Red Oak 2-2.5″
$279.99
Red Oak Care
Planting: Choose a sunny location with well-drained, slightly acidic soil; plant in early spring or fall, digging a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
Watering: Water deeply once a week during the first year, then during prolonged dry periods after establishment.
Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, keeping mulch a few inches away from the trunk.
Fertilizing: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, avoiding over-fertilization.
Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches, avoiding heavy pruning to prevent oak wilt disease.
Pest and Disease Management: Monitor for common pests such as oak leaf caterpillars and borers, and avoid pruning in late spring and summer to prevent oak wilt.
General Maintenance: Regularly check for signs of disease or stress, and maintain a grass-free area around the base to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
Description
The Red Oak Tree (Quercus rubra) is a majestic and resilient deciduous tree known for its striking foliage and robust stature. Renowned for its brilliant red leaves in the fall, this tree adds a vivid splash of color to any landscape, transforming with the seasons from lush green in the summer to fiery crimson in autumn. Growing up to 75 feet tall with a broad, rounded canopy, the Red Oak provides ample shade and is a favored choice for parks, gardens, and large estates. Its bark, dark gray and ridged, adds a textural contrast to the smooth, glossy leaves.
Apart from its visual appeal, the Red Oak is highly valued for its hard, strong wood, which is extensively used in furniture making and flooring. This tree thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soils and can adapt to various climates, making it a versatile addition to diverse environments. Its acorns, produced annually, are an important food source for wildlife, including birds and mammals. Easy to care for and resilient against harsh conditions, the Red Oak Tree is not only a beautiful ornamental choice but also a practical and sustainable option for enriching natural habitats.
