Red Oak Tree

Rapid growth and vibrant leaves that turn a beautiful burnished red in the fall are the defining characteristics of this timeless tree. Its speedy growth at up to 2 feet per year contributes to its impressively tall, classic form that will be a focal point for your yard for years to come. Extremely adaptable, this tree tolerates a wide variety of dry and sandy soils. This is a perfect multi-generational tree with a lifespan of up to 300 to 500 years. Enjoy making memories that grow with you under the boughs of the time-honored Red Oak Tree. 

This deciduous tree works well as a privacy screen from the road and any traffic that might come your way. Round in form, expect a mature height and width of 60 to 70 feet. Native to Northeast America, this tree is known for being resilient and robust; it is tolerant to pollution, compacted soil, salt, acidic soil, and clay. It also significantly contributes to any ecosystem, providing a home to dozens of pollinators. 

Red Oak Tree Care

Red oak trees stick around for a long time, so choose a planting site that would not be likely to get in the way of any foreseeable changes to the landscape or anything that might affect the planting site's future ability to accommodate a tree of this longevity and size. Avoid planting in close or cramped areas, utility lines, overhangs, or roofs. Red oak trees produce round acorns during September and October, about an inch long, with a flat, saucer-like cap. If planting this tree near a driveway or walkway, be aware that the acorns will fall on it and might require some cleanup.

Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil in an area with plenty of sun and room to grow. Cover the roots with a maximum of 1 inch of soil to give them access to air. While developing and establishing its root system, it will need water weekly. Measure the amount of water required by measuring the tree trunk's diameter. Give it 10 gallons of water per 1 inch of trunk diameter. Once established, only water during dry spells. This tree will most likely not need fertilizer other than occasional compost. 

Prune this tree during late winter or early spring, and no later than March 15, when there is a lessened risk of insect damage. Remove old and damaged branches at the base or the connection point to a healthy lateral branch. To prevent the spread of disease to other parts of the healthy tree, dip your pruners in a cleaning solution of 1 part bleach and ten parts water in between cuts. 

Red Oak Tree Spacing

Plant this tree with room to grow to its mature height and width of 60 to 70 feet.

Red Oak Tree Information