Pin Oak Seedlings

The majestic pin oak tree tolerates wet soil or drought conditions. Fast growing deciduous shade tree that is perfect for an ample open space where shade is desired, pin oaks are aptly named for the small, thin dead branches which stick out from the tree’s trunk. Growing shape of the leaf canopy starts out in a pyramid shape but then tends to become more oval as the tree matures. The tree develops a straight, thick trunk that grows all the way up to the crown, giving it an asymmetrical shape that is desirable for open horizons. Pin oaks are one of the few trees that will tolerate extreme soil conditions on both ends of the weather spectrum. The tree will thrive when planted in soils that are wet most of the time and this shade tree will thrive under drought conditions. Frequently planted in city-scapes and parking lots because of it’s adaptability and tolerance to pollution, compacted soil, poor drainage, and drought. This hardy species has few pests or disease problems, making it long-living shade tree. Little is required in the way of care for the pin oak. An application of balanced fertilizer in the early spring during the first few years of life will help promote slightly faster growth and deeper roots, but this will occur even without the addition of fertilizer. Pruning the lower branches while the tree is young may be needed, depending on the growing location. The smaller branches tend to droop, while not at all harmful to the tree, it makes walking or mowing under it difficult. The removal of lower limbs early in the tree’s life will keep the tree aesthetically pleasing and provide plenty of headroom under its massive canopy. Pin oaks produce thin glossy leaves that turn brilliant shades of russet and bronze in the fall. The tiny leaves decompose quickly, so they make great additions to the compost pile or can be used as-is for garden mulch. Pin oak trees are botanically known as Quercus palustris and often referred to as small leafed red oaks. The pin oak seedlings grew into a tree with pointed lobes on the green leaves and pointed lower limbs that will self-prune. The green leaves will turn bright shades of russet and bronze in the fall before falling from the tree. They are a fast-growing tree that has a symmetrical pyramid shape and changes to an oval as the tree matures. The tree does best in sunny spots and can reach 70 feet with a 40-foot spread. The lower branches of the tree can be trimmed when it is young if necessary as they may be droopy though it is not harmful to the tree and can be left on it. The pin oak seedlings do well when transplanted and grows in almost every zone. It is a hearty tree that will adapt to most soil conditions and weather conditions. This is a tree tolerant of drought, poor drainage and has few pest or disease problems. Pin oaks need little care or maintenance, though the first few years they will get more in-depth roots and have faster growth if fertilized though this will happen naturally in the right planting soil and sun.