Several species of oaks (Quercus spp.) make their home here in the Southern Appalachian region (USDA zones 6 and 7). Every 3 – 5 years, a majestic oak bears a heavy crop of acorns. Squirrels and gardeners gather acorns (seeds) to plant oaks for future generations.

Oaks are divided into two groups. White, swamp, and bur oaks, with rounded non-bristly lobed leaves, comprise the white oak group. From August thru December these acorns germinate within a few weeks after falling to the ground.

The black oak group includes red, pin, shingle and willow oaks. Leaves possess one or more pointed  bristled lobes. Acorns do not germinate until spring.

Acorn survival is low unless planted in the soil. Gather up freshly fallen ripe (brown) acorns. Dispose of all which are discolored, have tiny holes (from weevils), or are exceptionally small in size. 

Gather and sow acorns in the fall. Prepare a planting bed or nursery row and sow acorns 1 – 2 inches deep and 6 – 12 inches apart. After 18 – 24 months, transplant small tree seedlings to a wider 3 – 5 foot spacing to grow on for another 1 – 2 years.  Maintain weed free beds, and fertilize and irrigate for maximum growth.

While slow at the start, nurturing a young oak tree grows to be rewarding for you and future generations.