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There are a lot of things to love about oak trees. They are tall, beautiful, and very hardy. They can even house hundreds of different species of birds, insects, and other critters. Unfortunately, oak trees can also house many harmful or destructive varieties of fungi. 

To prevent fungus from affecting your oak tree, apply mulch, prune your oak during the dormant season, and avoid any injury to the tree that exposes the inner layers. For active oak tree fungus, prune affected branches and apply fungicide.

Reading on further will give you the information to identify, treat, and prevent some of the most common fungi you may see on your oak tree. Some oak tree species are resistant to certain fungus, while others are very vulnerable.  

What Does Oak Tree Fungus Look Like? 

There are three different ways you can tell if there is a fungus on your tree. The most obvious is seeing mushrooms growing out of the tree or around its base. Fungi may also look like a dusting over the bark

Other signs of fungus invading your tree are unusual growth, discoloration, and wilting of the leaves. The bark may have cankers, scabs, or discoloration as well. 

If you notice any of these things, your best bet is to call in a professional. A professional arborist will be able to diagnose and treat the tree properly without all the guessing work on your part. 

Fungi is not the only issue your tree may encounter. To educate yourself on the most likely culprits, check out our article: What’s Wrong With My Oak Tree?

How Did My Oak Tree Get Fungus On It? 

Your oak tree has fungus on it for a variety of reasons. For starters, fungi is EVERYWHERE. There will always be fungus near your tree. It is a part of the ecosystem.  

Fungal spores travel to your tree by wind, rain, improperly cleaned tools, and animal and human movement. Fungus can attach to the bottom of your shoes and travel all over your yard and oak trees as you walk around. The possibilities for spreading fungi are endless.  

So instead of wondering how to prevent fungus from coming near your oak tree, since that is impossible, your best bet is to keep the oak tree’s “immune system” as healthy as possible.

Next up is a list of some of the most common types of fungus and what to do about it if your oak tree has it. 

Types Of Oak Tree Fungus And How To Prevent And Remove Them

There are a variety of fungi that affect oak trees that mimic each other. This means it is very important to identify which type it is before treating it because there are different treatments for different fungus.

I’ve written some information for you below about the species, identification, ways to cure oak fungus (when possible), and ways to prevent fungus from coming back. You will be more prepared once you are done reading! 

Oak Anthracnose  

Oak anthracnose, or apiognomonia errabunda, is known as a type of leaf spot or leaf blight disease. They love the cool and wet weather of spring.

The effects of the fungus look awful, but luckily the damage never fully eliminates the tree. However, repeated attacks by this fungus will leave your tree vulnerable to other problems. 

The fungus begins on the leaves and is dormant during the winter months. Once it warms up a little, the spores release and travel to other leaves.

The fungus will then produce more spores and spread to other leaves until the weather heats up and becomes dry. This will usually slow down or stop the fungus.

Light rain will also increase the spread of the fungus by carrying spores through the droplets that splash up when they hit the ground.  

According to the University of Minnesota, you can tell if your oak tree has this fungus through the leaves. The leaf veins will become brown or black and look like they have been scorched. 

You will see the leaves of the lower branches of the tree become discolored first. Then it will spread upwards. Young leaves may be distorted or fall off depending on the severity of the anthracnose.

Anthracnose spreading among oak trees is just one of the ways oak trees can cause damage.

How Do I Fix Anthracnose On My Oak Tree?

To stop the fungus from spreading to other parts of the tree, you should properly prune off the affected branches or twigs. Fungicide is not necessary unless it is a long-term probelm. It will do nothing once the leaves have become discolored. 

You can prevent oak anthracnose from coming back next year by raking up all the leaves from your yard. The fungus will live and produce spores on the fallen leaves if they are still there come spring. 

Artist’s Conk 

Ganoderma applanatum or artist’s conk is a decaying fungus affecting any size oak that rots the heartwood of the tree. The heartwood is the most inner part of the tree trunk. As it decays the lowest part of the trunk, the tree becomes a hazard for falling over or being uprooted. 

You will know your tree has this fungus if the leaves are yellow, wilted, or smaller than usual. You will also see the mushroom, or conk, grow around tree limbs, the base of the tree, and any exposed roots. The conks grow in shelves that are brown with white or gray edges. 

Unfortunately, if you see these mushrooms or cankers appear on your tree, then the death of the tree is coming in 3-5 years. There is no way to cure artist’s conk. The best thing to do is to remove the tree, its roots, and the soil from the area.  

How Do I Prevent Artist’s Conk On My Oak Tree? 

You can prevent artist’s conk or Ganoderma root rot from making your oak tree its home in three ways:

• Maintain the amount of water your tree gets
• Line the tree with mulch
• Use soil care products to improve the health of the tree will all help protect your tree

Avoid injuring the oak tree as the wound will leave it vulnerable to the fungus. 

Armillaria Root Rot  

Armillaria root rot is also known as shoestring root rot, mushroom root rot, or toadstool. Armillaria mellea loves wet summers and moist soil and grows quickly when plants are over-watered. 

It is parasitic to other plants as well, including lilac and daffodils. It spreads and damages oak trees by the roots. The fungus reaches across to affect neighboring roots. Once it touches the root, it decays the wood and destroys the oak bark by dissolving it. 

The first sign of armillaria root rot is when the shoots are stunted, oak leaves become discolored, and an unusual number of leaves fall. Honey-colored mushrooms pop up around the base of the tree during late summer and fall. 

If the tree’s root system has been taken over by armillaria fungus, then you should remove the oak tree and its stump immediately, or else you will spread it to other plants. 

How Do I Prevent Armillaria Root Rot On My Oak Tree? 

To prevent this from taking over your oak trees and landscape, you should first make sure you are not over-watering them. Check your oak trees often for signs of ailments. 

Do not plant one of the host plants in your yard either. You create a breeding ground for the fungus to grow and spread that way. 

Fungi will grow easier on stressed-out trees. Reduce oak tree stress by mulching around the tree (only 2-3 inches high), taking care not to wound the tree with lawn tools, avoiding over-watering, and pruning in the dormant season. This is the best way to keep this fungus at bay! 

Check out our piece Best Time To Trim Oak Trees + Trimming Calendar And Tips to learn more about proper pruning! It is a very important step to keeping your tree healthy.

Sudden Oak Death 

This type of fungus is known as Phytophthora ramorum formed by a water mold. It is known for the mass damage it has caused to oaks along the West coast.  

It even affects other plants like rhododendron and around one hundred other species. According to the Ohio State University, it was introduced to the country through rhododendrons sold in retail stores. Crazy! 

Any plant hosting this oak tree fungus planted six feet or less from an oak tree may be affected. There is not a lot of evidence explaining how the fungus spreads, but scientists guess it is spread through rain, wind, and humans or animals as they travel through forests. 

If you have white oaks, have no fear! Only red and intermediate oaks can be affected by this fungus. 

How Do I Know My Oak Tree Has Sudden Oak Death? 

It is a little difficult to identify sudden oak death because it mimics a lot of other oak tree afflictions.

You should keep an eye out for trunk cankers, which look like red-brown or black wounds oozing red or amber sap. You will see these cankers anywhere from 4 to 6 feet above the soil line. 

Some other signs of sudden oak death are leaf loss over time or sudden browning and falling of leaves. It can take 2 years or less for the oak to perish.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for sudden oak death. You can use a fungicide to lighten the symptoms, but it will just delay the inevitable.  

If you think your tree has this, call a local arborist as soon as possible to diagnose and prevent spread.  

What Do I Do If My Oak Tree Has Sudden Oak Death? 

If your tree has sudden oak death, you can either delay it from happening or remove the tree altogether. 

If you are delaying it and want to enjoy your oak longer, immediately prune any affected branches. Spray the cankers and other affected areas with fungicide. 

When you prune, sanitize the pruning tools you used with bleach to prevent the spread.

I recommend using the Reliant Systemic Fungicide (Agri-Fos/Garden Phos) on your tree to extend its life because it has phosphonate, which is very effective against this specific fungus. Some experts suggest using a fungicide injection to put into the trunk. 

You should also put mulch around the tree (2 to 3 inches high) and fertilize it. Do not let the area get too wet, there should be good drainage. 

However, the best choice for dealing with an affected tree is to cut it down. Eventually, it will become a falling risk.  

Then, check the plants in the area for symptoms. Spray the phosphonate fungicide around host plants and trees, but only if the affliction is present already. Paying attention to your oak is key to stopping the spread of the fungus to other trees.

Oak Leaf Blister  

Oak leaf blister, also known as taphrina caerulescens, commonly affects many oak tree species. Red oaks are notorious for this fungus! You’ll see oak leaf blister in the spring during cool, wet weather.  

Oak leaf blister spreads by wind and rain onto buds and twigs of the tree. It will lay dormant in the winter and grow when the spring hits and new leaves have sprouted.  

You will notice this fungus on the leaves of oak trees in early summer as raised greenish-yellow spots on the top and gray depressions underneath. The leaf will then turn red or brow

Luckily, this fungus does not full eliminate injured oak trees. Instead, it deforms the appearance of the oak tree with discolored leaves. 

How Do I Prevent Oak Leaf Blister On My Oak Tree? 

Preventing oak leaf blister is quite easy. Apply a pesticide to the buds of the tree in early spring and it will keep it at bay. Fungicides do not work on this affliction if you use it after the buds have broken open.

Only use this method if you are dealing with a small tree. I strongly recommend hiring a professional if you are applying pesticide to a large tree. It is a very laborious and dangerous job, so consider your safety when deciding how to treat your tree. 

Oak Wilt 

Oak wilt, scientifically known as ceratocystis fagacearum, is a oak tree fungal affliction that was discovered in red oak trees 77 years ago and affects trees in over twenty states. It can affect every species of oak tree, but white oaks are more resistant to oak wilt than red oaks. 

The fungus spreads through the roots of the oak tree and by sap beetles that feed on it. 

Wilted, dull green, or brown oak leaves are the first sign of oak wilt, which is similar to drought-affected trees. Every color of leaves will have fallen at the tips of the branches. In some oaks, you will see brown streaks underneath the bark. 

Once affected, red oak trees can parish as little as weeks later, while white oaks can last one to a few years after the fungus. 

The most important thing you should do to stop oak wilt in its tracks is remove the affected tree from your yard. Do this before the beetles or roots can spread it to other trees. 

How Do I Prevent Oak Wilt On My Oak Tree? 

The most effective way to prevent oak wilt is to avoid pruning the tree once the spring temperatures reach 50 degrees. Sap beetles become active when it gets warm and fungi create fruiting structures, so the oak affliction spreads quickly when it is warmer. 

Once you wound the tree by pruning, paint over the exposed areas with tree-wound paint so the beetles can’t get to the sap as easily. 

Finishing Up 

You can do a lot of the steps above on your own, but the best option for inspecting, treating, and preventing fungi from invading your oak trees is to call a professional. They will take out any hassle or confusion when figuring out what is wrong with your tree. 

Make sure your yard is free of fallen leaves and branches and affected, tree stumps. Many fungi will survive year after year if left unchecked, so follow the tips above to keep the annoying fungus from invading your oak trees.

If you’re interested, take a look at our guide: 10 Early Symptoms of a Dying Oak Tree: Prevention Guide to learn more about saving your oak tree!

Go forth and good luck! 

References 

Ambourn, Angie K., Jennifer Juzwik, and Roger D. Moon. “Seasonal dispersal of the oak wilt fungus by Colopterus truncatus and Carpophilus sayi in Minnesota.” Plant Disease 89.10 (2005): 1067-1076. 

Koetter, Rebecca, and Michelle Grabowski. “Anthracnose of Shade Trees.” Lawn and Garden, UMN Extension, 2018. 

Frankel, Susan J. “Sudden oak death and Phytophthora ramorum in the USA: a management challenge.” Australasian Plant Pathology 37.1 (2008): 19-25.

Popenoe, Juanita, et al. “Key Plant, Key Pests: Oak (Quercus spp.): ENH1332/EP596, 12/2020.” EDIS 2020.6 (2020). 

Smith. “Rhododendron Plants, Walmart, Rural King and Sudden Oak Death!” Fairfield County Master Gardeners, The Ohio State University, 18 July 2019. 

Southworth, Darlene. “Oaks and mycorrhizal fungi.” Oak: Ecology, types and management (2013): 207-218. 

As you are probably very aware, trees are a pretty common plant around the globe, no matter your location. Save for the arctic circle and the driest of deserts, you are likely to find trees somewhere in your proximity.

Trees grow at very different rates, which is to be expected. However, trees like the Eastern Hemlock, Canadian white cedar, Don Egolf Redbud, Bur Oak, Japanese Maple, Purple Lily Magnolia, and Serbian Spruce are among the slowest growing. These trees have slow yearly growth rates between 10″-24″.

To discover more about these trees and how you can affect their growth time, continue reading!

Do Slow-Growing Trees Live Longer?

There is a great deal of research on this subject, much of which deals with specific intricacies and nuances of how tree growth differs across species.

Research has shown examples of this in practice.

One situation shows slower radial growth rates of a tree correlates to the tree living much longer than another species who may grow much faster but will almost certainly live for less time. 

Does that make sense? 

If not, think of it like this:

The trunk of an eastern hemlock tree gets wider rather slowly, which is the radial growth rate. This tree is a good example of a tree that fills out pretty slowly while living for quite a long time. 

In fact, its lifespan can get up to 800 years and this tree does not even reach maturity until it has lived for nearly 300 years. 

Talk about slow-growing and long-living!!

An eastern white pine, however, has a trunk that fills out much more quickly. Unfortunately, as follows, this tree has a shorter overall lifespan.

Different Types Of Tree Growth

As explained by the University of Tennessee Extension, tree growth occurs in two different ways. 

“What are these different ways?” you may ask. Let’s dive in!

Primary Tree Growth 

When growth happens in a way that makes the tree larger and taller, it is primary growth. This sort of primary growth manifests as increasing height and length and occurs in small areas individually. 

This growth stems from as deep down as the roots of the tree and high up as the shoot tips. 

So- primary growth means what? Increased height and length of the tree and its branches!

Secondary Tree Growth

Secondary growth is when growth increases the thickness of the stems and branches of a tree. 

Among the stems and branches, roots also increase in diameter as a result of secondary growth.

Secondary growth means… Increased thickness in the tree and its various appendages!

Now that we have a better understanding of what growth even looks like in trees, let’s get to the important part. 

What are some trees we can use as an example of this newfound understanding of tree growth?

8 Most Common Slowest Growing Trees

Alright, it’s here! The moment you have been oh so patiently waiting for: some of the slowest growing trees.

Here are eight of the slowest growing trees out there, their growth rate, and some other information that might come in handy if you have any of these species. 

Tree Type	Yearly Growth Rate
Eastern Hemlock	12-24”
Canadian White Cedar	13-24”
Don Egolf Redbud	12”-16”
Bur Oak	Less than 12”
Japanese Maple	12”-24”
Purple Lily Magnolia	6”-12”
Chinkapin Oak	10”-24”
Serbian Spruce	12”

Like anything, there may be some variability here. Some individual trees may grow a little faster, or even a little slower. Maybe a tree not on this list is growing just as slow, even though it is not technically a ‘slow-growing tree.’

What we will discuss here regarding the yearly growth rate of each tree is the primary growth, mainly focusing on the increase in the tree’s height. 

That being said, let’s finally turn the spotlight on the trees.

Eastern Hemlock Tree

The Eastern Hemlock is a great first tree to discuss. If you remember, it was such a wonderful example that we already discussed it above. 

It deserves a little more attention than we gave it, though, so let’s talk about the Eastern Hemlock, shall we?

The USDA’s Forest Service informs us that an Eastern Hemlock tree measuring 193 cm (76 in) in d.b.h. and 53.3 m (175 ft) tall is among the largest recorded. Imagine that – one of the slowest growing trees getting to be one of the tallest! 

Maybe there’s some merit to that old saying, “slow and steady wins the race,” after all. 

If you recall from above, this tree can sometimes take between 250 and 300 years just to reach maturity. If a few hundred years put a tree at the start of its adult life, just imagine how slow yet fortuitous this species is. 

Eastern Hemlocks can live up to 800 years on average, with a record age recorded as 988 years… which is pretty darn old!

Eastern Hemlock Tree Growth Rate

The growth rate of these slow yet steady trees is pretty unbelievable in and of itself. 

It can take an Eastern hemlock 100 years to get to 2.5 cm in d.b.h, or diameter at breast height. This common measurement of a tree might take other, faster-growing trees (like sugar maple, for example) about 10 years to reach that point. 

So, the Eastern Hemlock is about 10 times slower in its growth than many average North American trees.

The average growth rate in height per year does not exceed 12 to 24 inches. 

Canadian White Cedar Tree

This evergreen tree is in no rush to shoot into the sky. 

The Canadian White Cedar is a softwood tree and a very adaptable one at that!

Its wide root system allows for this cedar to grow in places that other trees may not find as hospitable, like rocky areas or other difficult spaces. 

The Canadian White Cedar grows in places other trees like maple and oak cannot, which goes to show it has merit.

If you have ever heard of ‘arborvitae,’ it’s the same tree! Funnily enough, arborvitae means ‘tree of life’ and that is very reminiscent of the adaptability and survival instincts of this species. 

Canadian White Cedar trees can live up to 700 years on average, not quite beating out the Eastern Hemlock but certainly giving it a run for its money.

Canadian White Cedar Tree Growth Rate

The average growth rate of the Canadian White Cedar is 13 to 24 inches per year if conditions are good.

There is a Canadian White Cedar that is 4 inches tall, but over 100 years old. Just another reminder individual growth rates and factors play a huge part in what we hear about certain species. 

Maybe you’d heard of that tree and figured the species must be the slowest growing. While it grows at a slow-moderate speed, it is important to do research into the entire species.

Don Egolf Redbud Tree

A tree suited for warmer climates, the Don Egolf Redbud tree (also known as the Chinese redbud) is both compact and beautiful. 

Its vibrant pink flowers are closely clustered and bloom into an unmistakable show of color in the spring months. 

Some might even mistake this tree for a bush because of its short height, even at full maturity. 

The Don Egolf Redbud tree goes against the commonly held statement that slower-growing trees live for longer. With a lifespan of only 50-70 years, this redbud species is pretty short-lived. 

Unfortunately, this species is also pretty susceptible to diseases, which can significantly decrease the lifespan even more.

Don Egolf Redbud Tree Growth Rate

It takes this tree 15 years to reach its initial mature height of about 10 ft tall. This means the Don Egolf Redbud grows between 12 to 16 inches per year.

Not the slowest rate out there, but certainly not the fastest, either.

You could always purchase this tree as a more mature plant in order to get the beauty of the redbud in bloom without the hardship of bringing the plant up from a sapling.

Bur Oak Tree

The bur oak is rather adaptable, even a magnificent tree to fit into an urban setting with a lack of other green space to utilize.

Wildlife love the acorns, and so do some people who know how to use them properly!

If you are interested in learning more, check out our piece on 4 Reasons Why Squirrels Eat Acorns (& Their Favorite Type).

Now, as we talk about slow-growing trees, this one is giving all the others a serious run for their money. 

With a lifespan of 200-300 years minimum, this oak tree has plenty of time to make its mark. When your life is that long, there is no need to rush!

Bur Oak Tree Growth Rate

The bur oak grows at an extremely slow rate of less than a foot per year. Though it grows at a slow rate, its lifespan also allows it to reach up to a soaring 80 feet tall. 

Yes, you read that right- the bur oak grows so slowly that it might be lucky to hit 12” of growth in a year.

It’s all about balance, right?

Japanese Maple Tree

There are so many variations of the Japanese Maple, almost all of which are very slow-growing.

The reddish-purple leaves add yet another spectacular pop of color during the spring and summer months.

The mature height of a Japanese Maple tree is about 30 feet tall, which can be reached in about 12 years, give or take.

With the Japanese red maple, since there are so many variants of the species, it is hard to nail down exactly how long it will take. The important thing to know is this is a slow-growing species overall.

Although these trees are very beautiful, be warned they make some of the most helicopter seeds! If you want to learn more about these trees and others similar to it, check out 4 Maple Trees That Produce The Most Helicopter Seeds.

Japanese Maple Tree Growth Rate

The Japanese Maple’s growth rate spans from less than a foot per year to just at the two feet mark. 

That’s right – another tree whose yearly growth has the potential to be less than 12”. With a yearly maximum growth of 24”, we can likely assume a Japanese Maple tree will grow around 16” per year.

Purple Lily Magnolia

Similar to the Don Egolf Redbud, this tree adds a great level of color to any space. 

As another tree you might mistake for a bush. You could easily prune a Purple Lily Magnolia and maintain a certain shape or style. One more benefit of slow growth is the nature of this tree is pretty well set up for styling. 

Whether you are looking for a pretty shape in a sculpture garden or a well-manicured pop of color in your front yard, the Purple Lily Magnolia could be the tree for you.

Again, not the longest-lasting of trees, but this is certainly worth its ability to keep a shape.

The Purple Lily Magnolia tree should last around 100 years, so a few new generations will also benefit from your decision to plant a purple lily magnolia.

Purple Lily Magnolia Tree Growth Rate

Getting to a mature height of 10 feet takes the Purple Lily Magnolia 10-15 years, so it grows between 6 to 12 inches yearly.

Chinkapin Oak Tree

This tree is wonderful for wide-open spaces like large properties, parks, and even to add something to the empty lot around a business in need of some sprucing up.

A species that needs around 6 hours (at least) of direct sunlight a day, the Chinkapin Oak tree is most definitely well-suited for sunny regions.

Use the tree as a shade tree on a hot day, while allowing it to have everything that it needs to flourish. 

All critters will love this tree for the acorns it produces, but you can even use those acorns yourself.

​​You can take a look at our guide on 9 Amazing Fallen Acorn Uses here.

Really, this tree is good for so many purposes. Its slow growth only allows it to fully develop its assets for use by humans, animals, and more!

The Chinkapin Oak lives for well over 100 years on average.

Chinkapin Oak Tree Growth Rate

The Chinkapin Oak tree grows anywhere between 10 to 24 inches yearly, so you can expect this to be a pretty slow-growing addition to your backyard. 

Trees like this are pretty cool if they are planted when kids are little. They will get to grow up alongside the tree. Comparing growth between little humans and little trees will make this slow-growing species seem like it is just shooting into the air!

Already have this species on your property? Great! It’ll stick around for quite some time. 

Serbian Spruce Tree

Similar to the Japanese Maple, the Serbian Spruce tree grows slow, though this species lacks the variants that the Japanese maple so proudly boasts. 

Serbian Spruce trees are fantastic for backyards and other residential spaces, areas not quite urban but also in need of a bit of sprucing up. Just remember, when a tree grows, so do its roots. 

For this reason, planting a Serbian spruce in an area too compact could lead to property damage (even if that just means a sidewalk) a few years down the road.

Living around 60 years, it’s hard to imagine, but the Serbian Spruce tree gets up to 30-35 feet tall in some cases. 

While the growth rate of a Serbian Spruce ranges from less than a foot to just over two feet yearly, it is most common to see this species grow at the slow end of the spectrum.

Serbian Spruce Tree Growth Rate

This one is pretty simple because the standard growth rate of the Serbian Spruce is 12” per year.

Now, after learning about these trees, a foot does not seem so crazy anymore, right?

How To Help Trees Grow Faster

While all the trees we discussed here today have genetics to thank for their slow growth rates, there is always something you can do to support your tree, at the very least. 

While any of the following methods will not make your bur oak suddenly grow 2.5 feet per year, or your purple lily magnolia miraculously get taller, they will certainly promote healthy growth.

It all begins at the roots, and early in a tree’s lifespan. Next, you will want to maintain your tree throughout its life by trimming if needed, adding fertilizer to the soil, and making sure your tree has plenty of water to sustain it.

Do all of those things seem pretty basic to you? Great- you are probably already well on your way to growing a strong, healthy tree- no matter the species. 

If this is news to you, or you want to brush up on your general knowledge of tree maintenance- follow along for a little while longer

It never hurts to refresh your knowledge!

Water Your Tree Frequently To Promote Growth

One of the most important things when taking care of any plant is making sure it has enough water. Most trees should be able to obtain and retain the proper amount of water, but this is not always a case. 

Say, for example, the area you live in is facing a drought. You do not want to waste water, but in order to keep your tree from completely dying, try to add a little extra water.

You could also try something like the Greenscapes Tree Watering Bags. They hold up to 20 gallons of water and slowly release the liquid over 6 to 8 hours. This allows your tree to get proper hydration without wasting any extra!

Perhaps a better example is you notice the soil around your tree becoming dry, though nothing is particularly amiss in your environment. Take a moment and water your tree!

Heat of the summer? Water your tree!

Trees are adaptable and can survive many environmental hardships, but if you have the power to help them out along their journey- why not take it?

A happy tree is a healthy tree, and your yard will look all the better for it. 

Give your summer visitors a chance to comment on how well groomed your purple lily magnolia or how deep the green of your oak’s leaves are. (You can thank us for the reminder later!)

Fertilize The Soil To Aid Tree Growth

If you are a regular reader, you will be familiar with us talking about soil and fertilizer oh so often. Like, all the time. 

The simple truth of it is fertilizer is one of the most beneficial resources you can provide a plant with. 

Say it with us though… fertilizer is not plant food.

Fertilizer is… what?

When used with soil and water, fertilizer acts as a way to help plants use all aspects of the nutrients they are already receiving, while getting some supplementation to those main nutrient sources. 

In the same vein, trees need some vitamins and nutrients in their systems, too. 

Giving a tree that extra boost helps it focus on growing tall, wide, strong, and healthy above all else!

If you have an oak tree, check out our guide: How to Fertilize Your Oak Tree (7 Simple Tips)

That’s A Wrap!

Well, we hope this wasn’t as slow of a read as the growth of those trees.

For what it’s worth, if you’re looking for a fast-growing tree and stumbled here instead, you will know what not to look for as you begin your search. 

If you were here for this exact reason – to see which trees glow slow but live long, or which species may be more manageable to craft and shape, we hope this helps!

Remember, not every individual tree is going to be the same. One Japanese Maple may have a very wide truck while another is taller and thinner. 

Maybe your Don Egolf Redbud gets a little taller than expected, or not quite tall enough. 

Each tree is unique, and while it helps to know what to expect, part of the process is getting to learn as you grow.

Thanks for spending some time with us, and good luck as you continue along your own tree journey!

Conversely, if you’d like to check out some of the fastest growing oak trees, take a look at our article: 12 Fastest Growing Oak Trees: Growth Chart!

References

Bryan A. Black, Jim J. Colbert, Neil Pederson “Relationships between radial growth rates and 

lifespan within North American tree species,” Ecoscience, 15(3), 349-357, (1 September 2008) 

Coomes, D. A., & Allen, R. B. (2007). Effects of size, competition and altitude on tree growth. Journal of Ecology, 95(5), 1084-1097.

Red oak, white oak, which oak? Oak trees may all seem the same, but there are differences between them that are worth knowing of. Their growth rate, maximum size, bark and leaf color, and adaptability are some things to consider when planting an oak. 

In truth, white oak trees have grey bark that tends to be divided into small, vertical blocks on the tree, while red oak trees have dark red/grey/brown bark with a scaly texture. White oaks live up to 600 years and grow 18in annually, while red oaks live up to 500 years and grow 24in annually.

Truthfully, oak trees are quite durable, they are beautiful, and they can grow to last incredibly long. When it comes down to it, personal preference is a big player in choosing a tree, and we want to give you the right keys to do so.

What is the Lifespan of a Red Oak vs. White Oak?

There’s no question that red and white oaks have significant differences, but what exactly does that mean? Why does it matter?

For one, the lifespan of these two species can say a lot about longevity, their prime, and what to expect from each species.

White oaks as individual plants live for around five hundred to six hundred years. 

Lake Forest College research shows that red oaks, while similar in lifespan, do have a timeline that is cut a bit shorter than that of their white oak counterparts. Red oaks live about three hundred to five hundred years. 

So, we can see that the lower end of the typical lifespan of a white oak corresponds to the higher end of that of the red oak species. 

While let’s face it, that many hundreds of years are still almost longer than we may be able to comprehend, there is a good deal of variety within what that looks like between red and white oaks.

If you’re interested in learning how long oak trees live, you can view our guide and data of the full lifespan for each common oak tree here.

How Quickly Does An Oak Tree Grow?

Okay, now let’s talk about annual growth. White oaks grow incredibly slow at a rate of about 12 to 24 inches per year, which is relatively slow in relation to other trees of a similar caliber. 

Red oaks are pretty similar in this regard. Thanks to research from the Nebraska Forest Service, we see that red oak trees grow at a rate of about 18 to 24 inches per year. On average, this happens just a little more quickly than the typical white oak.

Physical Characteristics of Red & White Oak Trees

One of the most identifiable traits of difference between white oak trees and red oak trees is, naturally, their physical traits. Most commonly, this includes their various bark, leaf, and color differences.

If you’re interested, you can read our guide with the pros and cons of the best oak trees to plant here.

Bark Color

Bark color provides the most noticeable difference between red and white oak trees and is KEY to identifying the difference between each.

Red Oak Tree Bark Color

When trees are still young and trunks are thin, the bark is a smooth light grey. The winter sun causes this light color to be quite reflective, and the bark is surprisingly smooth before age has a chance to change its design. This can sometimes be seen on large branches of a mature tree. 

The bark of a red oak tree has a dark color that can only be described as red/grey/brown and has a scaly texture with thin, rounded ridges. Twigs end in a cluster of buds, and the red oak ends in reddish-brown twigs that display light-colored buds. 

As the bark ages, ridges develop and leave the trunk a mix of shiny grey with dark fissures coming through. On old trees, the bark deepens further to be a dark brown shade. In very aged trees, the very bottom portion of the trunk sports fissures that are deeper and ridges that are no longer the flat, even texture of a middle-aged tree. In old trees, there is a more pronounced texture and darker colors that range from dark grey to black. 

White Oak Tree Bark Color

The bark of a white oak tree is grey and tends to be divided into small, vertical blocks thanks to shallow fissures that run the length of the trunk. These thin, irregular flakes vary from light to a deeper, more ashen grey color.

Twigs are grey to purple in color, with buds that have blunt points. This is a bit unlike those of the red oak, which are a bit softer with more muted edges and coloring. 

Leaf Shape and Color

Below, we’re going to break down the leaf shape and color for red oak trees and the major differences for each. If you’re interested in learning the difference between oak and maple trees overall, you can read our piece on the major leaf and bark differences of oak and maple trees here.

Red Oak Tree Leaf Characteristics

These moderately shiny leaves have a wide variety of colors throughout the seasons; in the summer, they range from light to deep, dark green, and then shift to gold or crimson as the summer creeps on.

The leaf of a red oak tree is smooth, almost shiny. As deciduous trees, they have some irregular bristle-tipped teeth. They, on average, are about 4 to 10 inches long and 3 to 6 inches wide.

In the fall months, the leaves of a red oak continue to deepen to either a vibrant orange or an even deeper crimson. In the fall, these leaves can be bright red, maroon, crimson, golden-yellow, yellow-brown, or a mix of color even darker but just as stunning.

White Oak Tree Leaf Characteristics

White oaks have leaves that range from 5 to 9 inches long, while their width is smaller at 2 to 4 inches. Instead of more jagged, bristled points, they have blunt-ended ones that vary in size and shape based on the location and other trees around. 

The leaves are pretty thick and may not fall from the tree throughout the winter months, unlike those of the red oak. They will fall off eventually but do tend to last longer and provide a very picturesque contrast of bright white against a deep reddish-brown color.

Best Oak Tree Hardiness Zone

Do you ever find yourself wondering what exactly the best growing zone for an oak tree is? Have you wondered if that differs between red and white oaks? Well, we are certainly glad that you’ve kept reading this far because this one’s for you!

First, what on earth is a hardiness zone? 

The USDA defines different hardiness zones across the country, which can be found on a map here. Oak trees fall into the lower number range, which means that they are hardier trees. Okay… and?

Well, this means that these trees can do well in lower temperatures. 

The way that the USDA hardiness zones work is that each zone represents a range of 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The zones are then divided into letters A and B. They break down the 10-degree temperature range in half, the lower 5 degrees of the range and the higher. 

For example, zone 5 represents minimum temperatures in the range of -10 to -20 F. SO, subzone 5a would be referring to temperatures of -10 to -15 F, and subzone 5b refers to -15 to -20 F.

Does that make sense? If you aren’t quite there, we get it. This is a lot of letters and numbers to think about. So, we are going to explain a little more. 

A hardiness zone deals with the information on what types of plants can survive certain climate conditions, including the ability to survive in a given minimum temperature range. Queue our hardiness, or growing, zones! 

Hardiness is a measure of how well a plant will survive cold temperatures; the USDA zones cover the basics of these temperatures and predictions but, like most systems, cannot account for every factor. 

Precipitation, elevation, and freeze dates are some things that get overlooked in this system. It is, however, the standard, and so, therefore, we are explaining in those terms.

Now, does that make more sense? Let’s talk about what hardiness zones our oak trees fall into. Spoiler alert, this is one of the biggest similarities between these two species.

Also, if you’re thinking about planting an oak tree in your backyard, refer to the hardiness guide and check out our piece on planting oak trees in your backyard. 

Best Red Oak Tree Hardiness Zone

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources tells us that red oak trees thrive in partial to full sun and can be found in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 7. Generally, temperatures from 10 to -30 Fahrenheit are going to be survivable when it comes to red oak.

Red oak trees generally can survive up to USDA hardiness zone 8. Red oak trees can live anywhere from 300-500 years and can reach a full height of up to 140ft. Annually, red oak trees can grow up to 24in per year.

White Oak Tree Hardiness Zone

Now, here’s some interesting info for white oak trees.

White oaks range from zone 3b to zone 9b. Generally, varieties of white oak trees can survive in temperatures as low as 30 to -40 Fahrenheit. White oak trees can live anywhere from 500-600 years, grow up to 18in annually, and reach a full height of 80ft.

The reason for this range that we see for both types of oak is that some varieties of white oak may be a bit less hardy than others. Additionally, there are many factors to consider when looking at these zones. Temperature is not the only extenuating circumstance that could cause issues with a tree. 

Oak Tree Adaptability

Red and white oak trees are quite adaptable, but what kind of soil do they like, and where do they grow best? Well, let’s get to it!

Red Oak Tree Soil Preference

Red oaks can thrive in any soil. It doesn’t get much more adaptable than that, does it? 

Red oak trees prefer moist, deep soil that is rich and slightly acidic, but it can easily adapt to dry soils with neutral or even slightly alkaline pH.

White Oak Tree Soil Preference

One type of soil that white oaks do not thrive in is that which is shallow, too compact, or overused. 

White oak trees grow their very best in areas that have moist yet well-drained soils. However, like red oaks, they are adaptable to more adverse conditions thanks to their deep root system that allows them to tolerate drought as they mature. 

This species thrives in areas with slightly acidic, deep, rich soil where the sunlight beams and the water is not too abundant. 

How Tall Do Red and White Oak Trees Grow? 

Red and white oak trees can get pretty dang tall! Below, we’ve outlined a bit of a scenario for you regarding the natural growth of these oak trees.

Red Oak Tree 10 Year Height

At 10 years, the red oak tree is starting to get taller, so much so that it has now outgrown the people who planted it.

After 10 years, red oak trees are still quite young, but the trunk is getting a bit wider, and the height begins to make it look like a substantial tree. Red oak trees will be 15 to 20 feet tall at 10 years after first being planted.

White Oak Tree 10 Year Height

The white oak begins its first portion of life a bit more gently; following the red oak closely, a white oak tree will be 10 to 15 feet tall after 10 years of growth. Still taller than any person, it has not quite matured to the thickness or texture of a mature tree.

Red Oak Tree 25 Year Height

After 25 years, the red oak tree doubles and triples its size and will grow 35 to 40 feet tall. After 25 years, red oak trees will stand above a typical 2-story home and tower over people, younger trees, and most suburban architecture.

White Oak Tree 25 Year Height

At 25 years after being planted, a white oak tree will reach about 30 to 40 feet tall. At this point in its lifespan, the white oak tree is now a close competitor in the height category to the red oak.

Red Oak Tree 50 Year Height

50 years after the red oak tree was planted, it is about the height of a 4-story building, reaching 55 to 65 feet tall. 

White Oak Tree 50 Year Height

Did someone say a 4-story building after 50 years? Try a 5-story since the white oak is now generally taller for its age at 50 to 75 feet tall.

What is The Peak Height of an Oak Tree?

Overall, both red and oak trees have remarkable heights once fully grown. Here’s a peek at their full height below.

Red Oak Tree Peak Height

White oaks may have surpassed the red ones at the three 50 year mark, but let’s not forget that there are a ton of varieties of this species, and the northern red oak is one of them.

In many forests, red oak trees grow straight and tall, reaching a peak height of anywhere from 90 feet to an incredible 140 ft tall, while the trunk’s diameter reaches around 2 to 3 feet.

White Oak Tree Peak Height

The peak height of white oak can vary between the types of trees that fall under this title.

White oak trees often mature to something between 50 and 80 feet tall but are they are capable of growing upwards of 100 feet tall. 80 to 100 feet is a common range when we get to the ‘highest’ range of mature growth in this tree. In the individuals that grow to about 100 feet, the diameter of the trunk is going to be about 3 to 4 feet. 

These get HUGE.

That’s a Wrap!

Now that we know a little more about the major types of oak trees, how they grow, where they thrive, and what they can be expected to become in a few centuries, it’s clear that there is a lot to know about oaks.

Red and white oaks are similar trees but, at the end of the day, there are many differences that shape their identities as individual species. 

Keep in mind that white oaks tend to live a little longer, so if you’re worried about your descendants reaping the benefits of a specific tree you’ve planted, this might be the one for you. 

Red oaks, however, grow a little faster at 18-24 inches per year and can thrive in any type of soil. Now that is a combination of speed and adaptability that we can support.

Really, the choice is yours. What shade of bark or height do you want? What is a better option for your environment? The questions may be endless, but we hope this provides you with a good reference of what tree might just be the one for you.

Thanks for reading! Now, go plant a tree!!

References

Cook, E. R. (1985). A time series analysis approach to tree ring standardization (dendrochronology, forestry, dendroclimatology, autoregressive process). The University of Arizona.

LeBlanc, D. C., & Terrell, M. A. (2011). Comparison of growth–climate relationships between northern red oak and white oak across eastern North America. Canadian Journal of Forest Research, 41(10), 1936-1947.

Dougherty, P. M., Teskey, R. O., Phelps, J. E., & Hinckley, T. M. (1979). Net photosynthesis and early growth trends of a dominant white oak (Quercus alba L.). Plant Physiology, 64(6), 930-935.

Tardif, J. C., & Conciatori, F. (2006). Influence of climate on tree rings and vessel features in red oak and white oak growing near their northern distribution limit, southwestern Quebec, Canada. Canadian Journal of Forest Research, 36(9), 2317-2330.

Lightning striking your oak tree can be a rather interesting experience. When it happens and lightning actually does strike your oak tree, there are a few reasons why, and several things you can do in order to save your oak tree.

Oak trees are taller than most trees and are more likely to get struck by lightning due to their height. If your oak is struck by lightning, you will need to water, fertilize, and trim dead branches off the tree. Lightning damage on your oak tree will split the tree and cause burnt, black marks.

Stick around and we will answer all your pressing questions, including how to care for an oak tree that has been struck!

Can An Oak Tree Survive A Lightning Strike?

In short, yes, it is possible. An oak tree can survive a lightning strike, though it is going to take some time and care to get the tree back to healthy standing.

It is possible that your oak tree may not survive the level of damage caused by a direct lightning strike. It all depends on factors such as the intensity of the strike, the height of the tree, and how the lightning impacts the tree itself.

So, while oak trees can survive a lightning strike, it is not always a sure bet that they will. 

​​For that reason, we are also going to help you learn some best practices to follow as you work to maintain your oak tree’s vitality after a lightning strike. There are things you can do, from preparing and learning about lightning to understanding maintenance practices following a lightning strike. 

To understand an oak tree’s reaction to being struck by lightning, it is important to first understand what lightning is. 

Just Why Does Lightning Strike Oak Trees?

Essentially, lightning is a discharge of electricity. Such electricity also happens to be the cause of the thunder we also associate with thunderstorms. Oak trees are conductors of lightning because they offer a tall location close to the clouds and are full of moisture and sap that are better at conducting energy than the air and shorter plants nearby.

According to the UCAR Center for Science Education, just one stroke of lightning can heat the air nearby up to around 54,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

So, when this discharge of electricity, which is extremely hot, contacts a conductor such as an oak tree, it causes quite the commotion. Understandably so!

Not only does this lightning strike cause damage to the oak tree, but there is also a very audible reaction that occurs, which we are going to explain next.

What Does It Sound Like When Lightning Hits An Oak Tree?

The extreme temperatures generated by a bolt of lightning (let us not forget it is fifty-four thousand degrees Fahrenheit in the air), creates the sound that accompanies a lightning strike connecting with a oak tree, which is quite fierce.

The sound, explained by the Library of Congress to be a giant shock wave, sounds much like an extremely loud bolt.

The heat of the air causes the air itself to expand faster than the speed of sound, which results in hearing thunder very close to you, hence the loud noise that comes with lightning striking a nearby oak tree.

When lightning and thunder are close together, you know a storm is close. As the time increases between seeing a bolt of lightning and hearing a clap of thunder, the lightning is getting further away from you because the sound is taking longer to travel.

How Can You Tell If Lighting Struck A Oak Tree?

Sometimes, it is not even apparent your oak tree has been struck by lightning until it rapidly declines.

In this situation, the electric current of the lightning would have run through the inside of the oak tree, using the sap and internal moisture as a conductor. Internal damage caused by a lightning strike may not be noticeable on immediate inspection, but causes severe damage to the oak tree itself.

Lightning damage may also be seen in a range of forms, when visible from the outside. Lightning scars, which are black, singed-looking streaks down the oak tree, and loss of bark are two mild signs of this phenomenon.

Other external signs might be much more immediately noticeable, like the oak tree’s bark may be stripped off. Due to the way lightning strikes usually hit, this appears as spiral-shaped peels.

The North Carolina Cooperative Extension even details that a tree struck by lightning might burst into flames and explode. So, there is every level of damage possible- from internal and severe to external and less damaging to external and very severe.

Now that you know what to look for to see if your oak tree may have been (or was) struck by lightning, let’s talk about the odds of this happening.

What Are the Chances Of An Oak Tree Getting Struck by Lightning?

While trees, namely oaks, are common targets of lightning strikes, there is not much available research about how often exactly this occurs. 

With about 100 lightning strikes hitting earth each second, your oak tree could be a conductor of lightning one of these days.

A piece from the University of Georgia proves it is difficult to pin down an exact probability, but that a tree’s topographic location, height, and relative proximity to other structures all play a large role in assessing the risk of it getting struck.

It is not as common for oak trees to die from a lightning strike, so keep it in mind as you consider this. Your tree has a chance of getting struck, but there are many potential outcomes.

What To Do When Lightning Strikes Your Oak Tree

It’s all well and good to know about what is involved in preparing for a natural catastrophe like this, from checking your insurance to knowing what to look for when you suspect your oak tree has been struck, but the after is also crucial.

If your oak tree has been struck by lightning, there are many steps you can take to ensure that, when possible, the oak tree recovers and can thrive once again. Trees, especially oaks, are resilient and adaptable. It is important to learn how to help them as they learn to rely on themselves again.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to help your tree as long as it is not damaged beyond repair. Helping with the upkeep that it would usually take care of by itself is going to be one of the biggest factors when working to support your tree’s life force regeneration.

Make Sure Your Oak Tree Gets Enough Water

One of the biggest detriments to an oak tree being able to begin its self-healing process is when the tree does not have enough water. Lightning striking the tree works to pull some of the moisture content from the tree itself, both in its roots and the sap that runs through the tree.

Some of the biggest damages to an oak tree comes in the form of losing liquid. This also happens to be one of the biggest reasons the tree is struck by lightning in the first place. 

As we have mentioned, oak trees are great conductors of lightning because of their height in relation to both the ground below them and to other structures such as buildings, cars, and people. 

The other reason is oak trees are such a great conductor of this electric current, and it all has to do with the same sap and water that are pulled from the oak tree during the strike. The moisture of these things draws lightning to the tree because it offers a path of least resistance. 

So, watch out for the water your oak tree is getting as it works to heal. Its biggest life force attracted the destruction in the first place, so your tree deserves all the rehydration it can get!

In addition to water, it’s very important that your oak tree gets proper sunlight as well.

Add Fertilizer To Your Oak Tree

If you are not sure what else to do as you attempt to keep your oak tree alive, add fertilizer into the mix.

Using fertilizer, along with the water you should already give your oak extra of, will help give your oak tree the nutrients needed to see fresh growth and revitalization. 

While the sap and moisture were stripped from the oak tree, so were other important nutrients.

Along with this, lightning strikes zap the energy out of a oak tree, which makes healing and eventual new growth a challenging feat when the tree is left alone to undertake it. 

Fertilizer offers very important nutrients that help the oak tree rebuild energy to continue its journey back to being a solid, viable organism.

This Miracle-Gro Garden Soil for Trees and Shrubs will help you stimulate your tree as you work to get it to the next spring and hope to see new growth. Not only is this product highly affordable, so you don’t have to stress about a struggling tree and costs, but it is also fortified with important minerals like phosphorus and iron.

To learn more about using fertilizer for your oak tree, check out our article: 3 Best Oak Tree Fertilizers (and How to Use Them).

Trim Dead Branches Off Your Oak Tree

Help your oak tree, both literally and figuratively, lose the dead weight by trimming any dead or dying branches. This is best done in the winter months because it is going to help catalyze new, healthy growth the oak tree desperately needs to remain viable. 

Most oak trees struck by lightning just need to make it to the next spring. Though it is not 100% guaranteed, any trees able to survive a lightning strike and then survive well enough to bloom new buds will make it in the long run.

You can also regularly trim your oak tree to stimulate growth and take care of any dead branches at any time, whether or not your tree is healing. By practicing this healthy maintenance, you take some stress off of your oak tree and allow it to flourish!

You’ll want to trim your oak trees sooner than later after a lightning strike, but it’s always best to trim oak trees during the winter or early spring. You can learn more about best oak trimming practices in our article: Best Time To Trim Oak Trees + Trimming Calendar And Tips.

Monitor Your Oak Tree

Along with the common tactics you will follow to ensure your oak tree can get back on the right track, just checking in is an important aspect of the road to recovery. 

By regularly observing your oak tree, you will have an idea of its progress, whether it is improving (we hope!) or declining (an unfortunate possibility).

Keep in mind not every tree is salvageable after a lightning strike. Do not blame yourself if your oak tree looks healthier and then slips back into decline. Such is the nature of… well, nature.

Most oak trees live to be 100-150 years old, so adding these tips can help that process, especially when the tree is struck by lightning. To learn more about specific types of oak tree general lifespan, read our article: How Long Do Live Oak Trees Live? Lifespan for All Common Types.

Wrapping It Up!

Now that we’ve learned a little more about what lightning is, how it can affect an oak tree, signs lightning struck your tree, and how to save it, all that’s left is to hope this does not happen to your tree.

If lightning has struck your oak tree, remember to evaluate the status of your tree’s wellbeing, give it extra water and fertilizer, and trim any dead branches as it embarks on its process of recovery.

When an oak tree is struck by lightning, it might die. This is always a possibility, but not nearly as probable as one might expect. If you take care of your oak tree following the strike, there is a good chance it will return to at least a version of its healthy self. 

Caring for an oak tree after a lightning strike takes work, but it will be clear to see whether your tree appears to be improving. If you do not see any improvement, it may be time to consider removal. If improvement continues, there is an increased chance your tree will make a recovery.

We hope this has helped you understand why lightning is attracted to trees, why and how it can be so detrimental, and what to look for if you think your tree has been targeted by this event.

If your oak tree has or may have been struck by lightning, remember to take the steps:

• Help the oak tree rehydrate as much as possible
• Fertilize the soil around your oak tree to stimulate regrowth 
• Trim any dead branches to allow the oak tree’s energy to be focused on growing new buds
• Check your oak tree once in a while to see how its progress is going

For now, thank you for reading!

References

Defandorf, F. M. (1955). A tree from the viewpoint of lightning. Journal of the Washington Academy of Sciences, 45(11), 333-339.

Gora, E. M., Bitzer, P. M., Burchfield, J. C., Schnitzer, S. A., & Yanoviak, S. P. (2017). Effects of lightning on trees: A predictive model based on in situ electrical resistivity. Ecology and Evolution, 7(20), 8523-8534.

Taylor, A. R. (1965). Diameter of lightning as indicated by tree scars. Journal of Geophysical Research, 70(22), 5693-5694

Today we’re talking about the best time to trim oak trees. Did you know trimming oak trees at certain times can be detrimental to your tree?

Oak trees respond best to trimming in the winter and early spring. Dates between October 1st and April 1st will usually provide optimal oak tree trimming conditions. This is because the tree, and potentially damaging fungi, are dormant, making your oak tree less susceptible to damage and disease.

Read on to learn about the best time and season to trim your oak trees. Did you know that there’s an optimal time to trim your oak trees? We’ve got you covered with a trimming calendar and the best zones for growing oak trees.

Here are our tips on general oak tree tips and the best time to trim oak trees.

The Best Time To Trim Oak Trees

Oak trees are commonly found throughout the world in temperate regions and even some tropical regions. Oaks belong to the genus Quercus, which consists of 400 species and are both deciduous and evergreen.

Oaks contain tannic acid, which helps in protection from fungal diseases and insect infestations. Although oak trees contain tannic acid, they are susceptible to a variety of diseases caused by both fungus and insects.

Oak trees are extremely susceptible to a handful of diseases, including sudden oak death and oak wilt. Both of which kill oak trees quickly. To avoid this, trim oak trees when the trees are dormant. 

If you are looking for a new tree trimmer, the Greenworks 40V 8-inch Cordless Pole Saw is a fantastic option! It has a 20-inch steel blade and an automatic oiler for peak efficiency!

The best time to trim oak trees is in the winter and early spring, preferably after October 1st and before April 1st. When your oak tree is dormant, the tree is not actively growing. Pruning trees during this time will limit and prevent the spread of fungal and insect infestations. 

Similarly, during winter, fungi and insects are dormant, so it is significantly less likely to spread diseases during this time..

Common Oak Tree Diseases That Happen From Trimming

You would think tannic acid would prevent oak trees from getting most diseases, or at least protect them. However, this is not the case. 

Some of the most significant and fatal diseases to oak trees include sudden oak death, Phytophthora ramorum, and oak wilt, Bretziella fagacearum. Both sudden oak death and oak wilt are diseases caused by mold and fungus, despite tannic acid being present. 

Sudden oak death, Phytophthora ramorum, is a water mold, or an oomycete, meaning it produces a motile zoospore. Motile zoospores can move towards and away from certain chemicals, i.e. food source chemicals, specifically in plant material. 

According to the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, reports of sudden oak death began in 1995, and it is considered an invasive exotic species. Sudden oak death was first detected in San Francisco, California, and in Oregon, both of which have the exact climate this pathogen thrives in. 

This oak tree ailment can also affect over 75 different plant species, contributing to its spread. P. ramorum spreads through rain, contaminated irrigation or plants, and even contaminated soil. It creates calluses, also known as cankers, on the bark seeping black and red. 

Oak wilt, Bretziella fagacearum, is a fungal disease that rapidly kills thousands of oak trees every year. Unfortunately, oak wilt spreads to newly pruned trees in spring and summer. Fungal spores spread by attaching themselves to insects such as beetles that bore into the wood, and through firewood transportation by humans. 

Oak wilt can also be spread long distances via airborne spores and shorter distances via root systems beneath the ground. Oak wilt is a vascular wilt disease that prevents water from getting to the rest of the tree. 

As if this wasn’t bad enough, the fungus can overwinter on dead tissues on trees appearing in spring and summer, killing the tree within two months. 

Symptoms of oak will consist of exactly what the name states, wilting. Leaves may wilt and become discolored, resulting in defoliation, i.e., sudden leaf drop. There is currently no treatment for this disease, but arborists are working to conserve oak trees and limit the spread of this disease.

To learn more about all the common oak tree ailments, read our guide: What’s Wrong With My Oak Tree? 10 Most Common Oak Diseases.

Oak Tree Trimming Calendar By Name And Hardiness Zone

Tree Name	Best Time To Trim	Best Growing Zone
White oak, Quercus alba	Winter/Early Spring	3-9
Willow oak, Quercus phellos	Winter/Early Spring	5-9
Swamp white oak, Quercus bicolor	Winter/Early Spring	3-8
Northern pin oak, Quercus ellipsoidalis	Winter/Early Spring	4-7
Scarlet oak, Quercus coccinea	Winter/Early Spring	4-9
Bur oak, Quercus macrocarpa	Winter/Early Spring	3-8
Swamp chestnut oak, Quercus michauxii	Winter/Early Spring	5-9
Pin oak, Quercus palustris	Winter/Early Spring	4-8
English oak, Quercus robur	Winter/Early Spring	5-8
Red oak, Quercus rubra	Winter/Early Spring	4-8

Species Of Trimmable Oak Trees And Where They Grow

White Oak Tree, Quercus alba

The white oak is a deciduous oak found in zones 3-9 and is native along the east coast of the United States, found as far north as Maine and south to Florida, and as far west as Minnesota and Texas.

We typically use white oak trees for timber and flooring. This oak species grows from 50 to 80 feet tall and even as tall as 100 feet!

You can learn more about white oak trees in our article: 32 Incredible Facts About White Oak Trees.

Willow Oak Tree, Quercus phellos

The willow oak is also a deciduous oak found in zones 5-9. This oak tolerates poorly draining acidic soils, and covers from East Coast to Midwestern United States. The willow oak typically grows anywhere from 40 to 75 feet, along the bank of swamps, streams, or canals.

Swamp White Oak Tree, Quercus bicolor

Swamp white oak trees are deciduous oak trees found throughout zones 3-8. It needs acidic wet soil but is also drought tolerant. 

Swamp white oak trees also grow at a slow to average rate and are native as far north as Southern Canada to the Midwestern United States. The swamp white oak gets as large as 50 to 60 feet and grows along the banks of swamps, lowlands, floodplains, lakes, and valleys.

Northern Pin Oak Tree, Quercus ellipsoidalis

The northern pin oak is a low-maintenance oak tree found in zones 4-7. This oak reaches a height of 50 to 70 feet and is drought tolerant, growing well in acidic and well-draining soils. 

This oak is a medium-sized deciduous oak with elliptical green leaves. This oak species lives from Canada to the Midwestern United States in sandy upland woods.

Scarlet Oak Tree, Quercus coccinea

The scarlet oak grows in zones 4-9 within the eastern part of the United States and is native to Missouri. It tolerates drought conditions and black walnuts and grows to 70 feet tall. 

Bur Oak Tree, Quercus macrocarpa

Bur oaks are native to Missouri and grow in zones 3-8. Although it prefers moist loamy soils, it can also withstand a variety of soil conditions. 

Bur oak trees grow in stream valleys like the Ozark in Missouri and bottomland soils.. This species of oak grows to a height of 60 to 80 feet tall and gets its name from the ring of mossy burrs found around the acorn.

Swamp Chestnut Tree, Quercus michauxii

Swamp chestnut oaks grow mainly in the southeast of the United States, and zones 5-9. This species is native to swampy areas, floodplains, and lowland wooded areas. 

Swamp chestnut oak trees reach heights of 40 to 60 feet and were traditionally used as a timber tree in the 1800s. The people of this time used it in flooring, wagons and tools, as well as baskets.

Pin Oak Tree, Quercus palustris

The pin oak is a medium-sized deciduous tree that grows in zones 4-8. It grows well in medium to wet acidic loamy soil, but can also tolerate poorly draining soils. 

However, pin oaks do not do well in alkaline soils. Pin oak trees grow anywhere from 50-70 feet and thrive in the lowlands of the Midwest. Some people commonly use pin oak trees as landscape trees and along streets.

English Oak Tree, Quercus robur

According to Nazareth College Plant Biology, English oaks are native to Western Asia and Europe, but were introduced to North America in the 1600s and came to use as timber in England. These trees grow anywhere from 40 to 70 feet and grow easily in a variety of soils, typically growing best in zones 5-8.

Red Oak Tree, Quercus rubra

The red oak, also called the northern red oak, is a deciduous oak tree found in zones 4-8 and is native to Missouri. This species of oak tolerates drought conditions, black walnuts, as well as air pollution. This is a fast-growing oak tree that reaches a height of 50 to 75 feet tall.

You can learn more about the red oak tree in our piece: 29 Incredible Facts About Red Oak Trees

Hardiness Zones Where Oak Trees Grow

You will find oak trees throughout North America and grow in almost every zone. They are most common in temperate regions like the United States, but also grow in Mexico, Asia, Europe, and even Africa.

According to the University of Idaho College of Natural Resources, various oak tree varieties grow throughout zones 2-9. With over 400 oak tree species, you can find oak trees in almost every environment. Oak trees thrive in a variety of soils from acidic to alkaline and from clayey to sandy.

In these hardiness zones, there are specific varieties that can grow in sub ranges of the parent range described above which we’ll discuss below! While trimming in these zones is best during the winter/early spring season, you can learn more about the best time to plant oak trees in our article: The Best Time to Plant an Oak Tree (And How to Do it)

Common Uses Of Full Grown Oak Trees

Oak trees are famous for their incredibly sturdy and long-lasting wood. For more commercial goods like fence posts, cabinets and floors, we use red oak. White oak is a durable wood that is used in furniture, to make barrels, canoes, and fence posts. Oak is great for construction and woodcarving because of its durability. 

Oak flooring comes from red and white oaks and is the most common wood flooring that allures people with its tight-knit grain you can stain in an array of colors. Oak flooring is probably the most wide-known use of oak that gives a timeless look to homes.

Some oak species have also been used in natural pharmaceuticals because of their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties from tannins found naturally in oak bark.

Historically, Native Americans used parts of the red oak and white oak to treat ailments and wounds. The oak tree is also sacred and used in ceremonies in certain Native American cultures. 

Acorns have been used to create flour, soups, and other types of foods. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat hemorrhoids, diarrhea, ulcers, and wounds. Today, you can find oak bark sold over the counter as powders, teas, and liquid extracts.

Learn more about the uses of oak trees and what types are best for firewood here!

Best Time To Trim Oak Trees: In Conclusion

That’s all we have for today on the best time to trim oak trees, oak trimming calendar, and tips. If you have ever walked down a street with trees, gone for a hike, or hung out in a backyard, it’s a safe bet that you’ve seen an oak tree! Oak trees are widely beneficial to the ecosystem and provide us with a variety of things that are part of our everyday life.

To recap, here are the best times to trim oak trees, and a quick list of some tips: 

• The best time to trim or prune oak trees is in the winter when insects, fungus, and trees are dormant
• Oak trees are susceptible to devastating diseases like sudden oak death and oak wilt
• Oak trees grow in zones 2-9 throughout the world
• Oak trees can tolerate a variety of soils and environments
• We covered only 10 species of oak trees, but there are over 400 species of oak trees.
• We use oak trees for timber, construction, hardwood flooring, cabinets, and furniture. Traditional medicine and Native American cultures also find oak trees useful.

There you have it. Oak trees are incredibly durable yet simultaneously susceptible to rapidly spreading fungal diseases. They make up our deciduous forests and provide us with timber we use to build homes, furniture, and flooring. Next time you think about pruning your oak tree, refer to this article and keep in mind to only trim it in the winter!

If you’re finding that your oak tree has been affected by early trimming, read our guide: 10 Early Symptoms of a Dying Oak Tree: Prevention Guide

References:

Juice, S. M., Templer, P. H., Phillips, N. G., Ellison, A. M., & Pelini, S. L. (2016). Ecosystem warming increases sap flow rates of northern red oak trees. Ecosphere, 7(3), e01221.

Rose, Anita K., Cathryn H. Greenberg, and Todd M. Fearer. “Acorn production prediction models for five common oak species of the eastern United States.” The Journal of Wildlife Management 76.4 (2012): 750-758.

Taib, Mehdi et al. “Medicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacological Activities of Quercus Species.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM vol. 2020 1920683. 31 Jul. 2020, doi:10.1155/2020/1920683

Vettraino, A. M., et al. “Occurrence of Phytophthora species in oak stands in Italy and their association with declining oak trees.” Forest Pathology 32.1 (2002): 19-28.