Product description
Quercus rubra, the Red Oak tree will create a glorious display in a large garden. It is known for its stunning, vibrant display of deep red leaves in autumn, outdoing many other trees in terms of size, boldness and a wow-factor.
Red Oaks are fast growing deciduous trees and display a lovely rich covering of large lobed, dark green leaves in the summer. After the leaves have fallen in the winter, the bark offers an intriguing smooth, grey-brown or dark grey colour, creating an eye-catching look in a bare garden. The spring catkins are a source of nectar for bees and once pollinated, become acorns which are popular with wildlife, such as squirrels and great fun for children to collect.
Plant your Red Oak tree in deep, well-drained and lime-free soil. It is fully hardy and will tolerate full sun or partial shade. The tree has an open, spreading habit and can reach heights of 15m and spreads of 5m. The deeply rounded crown offers a perfect nesting place for a variety of birds, bringing movement and sound into your garden.
This imposing tree offers all year round interest and will become a grand feature in a large garden. It is also ideal for open parks, public spaces and looks majestic lining a long and winding road or driveway. Oak trees are known to live for 100’s of years and are well embedded into English culture in folklore, traditions, art and poetry. Plant yours where it will see generations of your family enjoying time spent under its shady branches.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune your Quercus tree in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches and to maintain a strong structure. Avoid heavy pruning, as oak trees thrive with a natural growth form. Applying a balanced fertiliser in early spring can boost growth and help establish young trees. With proper care, your Quercus will become a majestic addition to your garden for generations.
How to Water
Water your Quercus tree deeply and regularly during its first year to encourage strong root establishment. Once established, oak trees are relatively drought-tolerant, but they will benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells, particularly in summer. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. For best results, water in the early morning or late evening to minimise evaporation and ensure the water reaches deep into the soil.
How to Plant
To plant a Quercus tree, choose a sunny or partially shaded location with well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the roots have plenty of room to spread. Position the tree so that the root collar sits at ground level, then backfill the hole with soil and firm it gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting and add a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and prevent weed growth, keeping it a few centimetres away from the trunk. Ensure the tree has enough space to grow, as oaks can reach significant sizes.