1. Oaks support hundreds of butterfly and moth species
Five hundred and thirty-four to be exact. An oak tree supports more moths and butterflies than any other native tree species, and more than non-native species. Why is this important? Because we need insects for our ecosystem to function properly.
2. Not all oaks take forever to grow!
Some will take a bit longer than others, but even small oaks will support a lot of insects. Pin Oak and Willow Oak are fast growing oaks. (Two foot or more a year.). Red oak is just a tad slower. White oak, a gorgeous tree, is worth the wait at about a foot or so a year.
3. Great fall color
Their fall colors range from bright to muted shades of yellow, red and bronze. Their image is almost synonymous with autumn here in the deciduous Mid-Atlantic area.
4. A tree for posterity
Many live 200 years or more. Plant an oak tree today for your grandchildren. As the old adage goes, the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is today.
5. Bird value
The insect life they support helps feed songbirds. Birds need energy for migration and breeding. Baby birds need food. With oak trees, there are enough insects to support birds and to keep our beneficial insect populations robust.
6. Shade
Oaks require sun to grow. But what happens underneath their canopies? SHADE for you!
7. An oak for almost every site
Pin and Swamp White tolerate moist soil. Swamp White can even tolerate occasional standing water. Scarlet, Chestnut, and White tolerate thin dry soil. Chinkapin and Bur are tolerant of alkaline soils.
8. Acorns
Acorns are relished by many animal species: deer, gray squirrels, red squirrels, chipmunks, wild turkeys, crows, flying squirrels, rabbits, opossums, blue jays, quail, raccoons, wood ducks—more than 100 U.S. vertebrate species eat acorns. Not to mention the artistic and visual interest these beautiful nuts provide.
9. Winter Interest
Some oaks retain their leaves through the winter, creating a lovely contrast to bare branches elsewhere. (Black, Pin, Shingle, and White Oaks). Others have deep furrowed bark to provide interest. (Bur, Chestnut, and Scarlet Oaks).
