Northern Red Oak
Scientific Name: Quercus Rubra
Height: 60-70 feet tall
Width: 45 ft wide
Growth Rate: 2 ft a year for 10 years
Seasons
The Red Oak is known for its red color in fall. Compared to other oaks, the Red Oak’s acorns mature earlier in the season. It takes 25 years for the acorns to be turned into acorns. In winter an immature Oak has light gray oak that is reflective and smooth. This tree can endure the cold very well.
Growing Tips
The Red Oak needs direct sunlight, around 6+ hours of sunlight a day. This tree does better with more moisture, but can survive dry weather once it is no longer a baby tree. The Red Oak tree grows for about 10 years until it reaches full size. The hole to plant this tree must be deep and wide enough to cover the roots but not high enough over the trunks. If the tree is planted too high or too low it will not survive. The soil must stay moist when you first plant the tree for 3 weeks. Keep watering. The best time to plant a Red Oak is summer or fall, it will die in a container over the winter season. Mulch is a good supplement, but not right against the trunk of the tree. The Red Oak grows best when planted in acidic, loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained and clay soil.
Fun Facts
Red Oaks are one of the fastest growing trees. Red Oak leaves have 7 to 11 waxy lobes. They made a good yard tree because they can tolerate pollution and does well in compact soil. Due to the tree's deep roots it does not lift up sidewalks or driveways.
Wildlife
If you are into supporting pollinators and wildlife this native tree is for you! Oak trees are considered one of the best native trees for pollinators and wildlife. Oak trees are host to over 500 species of moths and butterflies and countless birds eat their seeds. If you like nature this is the tree for you!
Additional Resources:
Northern Red Oak Tree on the Tree Guide at arborday.org