Today we will be taking an up-close visit with the Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra). Oak trees according to literature cited from “The McGraw-Hill Textbook of Dendrology” are actually members of the Beech family (Fagaceae). Other familiar trees in this family include the American Beech, Chestnuts and Chinkapins. Literature from “The U.S. Forest service” mentions the rather wide diverse natural growing range for Northern Red Oaks; extending from the southern states of Alabama to Nova Scotia. Northern Red oaks are comfortable making their home within U.S.D.A hardiness zones 3 – 8 with best growth in acid soils ranging in Ph of 4 – 7. Northern Red Oaks need full sun and will most likely be found in the forest occupying the dominant or codominant layers of the forest canopy. Other common names of Red Oak are Eastern Red Oak, Mountain Red Oak, Gray Oak and Common Red Oak.
Northern Red Oaks generally reach a maximum height of 60 – 70 feet with a crown width of 50 -60 feet. The growth rate is considered fast (two feet per year in good conditions) drought tolerance is high and salt tolerance considered high. Many people enjoy the showy fall red color hence its common name Northern Red Oak. The Northern Red Oak is one of the most important Oaks for timber production in North America. Quality Red Oak is used for furniture, hardwood floors and veneer.
Contact your local Yacko and Sons Tree Service staff Forester for questions on all your tree care concerns. And remember Forester Jeff is always available to give your trees A FREE LOOK-UP FROM THE TRUNK-UP! jeff@yackoandsons.com or 203-733-9219
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