Oak trees are a keystone species, supporting more life forms than any other tree in North America. That’s why many environmentally conscious arborists recommend planting an oak tree. 

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Oaks provide sustenance for hundreds of insects, including soft-bodied caterpillars that provide protein for birds, especially those that migrate. Other animals forage the power-packed acorns. However, oaks can be messy with their large leathery leaves that are difficult to clean-up and resist decomposition in the compost pile. In heavy mast years the acorns can clog gutters, damage cars, and turn ankles on the slippery nuts. Also, in our neck of the woods, the pin, red, and black oaks are affected by bacterial leaf scorch, a disease that causes decline in health.

We recommend an oak that answers the complaints: willow oak, Quercus phellos. This reasonably fast-growing oak tree performs well in our area. The form is pyramidal when young, becoming rounded with age. Mature stature is approximately 80 feet tall by 60 feet wide or more. The willow-shaped, slender leaves are 4-6 inches long and narrow providing a dappled shade and a fine twiggy texture. They are a bright green, turning a golden-yellow in the fall. The small acorns, about a ½ inch in diameter, are forage for some birds, especially the jays. They may be too small for squirrels, but just the right size for chipmunks and mice. We have not observed any effects from bacterial leaf scorch, or any other maladies, although, willow oaks become chlorotic in alkaline soils. They remind me of pin oaks, without the problems.

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