leaves and the speed at which their acorns develop.

Red Oak Tree

Red oak trees have more of a pointy end on each part of the leaf, very dark bark most of the time, and slower developing acorns.

Some of the most common varieties of red oak are:

• Willow Oak
• Black Oak
• Japanese Evergreen Oak
• Water Oak
• Pin/Nuttall Oak

Keep in mind that these are only a few varieties and if you expected to see one that is not on here, that doesn’t mean that it is not a great variety. We only have so much space and time to talk about a tree that has a huge range of variants spread out across the globe.

White Oak Tree

White oak trees tend to have leaves that are much more rounded, for starters. They also develop their acorns faster than the red oak does. The bark of a white oak has a much more grayish tinge than its red, darker counterpart does.

Some of the most common white oaks include:

• Chinkapin
• Post Oak 
• Bur Oak
• White Oak

The differences between red and white oaks are not extremely obvious, but each category and variety of oak has a purpose to serve. In one situation, a red oak might be best. In another situation, a white oak could prevail. 

It all comes down to the environment, the need, and the long-term goal for the tree that you are planting.

Luckily for you, we have taken the time to compile a list of the 9 best oak trees to plant, including pros and cons for each so you know that you have made the best choice for your unique situation.

Again, if you aren’t seeing a variety that you were expecting to see, that does not mean that your potential choice is wrong, or that your knowledge of that variety is in vain. With about 500 species of oak, this would be a very long piece if we tried to cover even 10% of the oak tree varieties out there.

If you’re interested, you can read our fancy guide on the main differences between oak and maple trees here.

The 9 Best Oak Trees To Plant

If you’re thinking about planting an oak tree, consider the environment you are planting it in. Is it poorly draining soil or well-draining soil? Are the summers hot? Winters wet?

All of this comes into play when choosing the oak tree that has the best chance of survival in your specific area.

Without further delay, let’s check out the 9 BEST oak trees to plant, and the pros and cons of each.

Willow Oak Tree

The willow oak is characterized by fine twigs and a strong branch structure. It prefers a moist environment but is flexible in the way that most other oaks are, too.

Pros 

• Transplants more easily than most other oak varieties
• Tolerates poorly drained soil

Cons 

• Produces acorns that may create clutter in your yard
• Requires full, direct sunlight

FYI – the willow oak (Quercus phellos) is different than a typical willow tree, which is from the genus Salix. If you’d like to purchase a willow oak tree, take a look at this fantastic option from Fast-Growing Trees.

Black Oak Tree

Black oak trees, though the name indicates otherwise, are actually part of the red oak category. They’re found in all the coastal regions of North America. This variety also resides a little way inland.

Pros 

• The bark has multiple medicinal uses from an astringent to helping with sore throats, fevers, asthma, colds, and so much more. 
• Beautiful, vibrant leaves in all seasons

Cons 

• Its irregular form means that it might look rather unruly as it grows
• Difficult to transplant, so unlikely to be found in a nursery

Japanese Evergreen Oak Tree

This variety of oak is native to parts of China, Korea, Taiwan, and, of course, Japan. A North American resident since the end of the 19th century, it is an oak tree that is known for the material it produces. 

Some Japanese martial arts practice weapons are made out of this Japanese evergreen oak wood. This ties culture, history, and durability all together in a really cool way.

Pros 

• Pests are not as likely to attack this tree
• Acts as a great shade cover
• Tolerates soil of many kinds, and is flexible in a range of conditions

Cons 

• There is a chance that the tree will be attacked by pathogens such as cankers 

Water Oak Tree

Water oak is a variety that holds deep importance when it comes to wildlife and how we utilize oak for our daily needs. Water oaks are used as plywood in produce containers and provide shelter, food, and habitat to the wildlife that roams around it.

Many birds prefer to nest in water oaks, and they also are often home to flying squirrels and other smaller critters.

Pros

• Their acorns provide a source of food to wildlife like squirrels, chipmunks, waterfowl, bluejay, wild turkey, and more.
• Provides lots of shade for your yard

Cons 

• Very susceptible to disease and insect attack
• Flowers often do not withstand late frosts
• More susceptible to air pollution than other varieties

Pin/Nuttall Oak Tree

The Nuttall oak is taking over the place of the pin oak, as a very similar but faster-growing, more resilient variety. If you are looking for a long-lasting oak that won’t take decades to mature, this is your guy.

Pros 

• Fast growing oak tree
• Thrives in a range of soil conditions
• Requires minimal care

Cons 

• Needs at least 6 hours of unfiltered sunlight daily
• Grows large and wide in a quick time, not great for small spaces
• Produces acorns that you may not want falling in your yard

If you’re interested in a Pin Oak, you can grab one here for delivery to your doorstep!

Chinkapin Oak Tree

This oak is a medium-large size and is great for more expansive outdoor spaces. Again, a small backyard might not be the best home for this tree, but it looks amazing and is rather adaptable.

Pros 

• Acorns of this variety are a preferred food source for many wildlife and won’t stick around your yard
• Leaves feed cattle, if you are looking for a tree that serves animals, too
• Durable and adaptable variety

Cons

• Too large to thrive in small areas
• Needs direct sunlight and open space

Post Oak Tree

A slow-growing white oak, this tree is more suitable for dry areas due to its resistance to rot, fire, and drought.

Pros 

• Fire Resistant
• Drought Resistant
• Rot Resistant

Cons

• Slow-growing
• Susceptible to diseases like cankers and wood-boring insects

Bur Oak Tree

Also spelled burr, at times, this is a beautiful variety of oak that thrives in a wide range of environments from moist woodlands to dry sandhills.

Pros 

• Beautiful tree when fully mature
• Tolerant of many soil types
• Long lifespan 

Cons

• Produces large acorns that may not be ideal right next to your home
• Large in size and not appropriate for small spaces

White Oak Tree

A tree that thrives best in loamy, well-drained soils, this variety happens to be more durable than the red oak.

Pros 

• A type of oak tree that is tolerant of partial to heavy shade, unlike all of the others on this list that need as much direct sunlight as possible
• Acorns provide food for wildlife
• Excellent provider of shade at maturity 

Cons

• Young trees hold their leaves through winter and can be a bit aesthetically awkward at the beginning of their lives
• Flowers and acorns can be overwhelming in some years, especially as they fall into your yard

If you’d like to purchase a white oak, you can get one delivered here!

Best Oak Tree Annual Growth, Full Height and Hardiness Zone

Here’s a quick dataset for some of the most popular oak trees, and not just the best ones we discussed on this list. Feel free to search your favorite tree then keep on reading below!

Other Considerations When Planting Oak Trees

There are a few other, more general, rules of thumb that you should keep in mind when planting an oak tree. 

You don’t want to be unprepared and later realize that you could have made a simple change early on that would have made everything easier.

So let’s dive into some important factors like time of year, speed of growth, location preferences, benefits of having an oak tree, and even aesthetically pleasing varieties. 

When Is The Best Time Of Year To Plant Oak Trees?

Any time of year that the soil is not frozen is a good time to plant an oak tree!

Realistically, late summer or early fall is going to be your best bet. This allows the tree to establish roots in plenty of time before the soil freezes. It won’t do you or your new tree any good if you don’t allow for enough time to settle in before those cold winter months.

If you are looking to transplant an oak tree, it is best to do this in early spring. Perhaps February or March would be ideal but it is really about transplanting just before all of the other flora in your area begins to bud.

Which Oak Tree Grows The Fastest?

In truth, the southern live oak, valley oak, Japanese evergreen and nuttall oak trees are the fastest-growing species of oak and grow 24-36 inches per year. 

What Is The Prettiest Oak Tree?

This is quite a subjective question, of course. However, there are three varieties of oak trees that are classically beautiful and tend to be loved by all. They might not all show up on the list of our top 9 oak trees, but these deserve a special mention either way:

• Scarlet Oak Tree– this is an excellent shade tree that is rather attractive to all sorts of wildlife thanks to all its foliage. Its vibrant red leaves in the fall are a wonder to witness and give this tree some serious brownie points in the ‘pretty’ category.
  
• Red Oak Tree– a highly adaptable variety that combines beauty and stability, as it can live over 500 years (about 200 years longer than many other oaks.) The deep colors of the leaves in any season and the ability to resist disease make this tree great for planting in any setting.
  
• Bur Oak Tree– with a wide trunk, versatile capacity to handle lots of conditions, and unique leaf shape, this tree is quite a sight. Not only that, this one actually is on our ‘top 9’ list, speaking volumes to its quality and not just its looks.

How Long Do Oak Trees Live?

In general, most oak trees live around 100-150 years! Several species live under this, and there are some very rare exceptions of oak trees that have been alive for thousands of years.

You can read our full guide on how long oak trees live here.

Where Do Oak Trees Grow Best?

Where to grow your oak tree with the most success is dependent on a few factors. Different varieties of oak trees thrive in different environments. 

While most are pretty adaptable when it comes to soil, it is worth doing some research into the specific variety that you are hoping to plant.

What Is The Oak Tree Good For?

Oh, you mean besides improving air quality? Well, these trees help reduce pollution in the air through the same process that stores carbon dioxide and puts oxygen back out into the atmosphere.

Oak trees can absorb up to 10 pounds of pollutants a year according to the Napa County Resource Conservation District. Which is a ton when you stop to consider that these trees live around 400 years. 

Not only do these trees help purify the air that we breathe, but they also help to enrich the soil in which they grow.

Studies show that they are great catalysts for increased soil fertility through nutrient cycling and incorporation of organic matter.

Now those are some benefits that we can get behind!

That’s All For Now!

So, clearly, we have not been able to list for you every single variety, hybrid, and mutant of the oak tree. Hopefully, however, this gives you a good sense of what to expect when you are planting your oak tree. 

Remember, do your research on what type of tree is best suited for your environment, as some varieties of oak are much more resilient and adaptable than others!

From Nuttall oaks to scarlet, red, and bur, there is an oak tree variety out there for everyone! Whether it is strength, speed, looks, or resilience that you are looking for, we know that you will make the right choice when it comes to your newest tree. 

Happy planting!

References

Dahlgren, R. A., SINGER, M. J., & Huang, X. (1997). Oak tree and grazing impacts on soil properties and nutrients in a California oak woodland. Biogeochemistry, 39(1), 45-64.

Pilcher, J. R., & Gray, B. (1982). The relationships between oak tree growth and climate in Britain. The journal of ecology, 297-304.

Union of Concerned Scientists. (2010). (Rep.). Union of Concerned Scientists.

Harden, R. M. (2000). Evolution or revolution and the future of medical education: replacing the oak tree. Medical Teacher, 22(5), 435-442.

The mighty oak tree has been a symbol of strength for centuries. If you think about the process an unassuming acorn takes to become a proud, strong, towering oak tree, it’s pretty impressive! You may just want to be planting one for yourself.

Here’s how to grow an oak tree from an acorn:

1. Gather your acorns
2. Plant them about an inch deep in soil
3. Keep the soil moist
4. Keep the acorns protected
5. Transfer seedling to a larger area
6. Prepare and plant in a permanent spot

Most oak trees will live between 100-150 years.

Below are the simple steps to get your acorns growing into big oak trees. Continue reading to see detailed instructions!

Can I Even Grow An Oak Tree From An Acorn?

Believe it or not, you can grow a tree from an acorn. Getting acorns to grow into oak trees is not very difficult. Get ready, because we are going to explain how you can grow an oak tree from an acorn. 

Have you seen the acorns that have little roots protruding from the shell or noticed a tiny oak seedling in your mulch bed or while on a hike? Ever wonder what it takes to grow a mighty oak tree from that tiny little acorn? 

How To Grow An Oak Tree From An Acorn

Growing an oak tree from an acorn is a lot easier than you might think. If you have ever marveled at towering oak trees and wanted to grow your own, this step-by-step article will guide you on your way. 

If you would rather grow your tree from a sapling, you can learn more about the process here: Oak Tree Sapling: How To Grow Plus Where To Buy.

1. Gather Acorns And Prepare Your Oak Tree

If you have oak trees on your property, gathering acorns will be as simple as going out and picking a handful from the ground underneath your oak tree. If you do not have any nearby, you should be able to find some in a neighboring park or while out hiking. 

Make sure you gather your acorns in the area you will grow them. You want acorns from trees native to your area. It’s not wise to pick them up while on vacation in a far away area and bring them home, because they may not do well in a foreign environment. 

Start looking for acorns in mid-autumn. Most times, you can find acorns on the ground all around the oak tree, but if the critters have been wiping them out before you can gather enough good ones, it’s okay to pick them directly from the tree.

Be sure if you pick them from the tree, they pull free from the caps with relative ease. If you have to struggle, or the cap comes with the acorn, then it is not mature enough to plant yet. 

Do not wait too long to gather your oak acorns though because as autumn winds down and the days get closer to winter, you will compete with deer, squirrels, and other animals that eat acorns. Also, acorns dry out once they drop from the tree, so you will want the plump, fresh ones. 

If you see acorns with tiny holes in them, avoid them because some insects like the acorn weevil drill into them and eat them, or lay eggs inside the acorn. 

After you collect your acorns, check to see if they are viable by dropping them into a bucket of water. Scoop off and dispose of the floaters because they are no good, but the ones settled at the bottom are your viable acorns.  

2. Store Your Acorns And Plan To Grow Your Oak Tree 

You can store them for up to 4 months if kept properly, but you should plant them sooner rather than later. To store them, you need a moist, cool environment away from direct sunlight. If you cannot plant the acorns yet, the best place to keep them is in a container with a slightly damp potting mix, or a sealable storage bag in your refrigerator.

While you are storing the acorns, you will need to check on them every few days, because depending on the species, they could start sprouting in the bag. If this happens, you can plant them. 

During storage, you will also need to remove the acorns and soak them about once a week so they do not get too dry. 

3. Stratify Your Acorns

Stratification is the process of producing an artificial cold season. This means following the above instructions. If you have pin oak, red oak, or bur oak acorns, they will need the process of stratification to grow.

Place these acorns in a plastic container with damp soil, not dripping wet, and then place in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 days. You can also plant them outside and let winter take care of this process for you. Just protect them from hungry animals who make think you have put out a buffet for them. More on this later. 

How Long Does it Take For An Acorn To Sprout?

Now that you are ready to plant the acorns, you want to know how long it will take to see results. It could take up to 4 to 6 weeks to see indications of your sprouting acorns.

4. Begin Growing Your Oak Tree In A Pot Or Soil

You can start your oak tree acorns off in pots or directly in the soil. First, we will start with pots as there are benefits to starting them in containers.

The pots will help protect the oak acorns from critters such as field mice or squirrels who love fresh acorns and other pests like caterpillars who can damage your oak tree. This also will keep the seedling from being accidentally mowed over if you plant them in your yard.

Start with a good quality potting mix or seed starting mix, and set in two oak acorns in a well-draining, pint-sized container in case one is a dud. Be sure to put the acorns on their sides, not up and down, and only set them about an inch deep in the soil. 

Water the soil and do not let it dry out, but do not keep it drowning in water either. The roots need water, but they also need to breathe.

When the top of the soil looks dry, stick your finger in the soil at the edge of the pot about an inch down. If it is dry, then water the soil. 

Move Your Planted Oak Tree Outside If Planted In A Pot

After a few weeks, you will see some seedlings coming up in your pots. If they are not getting any sun, move them to a sunny window or somewhere with plenty of sunlight. Once the threat of frost is over and spring has set in, place your pots outside so the plants can get acclimated to the outdoors.

Moving your oak seedlings outside when the threat of frost is over is beneficial because they get more sun than sitting on a windowsill, and the changes in night and day help to strengthen the plant. 

Again, keep them protected from animals.

What About Planting Oak Acorns Directly Outdoors?

Plant the acorns on their sides about an inch under the soil, water them, and protect them from mice and squirrels by covering the newly planted acorns with chicken wire or hardware cloth.

Newly turned soil often attracts squirrels. Squirrels, deer, and mice will search for all sources of food during the fall months, and especially in the winter months when food becomes scarce. 

To prevent squirrels and other animals from digging up and eating fall-planted acorns, cover your oak tree with chicken wire or hardware cloth fencing after planting. Promptly remove the fencing material in spring when the acorns germinate.

Be patient though, as you may not see anything growing until spring if you sow your acorns outside. During the first few months of being planted outside, oak acorns work on growing a deep taproot in the ground. Do not get discouraged, though.

If you follow all these steps, you should have plenty of oak seedlings in time. With proper steps and care, acorns germinate pretty readily. 

In the spring, when you first see your acorns have germinated, remove the protective mesh or chicken wire. This will keep the metal from becoming entangled in the trunks and leaves of your newly growing oak seedlings.   

5. Repot Your Oak Tree When It’s 6 Inches Tall

When your seedlings reach a height of about six inches, you will need to repot them so they can continue to grow without getting cramped.

You will need some two-quart pots and a good mixture of potting mix and garden soil. A half and half mix of both potting mix and garden soil is a suitable medium for repotting your new oak seedlings.

If the potting mix and garden soil mixture does not have any premixed fertilizer, add one teaspoon of slow-release fertilizer such as the Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor fertilizer. 

For about 3 years, keep your sapling protected while in the pot. Deer will still make a quick meal of the sapling so protect it with a tree mesh cover or screen. Also, make sure you water it when needed, and follow directions for the fertilizer you use.

One example of a protective mesh is this Voglund Nursery Mesh Tree Bark Protector. It comes in sizes ranging from 12 to 48 inches and includes zip ties for installation.

If roots start coming out of the 2-quart pot before the 3 year time is up, it’s time to plant the oak in its permanent home. Plant during a dormant phase of early spring or autumn.  

6. Plant Your Oak Tree In A Permanent Area

Once you have picked the spot your tiny oak sapling will make its permanent home and grow into the big, mighty oak tree, dig a hole 3 times as big as the container.

If the soil is of poor quality or has drainage issues like heavy clay soil, add some organic matter, compost, and/or garden soil. Plant the sapling in the hole keeping the soil from the root ball at the same level as the ground, and water your tree well.

Once you tamp down the soil and water it well, mulch around the tree to help keep the water around the roots. Mulch around the tree about 2 feet wide and 2-3 inches deep, but leave a 2-inch perimeter around the trunk of the sapling. This prevents the trunk from rotting. 

Now your little acorns have grown into saplings and are in their new permanent home, be sure to water them about once a week if you are not getting regular rainfall. Check the soil around the root ball of the tree. It should be damp but not soggy.

During the winter months, watering is unnecessary, as this is a dormant time, and nature will take care of the watering for you during that time.  

After 2 years in its forever home, your oak tree will require less and less watering from you. Start scaling back how much you water the tree, and eventually, you will not have to water it at all. In two years, they will have become acclimated to the weather and will have an established, deep-reaching root system. 

Knowing when and how to water any plant can be daunting. Here are some tips and tricks for oak trees specifically! 10 Simple Tips For Watering Your Oak Tree (How-To Guide)

How Far Away From my House Should I Plant my Oak Tree? 

Oak trees can grow tall and wide, and their roots can cause foundation problems, so do not plant your oak tree sapling close to your house. A good general rule is to plant your oak tree at least 15-20 feet away from your house. This will give the tree plenty of room to stretch out, and prevent falling limbs or creeping roots from growing into your foundation. 

Also, do not plant oak trees near driveways, sidewalks, or walkways. The roots can crack and raise asphalt, concrete, and pavers. 

For more information on oak trees and other species capable of destruction with their roots, read 9 Trees That Can Damage Your Foundation (& How To Fix).

How Long Does It Take An Oak Tree To Grow Acorns?

Here are some interesting and fun facts about oak trees. Did you know there are over 600 different varieties of oak trees and they all produce acorns? Most oak trees take a while to mature and do not start producing acorns until they are 20 to 30 years old, while some take up to 50 years to produce acorns. 

Oak trees are old. They can grow to be over 1000 years old. 

Oak trees are beneficial for animals and humans. Not only are they a food source for squirrels, but deer, blue jays, and mice eat acorns as well. Some uses for oak wood include furniture, tools, flooring, and wine and whiskey barrels.  

You can find more information on squirrels and their love for acorns in this article, 4 Reasons Why Squirrels Eat Acorns (& Their Favorite Type).

That’s A Wrap!

There you have it, how to grow your own oak tree from a simple acorn. With a little patience and a bit of work, you too can enjoy oak trees on your property.

Gather up your acorns, make sure they are viable, and most of all, keep them protected from the little critters out there. Protecting them from little nibblers will be the hardest part of growing oak trees.

Happy growing!

If you’d like, check out our guide: How Long Does It Take to Grow an Oak Tree? Full Timeline

References:

Yard and Garden: Handling, Germinating and Planting Acorns. (n.d.). News. Retrieved January 26, 2022, from https://www.extension.iastate.edu/news/yard-and-garden-handling-germinating-and-planting-acorns

Wittwer, R., Barden, C., & Anderson, S. (n.d.). Retrieved January 26, 2022, from https://forestry.ok.gov/sites/g/files/gmc801/f/documents/2020/growing_oak_trees_from_seed.pdf

Live Oaks From Seed | HortUpdate – Nov/Dec 2010 | Aggie Horticulture. (n.d.). Aggie-Horticulture.tamu.edu. Retrieved January 26, 2022, from https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/newsletters/hortupdate/2010/nov_dec/acorns.html

Woodall, C. W., Morin, R. S., Steinman, J. R., & Perry, C. H. (2008). Status of oak seedlings and saplings in the northern United States: implications for sustainability of oak forests. In In: Jacobs, Douglass F.; Michler, Charles H., eds. 2008. Proceedings, 16th Central Hardwood Forest Conference; 2008 April 8-9; West Lafayette, IN. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-24. Newtown Square, PA: US Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 535-542. (Vol. 24).

That majestic oak tree is a beautiful sight to behold when it’s big and healthy. But that same beauty can be a nuisance it’s growing too close to your house. Though it may pain you to do so, you might have to cut down your oak tree!

You may need to cut down your oak tree if it has recently sustained too much storm damage, is leaning close to your house, or may fall on your own or other’s property. Oak trees that have expanding roots leading to foundation or sidewalk damage should be taken down.

Trees can bring on a sense of pride, add value to your property, or even hold sentimental value, but they don’t last forever. Keep reading as we discuss the reasons you should cut down your oak tree!

Cut Your Oak Tree If Its Too Close To Your Property

Oak trees need between 15 to 25 feet of distance from structures to be safe so they can grow without too much crowding. If your oak tree is getting a little close for comfort, you may have to cut it down.

A new seedling or sapling might be able to be moved to a new home, but once the tree gets established, it will be too big and too heavy to try and move. The root system will be spread much farther than the canopy, and damaging them could permanently damage the tree.

When a tree is very close to the house, branches that will inevitably fall could damage the roof, windows, or vehicles. Even healthy branches can get snapped off during rain storms, high winds, or snow and ice.

If the oak tree was to fall, it could severely damage the house and require extensive repairs. I’ve seen trees that weren’t considered big, shear off whole rooms when they have fallen.

A tree that has grown too close to the house needs to go for safety’s sake. In most cases, there are a few ways that you can get rid of oaks, but if your tree is large, the best option is most likely to cut it down.

You Should Cut Down Oaks That Stop Growing

Maybe your oak tree has stopped growing completely. It’s been looking rather weak for several seasons, but now the bark is falling off all over, the leaves don’t grow anymore, and the bare wood is looking gray. These are signs the tree is dead or dying and needs to be removed.

Trees nearing the end of their lifecycle become more dangerous as branches get weaker and tend to fall off seemingly at random. It could be a fine, blue sky, not a cloud around, without a breeze, but a big oak tree limb still careened down from the tree. When trees are no longer living, the wood gets weaker and large chunks can fall at any time.

Weakened trees also attract insect pests like termites and carpenter ants. When these insects start drilling through the trees, they get even weaker.

When you start seeing signs like this, go ahead and get someone to remove the tree. Being proactive will prevent damage from a falling tree and help keep pests from spreading to otherwise healthy trees.

If you have a specific issue, take a look at our guide on how to stop caterpillars on your oak tree here!

Get Rid Of Dying Oak Trees

Hopefully, if you do have a dying oak tree you can treat it before it gets too bad, but if the illness has caused significant damage, the only option might be to have the tree cut down altogether. 

Signs of failing trees can include yellowing, browning leaves, or early drop before autumn. This could also be signs of drought so getting a tree expert out can let you know for sure. 

Other signs of afflicted oak trees are branch dieback, fungus, bark peeling and falling off, or powdery moldy looking growth on the tree. If you see any of these signs the tree might have some kind of issues that needs to be treated. 

Many tree afflictions can be spread to other trees on your property if they are not properly treated. These problems bring on the insect issues as well. 

They seem to sense weak trees and attack when they are feeling down. It’s nature’s way of weeding out the weak and keeping the strong. If you notice these problems early and get an expert out to treat them, you might be able to save your oak tree!

If too much time has passed and the tree is too far gone though, the best option might be to go ahead and remove the oak tree completely.

You can view our full guide on the most common dying oak tree issues here!

Chop Down Leaning Oak Trees

The fourth reason you might have to cut down your oak tree is that it has begun to take on a precarious lean. 

Your oak tree could be growing a bit lopsided for any number of reasons, but now it’s looking a little suspect. You might be able to get away with trimming it in a way it levels out, but if the lean is too severe, you might have to cut the oak down. 

Oak tree roots don’t grow very deep. They may extend dozens of feet beyond the canopy, but they only go about 18 inches (1.5ft) deep. I mention this because if the tree has too severe of a lean, the roots will simply get ripped out of the ground when the tree finally gives way. 

So, if your oak tree is leaning like a horseshoe on the peg, you’ll most likely have to have it cut so it doesn’t fall on its own.

If you’re wondering about your specific oak tree species, you can take a look at our piece on how long oak trees live!

You Can Cut Down Hollow Oak Trees

A tree with a hollow trunk may live for many years because the living part of the tree is just under the bark. All the nutrients and water flow through a couple of layers just under the surface of the tree. 

It may look relatively healthy except for that gaping hole in the trunk that travels up through it. Or maybe a branch fell off and you see a black hole of nothingness inside. Something has tipped you off that your big oak tree isn’t as solid as it appears. 

While trees in the wilderness with hollow trunks and branches in them can house a lot of wildlife, you don’t want all that in your yard. While hollow trees offer great shelter to animals such as porcupines, and several birds including hawks, owls, woodpeckers, squirrels, and martens, unfortunately, the tree is unsafe in your yard. 

Hollow trees don’t have a fraction of the strength and integrity that full, solid trees have. Branches can fall out of the canopy easier. If insects or rot are active inside the trunk of the tree, it could eventually cause the tree to topple over. 

According to The University of Maryland Extension, The xylem and phloem of a tree are the life support tissues. A tree with a hollow trunk can live for years but will have compromised strength. If one-third of the tree is hollow or rotten, it needs to be cut down. 

Bad Storm Damage May Force You To Cut Down Your Oak

Storm damage can mean wind knocking branches off or splitting the trunk of the tree or a lightning strike that has damaged the tree beyond repair. If the tree is so damaged from the elements that removing it is the only option, then it must be done.

Oak trees are also susceptible to ice damage. When you get heavy snow or especially freezing rain that coats the branches in thick layers of ice, the branches could snap. Some trees bend more than others like arborvitae, sweetgum, and black walnut which are more resistant to ice damage.

You’ll also find that storm damage is likely to strip the oak trees bark as well.

Some oak varieties tend to break with ice and snow, so if any of these storms cause too much damage to your oak tree, you’ll likely have to get it cut down. Especially if the crown or trunk is severely damaged.

If it’s been affected by a thunder storm, you can take a look at our guide on how to save your oak tree struck by lightning!

Cut Down Oaks With Prolonged Insect Infestation

It’s inevitable. If you own property with vegetation, it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when you’re going to get an insect infestation of some type. Oak trees are no different. 

Though there aren’t many bugs that can cause severe damage to oak trees, a continued or persistent insect infestation could mean major problems. 

The most popular bugs that damage oak trees include the tent caterpillar, oak worm caterpillars, and bark beetles. 

You’ve most likely seen tent caterpillars in the trees at some point in your life because they make big clumps of what looks like thick spider webs in the canopy of trees. They typically reach peak numbers during the dog days of summer. 

The caterpillars themselves are fuzzy, usually have a whitish stripe down the middle of the back or on the sides, and can have spots that resemble eyes on the sides. They look rather creepy and dangerous but they are harmless to people. 

They live in these silk-covered nests eating leaves and growing bigger until they morph into moths. Then they only live for a few days, mate, and die. 

To get rid of a small infestation of tent caterpillars, you should cut down any nests you see with this DocaPole 6-24 Foot Double-Duty Telescoping Extension Pole + GoSaw. Once you have removed the nests from the tree, dunk them into a bucket of soapy water to drown the worms. 

If you have a heavy infestation, or the tree is very tall, you should call your local tree expert to help you tend to the problem. 

Oakworm caterpillars usually have two spikes near the head and may have spines running down their back, but they are considered harmless to humans as well. These critters also eat the leaves of oak trees, but without making the unsightly silken clusters like tent caterpillars. 

If your oak tree has a large enough infestation of oak worms, they can strip an entire oak tree canopy, leaving it struggling to make enough food for itself. This can systematically destroy the tree if it can’t create enough food for itself. 

Bark beetles are small, cylindrical, brown, or black beetles up to ⅙ of an inch long. The problem with these beetles is when you see them all you can do is give up on the tree. Once they have set in, it means the tree is too far gone to save it because they will not infest a healthy oak. 

According to UC Berkeley, once bark beetles start attacking the trunk of an oak tree, insecticides won’t help it. The oak is so far gone that it is severely compromised and can’t be saved.

Depending on the severity and type of insects on your oak tree, you may have to get it removed. Consulting a professional tree company will give you more insight into whether the tree can be treated for the pests, or if it can’t be saved and needs to be removed. 

Cut Down Oaks That Cast Too Much Shade

A large healthy oak tree can create a lot of shade which can make it hard to grow grass. Most grass love full sun, and often need plenty of water and fertilizer to keep it growing green, lush, and healthy. So having a big shade tree, and lush lawn often seems impossible to attain.

You might be able to trim off the lower branches of the oak tree to let in enough sun for the grass to grow, but if the tree is a low-growing, long-spreading type, you’ll end up doing more harm to the tree.

Oak trees have a lot of leaves that create a large amount of shade. This shade can easily impede the growth of other plants within the area.

You might be able to find shade-tolerant grass for the area underneath the oak. Then you have to contend with the problem of having two different grass species that require alternating care and may look out of place.

Oak trees have shallow roots which can rise out of the ground which makes the yard look unsightly, as well as difficult to mow without messing up mower blades.

Grass also often requires extra watering and fertilizer. Depending on the oak species, this lawn care regimen can often slowly harm the tree. Ultimately leading to the removal of the tree anyway. For these reasons, you may want the oak tree removed from your yard.

Cut Down Oaks That Cause Power Line Troubles

 Trees and power lines seem to be adversaries because they never get along. Trees that grow into power lines can break them, grow around them, or even end up electrifying branches.

Often, trees that are near power lines are simply cut away from them or completely topped. This kind of aggressive cutting can permanently damage the tree or at the very least leave it looking lopsided and ugly.

When a tree is topped, it means all or most of the canopy is cut away. Sometimes this leaves the tree with few branches and no leaves. Leaving what looks like a sad, spike-less, bark-covered cactus. While some trees will still cling to life and try to grow more branches and leaves, the tree is left in a very weakened state and often dies after a few seasons.

Supposing the tree survives the heavy trimming, or only needs a quarter of the branches removed, it will only require frequent trimming to keep the branches away from the lines. Most times it’s simply best to go ahead and remove the tree to prevent any new problems, especially if it has been topped.

If you do cut down the tree down, you can save the oak tree for firewood!

You Should Cut Down Crowded Oak Trees

When overcrowding happens between trees, you end up with a grove of weak, competing trees that can fall, or invite disease and pests. All trees require a certain amount of sunlight, and the tallest trees tend to get the most.

If you have several oak trees grouped, they will all be competing for enough sunlight to stay strong and healthy. Often they will grow tall, and only really leaf out at the top as they try to take in as much sun as possible before the other tree starts “throwing shade.”

The crowded trees then start to get top-heavy because the lower branches don’t get enough light and fall off. This can lead to trees falling over, especially in high winds or heavy storms. In the forest, this works out fine as the weaker trees are weeded out, but on your property, it can lead to costly repairs and clean-up.

When your trees become too crowded, call up a professional tree company who can help you decide which trees to thin out, and which ones to keep.

Cut Down Oak Trees With Root Issues

Oak tree roots can become a problem if you have pavers, sidewalks, driveways, or other concrete/asphalt structures in the vicinity of an oak tree. Their roots are shallow and can cause cracks in concrete and raise them creating trip hazards.

Though this typically happens closer to the tree’s trunk, an oak’s roots can grow 4 to 7 times wider than the tree’s canopy. Anything on the ground in this area is at risk of being cracked or lifted by the shallow roots. These roots can also penetrate your home’s foundation and cause very costly damage.

You can use root inhibiting chemicals to stop the flow of them or install barriers around your foundation to keep the roots from getting under the foundation and loosening the soil. You can also cut the roots back if you see they are becoming a problem, but this can cause other issues.

Aside from bringing nutrients to the tree, roots also act as an anchor to keep the tree upright. When you start reducing the roots by chemical means or cutting, it could damage the tree. If you live in a high wind or heavy rain area, trimming roots could make it easier for the oak tree to topple over.

An arborist will be able to tell you which roots can be cut, if that is an option, or whether the tree needs to be taken down completely. You don’t want cracked slabs or a sidewalk that’s as hilly as a roller coaster because of tree roots.

Considerations Before Taking Down Your Oak

Now that you know the reasons you may need to cut your oak tree, you might have to take other considerations in mind. Is your neighborhood part of an HOA, is the tree in question situated on an easement, or does the tree share property with a neighbor’s yard?

Maybe – you might just decide that you need to only trim your oak tree after the fact!

Before doing anything drastic to your tree, check on those things. If you are part of an HOA, make sure you can take the tree down by checking closely over the rules and regulations. You may need to call the committee to make sure there won’t be any issues with taking the tree down.

An easement is a part of your property that others can use for different reasons depending on the type. Some great examples include a driveway that a neighbor has to use to get to their property, or a utility easement, which, let’s say the water department can use to lay pipes on your property. 

If the tree in question is located on or near an easement, you may have to get permission to remove it. Check with your local property assessor to find out.

When the tree that needs to come down is on a shared property line, or very close to one, you might have to get the neighbor’s permission as well. To be sure, check with your county or local laws and hopefully you are on good terms with your neighbors.

If you’re going to cut down your oak tree in a non sensitive area (such as in a field with NO surrounding structures), I highly recommend taking a look at our piece on the 10 different ways to remove your oak tree – it’ll help you make the right choice!

When Is The Best Time To Cut Your Oak?

Depending on the state of the tree and how damaged it is, you might need to wait to cut the tree down. Of course, if the tree is ready to fall, is being held up by another tree, or is damaged severely in any way, you should have it removed as quickly as possible.

On the other hand, if the tree isn’t in danger of falling at any second, waiting a little while could save you some money and be safer.

Tree companies are often very busy during the summer months, and throughout the stormy season.

After a hurricane has barreled through tree companies might not have time to cut your tree down, or they will charge quite a bit more because they are so busy, they are paying their employees overtime. That cost is passed on to the consumer.

Waiting until late fall or during the winter when business slows down could get you a deal. Tree companies will often offer discounted rates or coupons during the slow months to get business.

Call around in the cooler months if the tree can wait, your wallet will thank you!

Trimming or cutting your oak tree after all the leaves are gone is also safer. It’s easier to see where all the branches are without all the leaves getting in the way. With all the leaves gone, it’s also easier for the tree-cutting personnel to guide the branches down after they are cut without secondary damage.

Replacing Your Old Oak Trees

After you have your oak tree removed for whichever reason, why not plant another in its place…or two, three…

They don’t have to be oak trees to replace the one you just removed. You may be hesitant to go through such a big undertaking again, that’s understandable, so you could plant a tree that doesn’t get nearly as big as oak trees.

Go with something ornamental like a flowering, weeping cherry, a couple of Bradford pear trees, or maybe even a Japanese maple or two.

You can get this beautiful Two Pack of Japanese Red Maple Trees for a great price. They are small enough (1 to 2 feet tall) to plant nearly anywhere and only grow to 10 to 15 feet tall. Hardy in zones 5 to 8. They don’t require a ton of maintenance and can be beautiful focal points for your landscaping.

You can also view our article on picking out a new oak tree sapling for more info!

That’s A Wrap!

It may be painful to cut down that oak tree in your yard, but there are times when there is no other alternative. Whether it’s been damaged from a storm, is infested with bugs, or has finally reached the end of its life there are several reasons you’ll have to cut down your oak tree.

We hope this guide has helped you make a decision on what to do next!

References

Garbelotto, Matteo, Pavel Svihra, and David Rizzo. “New pests and diseases: Sudden oak death syndrome fells 3 oak species.” California agriculture 55.1 (2001): 9-19.

Boyd, I. L., et al. “The consequence of tree pests and diseases for ecosystem services.” Science 342.6160 (2013): 1235773

Panzavolta, Tiziana, et al. “Tree pathogens and their insect-mediated transport: Implications for oak tree die-off in a natural park area.” Global Ecology and Conservation 15 (2018): e00437.

Martin, Tina, and Thomas Günther. “Complex resistivity tomography (CRT) for fungus detection on standing oak trees.” European Journal of Forest Research 132.5 (2013): 765-776.

Growing trees can be one of the most rewarding things! You may have wondered at some point, “just what the heck is that green fuzzy stuff growing on the outside of my oak tree?” Well, it’s moss, and there’s a few reasons why it’s there.

Moss grows on wet trees and branches out of direct sunlight because it can only grow in moist areas with moderate to low light, as moss spores require water to flourish. If you have moss on your oak tree, it most likely isn’t getting enough sunlight and is in a damp environment.

Read on to learn more about moss, how you can identify it, remove it, and more!

Basics Of Moss Growing On Oak Trees

Moss has pretty basic conditions needed to grow. These conditions are all pertinent to it maintaining life and reproducing. Moss needs both moist and low light conditions.

Moisture is probably the biggest key to moss growth, as moss needs water to reproduce. In addition, having structures such as branches also can increase the chances of moss growth. 

Moss Reproduction

As mentioned, moss needs water (and low light conditions) to reproduce. It creates spores through natural processes, which require water to happen. Without the presence of water, most of these processes occur at lower rates or not at all.

These spores are then released and fly in the wind until they stick to other surfaces (such as rooftops or the sides of trees.)

When the spores attach to other surfaces, they often remain dormant. If they are in the presence of water for a prolonged period, the spores become active and divide on a cellular level, to create new moss. 

Is Moss Safe to Grow On Trees? 

To answer briefly, yes. In most cases, moss is safe to grow on trees as it is not parasitic. However, extreme and excessive moss growth on oak trees can eventually cause tree damage.

This susceptibility to damage is mainly because of the weight. Since moss is usually wet or damp, it is very heavy in large amounts.

When trees have lots of wet moss on their delicate branches, those branches are usually more sensitive to wind and storm damage. This is a good thing to think about when you are controlling moss growth on trees. 

What Does Moss Growth On Oak Trees Indicate? 

Moss growth on trees can indicate a few things. Drawing on basic information, if moss is growing on your oak trees, you can assume your tree is commonly damp and somewhat in the shade. 

Along with moisture and light, moss growth on your oak tree can also show its current health. While moss growth does not harm your tree, it could be a sign that your oak tree has another deeper issue or has taken damage to its outside bark.

This is because when bark peels off of trees, it leaves the perfect area to promote moss growth. In most cases, peeling bark (at least in most oaks) can be a sign of damage or underlying issue, meaning moss is a great indicator of pre-existing tree health. 

Do I Need to Remove Moss From My Oak Trees? 

Due to the nature of moss growth, removing most mosses from your oak trees is purely up to preference. Some people think trees look great with moss and leave it on, while others see it as an eyesore, and remove it.

Since the moss does not harm the tree on its own, removing should be mostly up to how you like the look of it on your tree. 

Removing Moss From Oak Trees

Excessive moss growth on delicate branches can pose a risk for the branch breaking off due to stress. This means you may need to remove moss when it is on small branches to avoid tree damage and safety issues. 

How to Remove Moss From Oak Trees

While it may seem like an alien task, removing moss is simple. For most mosses that grow on oak trees, you can pull it off the bark gently, causing little to no damage to your trees. 

While moss technically makes ‘roots’, it mainly uses them for structural support, simply attaching gently to whatever they are sitting on. This means you can normally just grab the moss and pull it off.

Make sure to wear gloves and a long sleeved t-shirt when peeling off the moss! You can also use a light brush with some water to clean your oak tree’s bark to get rid of the residual moss.

Mosses vs. Lichens 

One important thing to note is the difference between mosses and lichens. Most times, people can quickly misidentify lichens for mosses.

Lichens are lighter on trees and can appear dryer and crusted closer to the surface of the bark. Lichens are a symbiotic relationship between fungus and algae.

On the other hand, moss is usually wetter in appearance, and has more of a 3D structure, coming a fair bit off of the tree. 

Dangers Of Misidentifying Moss And Lichens 

The primary danger of misidentifying moss and lichens comes along if you remove them. Moss is fairly easy to remove and causes little to no damage to your tree. Lichens, however, can do more damage than good. 

Removing lichens can mainly cause damage by ripping off layers of bark with them, leaving bits of the tree’s soft inner core open. Leaving large patches of open tree can leave your oak susceptible to damages such as pests and long term issues.

What Type Of Moss Is Growing On My Oak Tree?

So depending on your environment, there are a few different types of moss that will grow on your oak tree.

In general, three types of moss tend to grow on oak trees. These mosses include Spanish moss, ball moss, and common moss. 

While it may seem arbitrary to identify the type of moss growing on your tree, it can help with removal and control. Different mosses have different growth patterns and reproduction cycles. 

Spanish Moss

Spanish moss is a unique moss, often misidentified as a lichen or algae. In a way, Spanish moss almost looks akin to Halloween decorations, hanging off of trees rather than sticking to them closely. 

Spanish moss is usually a light greenish-white, hanging in festoons off of tree (such as oak) branches. Spanish moss is often associated with trees, such as oaks growing in the south (such as Texas, Arkansas, etc.)

If you’re noticing this is the type of moss you have, take a look at our guide on what to do if you have Spanish moss on your oak tree!

Ball Moss

Ball moss is one of the most easily identifiable mosses. Ball moss grows on the side of trees in the shape of little spheres, similar to sea urchins. During full growth, they can become the size of a tennis ball/softball, normally in a dark to light green color.

When the moss has reached maturity or is dried out (as it is commonly seen), it can appear brown or light tan, with almost sharp protrusions. 

Ball moss is a very common species of moss to see in the south. It is especially common to see growing on the sides and branches of trees in the oak.

You can read our full guide on what to do if you have ball moss on your oak tree here!

Common Moss

According to most sources, “common moss” is not a widely identified species. In reality, “common moss” refers to a group of mosses commonly seen across the globe (found in a variety of locations, in high populations). 

Common moss looks like the picturesque moss we often see in movies: in pillowy green blankets covering objects. This can be seen hugging tightly on the sides of oak trees or simply around their branches. 

Can You Put Moss On Your Oak Trees? 

In short, yes, you can put moss on your oak trees. Most mosses can easily transplant onto surfaces under the correct conditions.

The most common moss to transplant is Spanish moss, however, others can be transplanted as well. In addition, simply creating correct conditions for moss growth can also improve the chances of moss growing naturally.

Spanish moss is actually quite beautiful!

There are many ways to transplant or improve the chances of getting moss, so take any tips with a grain of salt, as outside factors such as climate and tree type can also impact moss growth. 

Best Conditions For Moss Growth

As mentioned, you need the correct conditions to get moss to grow. These required conditions include having a semi-shady location and having frequently moist surfaces for moss to grow off of.

You can create some of these conditions on your own if you want to have moss grow on specific trees. To create semi-shady areas, you can try planting trees, other larger shrubs, and plants, or try planting the tree you want moss on in an already shady location.

As for creating damp conditions, you can also somewhat achieve this by planting strategically. This means densely planting high humidity plants that retain moisture (so the area stays somewhat damp and humid). If this is too much for you, you could also experiment with hand watering or misting the tree frequently to keep it damp as well. 

Encouraging Growth 

Instead of physically putting moss on your tree, you could also create the correct conditions for it to grow. Doing so will increase the chances of nearby moss naturally throwing spores that successfully stick and grow on your tree. 

To get moss to grow naturally (without direct transplanting or propagating), your tree has to be near existing moss. This is because moss replicates by throwing spores that fly in the wind, meaning it can only replicate for a certain distance away. 

Direct Transplanting 

Direct transplanting is another method for putting moss on a specific tree in your yard. To directly transplant moss, you, of course, need a patch or colony of preexisting moss in a healthy state. It is important the moss you are moving is healthy. If it is sick, it could simply die, or even transmit something to your trees. 

Most people say to direct transplant, you can simply take the moss from one location, and move it to your desired tree. As long as the tree has the correct conditions, the moss should be able to regrow successfully on the tree and multiply.

Similar to planting moss for fish tanks, some people also recommend tying the moss to the tree with fishing line. This is especially helpful if you want your moss to be in positions where it can easily fall off of the tree because of gravity. 

Does Moss On Oak Trees Cause Bugs? 

To answer plainly, it depends. Bugs are usually attracted to moisture, soil, food sources, etc. This means healthy moss (which is usually damp or wet), can be attractive to certain insects. On the other hand, if you have more of a dry hanging moss (such as Spanish moss), the chance of insect infestation is significantly lowered. 

Moss On Trees

As mentioned, in most cases, having moss on trees will not attract too many (harmful) bugs. Destructive bugs, like termites, are not normally attracted to moss (just the tree itself). This means, in most cases, moss won’t attract bugs dangerous to the tree itself. 

While moss will not attract tree-harmful bugs, it is important to know what bugs moss attracts, and how those bugs can affect the rest of your yard. 

Negative Bugs Attracted To Moss

Moss can have the effect of attracting some bugs capable of yard damage. Some common bugs attracted to moss include springtails, thrips, aphids, spider mites, etc.

If your moss or oak tree are a part of a garden (with other vascular plants), the attraction of these bugs could be an issue. They can quickly and easily cause a lot of damage to regular plants you would find in the average home garden!

Conclusion:

In the end, moss growth can seem like a very confusing topic, especially when you introduce the idea of different mosses, and how their reproductive cycles change depending on what surfaces they are growing on. In most cases, moss will tend to (and often requires) frequently damp surfaces and medium-to-shady light conditions to grow. 

Moss is usually safe when growing on trees, so there is no need to worry about it causing damage or sucking nutrients from your oaks. It can be used as an easy indicator of tree health, and if you want to remove moss from your oak, it is a simple and easy process to complete!

There are a few different mosses that can grow on oak trees, and they all have their unique looks, reproductive cycles, benefits, etc. If you want moss to grow on a specific tree, there are ways for you to create the correct conditions for it to grow, or even for you to transplant it onto a specific tree. 

In the end, moss is a pretty interesting plant you can use to add a lot of character to your oak trees. With this, take some time to think about the moss growth in your garden, what it means, why it is caused, and what you personally want to do about it! 

References

Angeles, M. A. 600 E. P. A. P., & Us, W. 98362 P.-3. C. (n.d.). Mosses – Olympic National Park (U.S. National Park Service). Www.nps.gov.

MossBasicsText. (n.d.). Bryophytes.science.oregonstate.edu.

Physical control of moss on trees. (n.d.). Bryophytes.science.oregonstate.edu. Retrieved April 14, 2022.

Living in the Land of Mosses. (2016, May 24). Pacific Northwest Pest Management Handbooks.

Lichens | University of Maryland Extension. (n.d.). Extension.umd.edu.

I’m sure if you’ve ever done any yard work, you know just how much time and effort it takes. Well worry no more, we’ve got a guide on oak trees and an estimated pricing chart so you can see if you’d rather get that oak tree installed!

The cost of an oak tree install depends on the size and caliper of your tree, landscape, and amount of work required to install the tree. Large trees cost more, while small saplings cost significantly less. Install costs can run anywhere from a few hundred dollars to more than $3,000.

Below we’re going to discuss oak trees, picking the right oak for your yard, and we even have a pricing chart if you decide that you want an oak tree planted in your yard. Let’s dive in, hopefully, you’ll learn some helpful facts about oak trees along your tree journey!

What Factors Affect The Price Of An Oak Tree Install?

Certain things will affect the price of an oak tree install. Depending on your overall landscape, and the work required, an oak tree install could cost significantly more or less than the table we provided.

If your land is relatively clear, flat, and doesn’t require the removal of plants, roots, trees, or other obstructions, then your oak tree install could be on the lower-priced side.

On the other hand, if it requires a lot of work to remove other plants, roots, or other things, then you could be looking at a pricier install.

Most Common Oak Trees To Buy

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, oak trees are divided into two major groups: red oaks, and white oaks. White oaks’ acorns require one growing season to mature, while red oaks’ acorns require two growing seasons to mature.

If you’d like to learn more about specifics, take a look at our guide on the differences between white and red oaks here.

White Oak, Quercus alba

The white oak, also commonly referred to as the eastern white oak, is a popular shade tree. It is found in the eastern United States, west into Minnesota and south to Texas, and eastward. It is commonly used for furniture, flooring, and wine barrels. 

The white oak grows to 100 feet tall, and boasts the typical, characteristic oak tree shape, with a round, wide crown. It has light gray bark with shallow furrows. Its leaves are an oval, elliptical shape and have anywhere between 5-9 lobes and slightly rounded tips. If you’ve seen an oak, this shape leaf is probably the most notable. 

There are even methods to use to figure out how many leaves a full-grown oak tree has!

Its acorns are annual, taking just one year to mature. Aside from its name, the acorns and leaves will tell you that this is part of the white oaks: rounded lobed leaves, without bristles, and annual acorns.

This tree does well in well-draining loamy soils and dry upland habitats. This tree is also known to grow at elevations in the Appalachian Mountains.

If you’d like to grow a white oak tree on your own, check out this Oregon White Oak Seedling from the Jonsteen Company which has been grown from their nursery in California’s Redwood Coast without pesticides!

Swamp White Oak, Quercus bicolor

The swamp white oak is commonly found throughout the northeast to the Midwest United States. It is found as far west as Nebraska, down to North Carolina and up into Maine, and even Quebec. 

This tree is used for construction, cabinets, boats, fences, and even railroad ties.

The swamp white oak grows to 100 feet and has characteristic dark gray, deeply furrowed bark. Its leaves are elliptical, with 10-20 shallow lobes, and no bristles. Its scientific name refers to the dual color of the leaf, with a dark green, glossy covering of the pubescence underneath it, which is white and velvety.

The swamp white oak does well in poorly draining, mineral heavy soils.

Pin Oak, Quercus palustris

The pin oak, commonly known as swamp oak, Spanish oak, and water oak is found throughout the northeastern United States, from Vermont to North Carolina, and west to Oklahoma and Wisconsin. It is found in flood plains, and poorly draining soils, which makes it a no-brainer that it tolerates flooding and excessive moisture.

The pin oak is easily transplanted due to its shallow root system and is mainly used as an ornamental plant. 

It is a medium to large tree, growing anywhere from 50-130 feet. It has gray-brown bark with deep furrows. It is part of the red oaks with biennial acorns and pointed, lobed leaves with bristles at the pointed ends.

If you’d like to purchase a pin oak tree as they’re one of the fastest growing hardwoods, check out these 2ft tall Pin Oak Saplings from DAS Farms that you can plant on your own – they guarantee a successful transplant!

Northern Red Oak, Quercus rubra

The northern red oak is found throughout the eastern United States, north into Canada, and south into Georgia and even Louisiana. 

This oak is used exclusively in flooring and furniture and is considered the most valuable oak timber. 

The Northern Red Oak is one of the larger oak tree species that grows to 100 feet, with a vast rounded crown. You have probably seen this oak tree the most with its dark gray and almost black colored bark that has shallow furrows. 

Its acorns are biennial, making it part of the red oaks, which you could also tell by its pointed lobed leaves with bristles. 

It does well in a variety of soils, which is why it’s so commonly found. But it does best in loamy, sandy soils.

Southern Live Oak, Quercus virginiana

The southern live oak doesn’t really resemble an oak tree at all, besides the acorn and its bark. But, if you’ve ever seen trees down south, especially in Louisiana or Florida, then this is probably what you’ve seen!

It’s used for construction and shipbuilding due to its tough and dense wood.

The Southern Live Oak Tree grows to 80 feet tall and has a sprawling, beautiful crown and canopy. It has narrow, single-lobed leaves and characteristic dark brown bark.

Additionally, its acorns are annual, making this a white oak!

Maple Leaf Oak, Quercus acerifolia

Although this species isn’t common, we thought it was an awesome one to include!

The maple leaf oak is a fairly small oak tree within the Quercus genus. It grows to only 50 feet tall and has dark gray, almost black bark with shallow furrows or grooves. Its leaves are shaped similarly to maple leaves, hence its name, with bristled tips. Its acorns are biennial, meaning they require two growing seasons to mature, making this part of the red oaks. 

It is found only in west-central Arkansas, in only four counties in the Ouachita Mountains.

Sand Live Oak, Quercus geminata

The sand live oak is commonly found along the coast of Louisiana, up to the coast of North Carolina along the coastal plain, but is most abundant in Florida. Its distribution makes it easy to guess what soils it grows best in, which is sandy soils in pine stands. 

This oak is an evergreen shrub or medium-sized tree growing to 50 feet and even 95 feet. It has dark brown bark that takes on black color, and narrow, leafy, elliptical blade leaves. It also has annual acorns making this part of the white oaks!

Bur Oak, Quercus macrocarpa

The bur oak is a unique oak that extends south into Texas and further north than any other oak species into Saskatchewan, northern Canada. 

It is mostly found in the mid-western United States as far west and north as Montana. Due to its wide distribution, it can tolerate most soil conditions and is known for being one of the most drought-tolerant oaks. 

The bur oak is used for construction and flooring, like the white oak. 

The bur oak is a large oak tree that grows to 100 feet and has a huge, thick trunk with a broad canopy. It also has light gray bark with deep furrows making it resistant to fires! 

Its leaves are probably one of the most unique features of this oak, although it is narrow and elliptical, it has a large, rounded top, and 5-7 rounded lobes. Its annual acorns and bristle-lacking leaves make this part of the white oaks.

If you’d like to grow a bur oak, take a look at these Bur Oak Acorns From North Texas!

Northern Pin Oak, Quercus ellipsoidalis

The northern pin oak, commonly referred to as jack oak or black oak, is found throughout the mid to the eastern United States, from Ohio to Michigan and Missouri. 

This tree grows to roughly 65 feet with a narrow crown. Unlike the typical oak form we know, it can grow larger, but it’s rare. If it grows beyond its range, it begins to take on a shrubby growth.

The northern pin oak has anywhere between 5-7 pointed lobes with bristles on the end. If you know what’s coming next, then you’d be right! The acorns! Its acorns are biennial, making this part of the red oaks.

The northern pin oak does well in dry and sandy soils commonly found in the boreal forest. A cool thing about this oak is that it is commonly found among pines, hickories, aspens, and black cherry trees.

Estimated Pricing Chart For Oak Tree Install

That’s All For Today!

Well, that’s all we have for today on oak tree pricing! Let’s recap everything we discussed in this article!

The cost of an oak tree, along with the cost of installation, varies depending on a few factors: height, landscape, and caliper. Depending on the type and size of the oak tree, install costs can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to more than three thousand dollars.

Oak trees have lobed leaves and are separated into two groups. The red oaks group has lobed leaves that are slightly pointed and tiny bristles on the ends. White oaks, on the other hand, have rounded, lobed leaves without the tiny bristles on the end. 

But, the easiest way to tell an oak tree is to look for the acorns!

Thanks for sticking around and learning with us. We hope you revisit us along your tree journey, until next time! 

References 

Cienciala, E., J. Apltauer, Z. Exnerová, and F. Tatarinov. “Biomass functions applicable to oak trees grown in Central-European forestry.” Journal of Forest Science 54, no. 3 (2008): 109-120.

Epron, Daniel, and Erwin Dreyer. “Long‐term effects of drought on photosynthesis of adult oak trees [Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl. and Quercus robur L.] in a natural stand.” New Phytologist 125, no. 2 (1993): 381-389.

Granier, A., T. Anfodillo, M. Sabatti, Hervé Cochard, Erwin Dreyer, M. Tomasi, R. Valentini, and Nathalie Bréda. “Axial and radial water flow in the trunks of oak trees: a quantitative and qualitative analysis.” Tree physiology 14, no. 12 (1994): 1383-1396.

Vettraino, A. M., Barzanti, G. P., Bianco, M. C., Ragazzi, A., Capretti, P., Paoletti, E., … & Vannini, A. (2002). Occurrence of Phytophthora species in oak stands in Italy and their association with declining oak trees. Forest Pathology, 32(1), 19-28.