There’s a good reason why the oak tree is a total favorite among gardeners. If you’ve got enough room in your yard, adding one of these beauties is a game-changer. Between those iconic leaves, that rugged, timeless silhouette, and the deep shade they provide on a hot summer day, they’re hard to beat. Here’s everything you need to know about getting one in the ground.
Why You Might Want to Start Your Own
You can easily pick up a sapling at your local nursery or order one online. Just make sure to check the growth habits and specific traits of the variety you’re eyeing before you pull the trigger. That said, it’s actually pretty simple to grow your own oak from scratch. Starting acorns in a pot indoors comes with some great perks.
First off, by starting them in a warm room or a sunroom, you get a “greenhouse effect” that speeds up germination and helps the tree grow faster. Second, keeping them indoors protects those vulnerable acorns from hungry mice and other critters looking for a snack.
Picking the Perfect Spot
Before you start digging, you really need to find the right location. Keep in mind that once an oak reaches a certain size, it’s not exactly easy to move. You want to get it right the first time so it can stay there for the next century!
Here’s what a happy oak tree needs:
- Plenty of space and distance from other trees or your house
- Sunlight from all angles
- Well-draining soil with consistent moisture
While you want to meet these needs, the good news is that oaks aren’t incredibly picky. They just need room for their strong root systems and soil that lets water flow through while providing enough nutrients. They’re pretty flexible and will thrive in both acidic and alkaline soils.
How to Plant Your Oak
Start by placing your young tree in a bucket of water to give the roots a good soak. While it’s hydrating, prep the site by loosening up the soil. You can mix a little peat into the ground to help with the texture. Next, dig a hole that’s about twice as wide as the root ball.
Place your oak in the hole and backfill it with soil until the roots are completely covered. Gently tamp down the dirt with your foot to get rid of air pockets, and give it a generous watering. Finally, spread some bark mulch around the base of the trunk over the root area.
Mulch is a lifesaver—it helps the tree through the winter and acts like a slow-release feeder for water and nutrients. Just make sure to keep your young oak well-watered, especially during those first two weeks in its new home!
