Why everyone should be planting oak trees
Oaks are one of the most important species found in the Ozarks. This is the jack of all trades and master of… All? living in your landscape. When we think of what wildlife need we often think of herbaceous species, but the data shows the top Keystone Species in our area are in fact trees! “Native oaks are the most valuable tree for wildlife in 84 percent of the counties in the United States in which they occur,” - Doug Tallamy The Nature of Oaks
With approximately 436 documented caterpillar species using Oaks (Quercus spp.) as a host plant just in our specific ecoregion, and thousands estimated, Oaks are the most beneficial plants for wildlife a homeowner can add to their landscape. These caterpillars are the singular most important protein source for songbirds to successfully raise their offspring. Not only do caterpillars use this tree, but birds, squirrels, deer, and turkey, also heavily rely on Oaks!
Image Credit: Indiana Audobon - Cardinal
Oaks bring excellent wildlife value to the landscape, but also offer healthy branching structure (strong and well shaped), stunning fall color, and reliable shade. Making them a very reliable landscape plant.
Acorns aren’t just for wildlife either! Acorns have been consumed all over the world from indigenous cultures to today! Acorn flour, coffee (Racahout), bread, cookies, crackers, pasta, and even fermented drinks all historically incorporated acorns into the mix. Acorns are highly nutritious and offer a level of nutty, and sometimes caramel notes to your favorite dish. My favorite is Acorn Pancakes and Rachout!
Acorn & Peanut Butter Protein Pancakes
Oaks have also been a key resource to humans as timber. The first settlers to Missouri relied on Oak trees for fuel, shelter, and food. Later, as the industrial revolution hit in the 1880’s, oaks and other trees were heavily harvested and virtually the entire state of Missouri was clear-cut for harvest. Oaks provided the majority of the railroad ties as industry expanded. By 1920 most of the trees in the state were harvested and in came conservationists to help restore what we had destroyed. Today, people still see oaks as a resource for profit, but landowners usually work with a forester and develop a management plan instead of clearing an entire site.
Image Credit -Shiloh Museum of Ozarks History
If you are looking to maximize wildlife impact in your yard today, planting an Oak tree will be your best option. Do it yourself or reach out and we can get a tree selected and planted for you!
Find a Native Oak Near Me
I want to find and plant acorns myself
