Facts About Oak Trees & Acorns

Mature oak trees produce acorns.

Oak trees are valuable to man and beast alike. Oak is an excellent fuel source for wood-burning heaters. Oak also provides many species of wildlife with a home.

Types

Hundreds of oak species are divided into the groups "white oak" and "red oak." White oak species are thought to produce better tasting acorns than red oaks. White oak tree species include bluff, chapman, chinkapin and post oaks. Red oak tree varieties include black, laurel, myrtle and shumard oaks.

Planting

Plant a seedling rather than an acorn, as many acorns never germinate. Dig a hole large enough to plant the oak seedling deep enough to cover the roots completely. The hole should also be big enough to allow the roots to spread out without bending. Leave at least 7 feet between trees.

Acorn Production

Oak trees reach maturity after about 20 years. This is the point at which they begin producing acorns. Acorn production usually slows when the oak is around 80 years of age. Both male and female oak trees are capable of producing acorns.

References

• University of Tennessee Extension: How Do Acorns Develop?
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Common Oaks of Florida
• North Central Regional Extension: Planting Oaks for Timber and Other Uses

Resources

• California Oak Mortality Task Force: Maintaining Oak Tree Health