Northern Red Oak Tree Seeds

Northern Red Oak Tree Seeds

(Quercus borealis, rubra)

Quercus borealis is an older scientific name for the Northern Red Oak, which is now classified as Quercus rubra. This tree is native to North America, widely found in the eastern and central United States and parts of Canada. Northern red oaks thrive in a variety of soil types, although they prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soils.

Characteristics

• Size: Typically grows 60–75 feet tall, but in ideal conditions can reach up to 100 feet.
• Leaves: Its leaves are distinctive with 7 to 11 lobes, each ending in a pointed tip. They turn a beautiful shade of red in the fall.
• Bark: The bark is smooth and gray when young, developing into dark ridges as the tree matures.
• Acorns: The tree produces acorns, which serve as a food source for wildlife. These acorns mature in about two years.

Ecological and Economic Importance

• Wildlife: The acorns provide food for various animals like squirrels, deer, and birds.
• Timber: Known for its durable wood, northern red oak is often used in furniture, flooring, and cabinetry.
• Conservation: It is often planted for reforestation and as a shade tree in urban areas due to its adaptability.

Growth and Care

The Northern Red Oak grows rapidly compared to other oaks and can adapt to urban conditions, making it a popular choice for landscaping. It requires full sun and moderate moisture to thrive, though it is fairly drought-tolerant once established.

Zones: 3 to 7

Germination Range: 70-90%

Stratification Requirement: Seed requires 60-90 days cold moist stratification.

Please Note: Our Northern Red Oak Acorns are shipped without the acorn caps since our Red Oak Acorns are sold for planting purposes only. (Not for Crafts). 

Planting Instructions:

Northern Red Oak tree seeds require cold moist stratification—a period of cold dormancy—to enhance germination rates.

To stratify, place acorns in a container with moist seed starting soil and keep them in a refrigerator at around 34–41°F (1–5°C) for 60 to 90 days. During this time, check periodically to ensure the medium remains moist, as overly dry or wet conditions can harm the seeds. After stratification, the seeds are ready to be planted either directly outdoors or in containers. If planting outdoors, choose a well-draining, sunny location and sow acorns about an inch deep, spacing them around 12 to 24 inches apart. For container planting, use a large, deep container filled with a well-draining potting mix, and plant each acorn about an inch deep.

Once planted, provide regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. It’s essential to protect the young seedlings from animals and harsh weather, as they’re especially vulnerable in their first few years. Placing a wire cage or mesh around the planting site or container can help prevent damage from wildlife. Patience is key, as Northern Red Oak tree seedlings establish a robust root system in the first year, which can slow visible growth initially. With care and regular watering, your young Red Oak will steadily grow, eventually developing into a hardy and majestic tree.