[vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg__animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg__animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]Deer love acorns, which are one of their preferred food sources. Whenever they find acorns, they will linger around, happily munching away and filling up in carbohydrates and fats.
There are more than 200 oak tree types in North America. Oak trees are very versatile and will grow in different soil types and climates. Some of them are drought-resistant while others will survive swampy conditions for short periods of time.
When landowners decide to create a wildlife orchard on their land, they are often seduced by the beauty of apple trees, pear trees, persimmons, and plum trees. However, oaks are the fundamental basis on which to create a wildlife orchard.
Besides providing deer with food, oak trees have an extra advantage: they provide a thicket where deer can hide. Deer dislike open spaces where they are exposed. They like hiding in bushes and under trees. Oak trees provide the perfect shelter.
We advise landowners who want to see white-tailed deer linger on their land to plant several types of oak trees. These will give mast crops throughout late summer, the fall, and even early winter.
Follow the tips below to make the best choice of oak trees for your land[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” column_margin=”default” column_direction=”default” column_direction_tablet=”default” column_direction_phone=”default” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” row_border_radius=”none” row_border_radius_applies=”bg” overflow=”visible” overlay_strength=”0.3″ gradient_direction=”left_to_right” shape_divider_position=”bottom” bg__animation=”none”][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_tablet=”inherit” column_padding_phone=”inherit” column_padding_position=”all” column_element_direction_desktop=”default” column_element_spacing=”default” desktop_text_alignment=”default” tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ column_backdrop_filter=”none” column_shadow=”none” column_border_radius=”none” column_link_target=”_self” column_position=”default” gradient_direction=”left_to_right” overlay_strength=”0.3″ width=”1/1″ tablet_width_inherit=”default” animation_type=”default” bg__animation=”none” border_type=”simple” column_border_width=”none” column_border_style=”solid”][vc_column_text]
As an oak tree enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for the best acorn producers to plant on my property. Acorns have so many uses – they make a nutritious human food when processed correctly, provide essential nutrients for livestock, and support local wildlife. When choosing an oak, it’s important to consider the flavor size, and quantity of acorns as well as the tree’s growing requirements. In this article, I’ll share my research on the best oak trees for acorns and things to consider when making your selection.
White Oak
The white oak scientifically known as Quercus alba, is one of the most highly recommended species for acorns. This oak is native to North America and produces sweet mild-tasting acorns that require minimal leaching to remove tannins. The acorns are medium-sized and the trees produce heavy crops every 3 to 5 years once mature. White oaks grow well in zones 3-9 and prefer full sun. They have a moderate growth rate and typically reach 60-100 feet at maturity. If you’re looking for an all-around excellent acorn producer, the white oak is a top choice.
Bur Oak
Another fantastic option is the bur oak, or Quercus macrocarpa. I planted a bur oak on my property last fall and I’m eager to taste its acorns once it matures. Bur oaks produce very large, sweet acorns that are popular for human consumption. Some varieties produce acorns with low enough tannins to eat straight off the tree with no processing needed. These massive, hearty trees thrive in zones 3-8 and grow up to 80 feet tall. They’re also extremely cold hardy. For northern gardeners seeking a bumper acorn crop, bur oaks are the way to go.
Swamp White Oak
Swamp white oaks, Quercus bicolor, produce medium-sized acorns with a pleasant flavor. Like other white oaks, they contain fewer tannins than red oaks and are easier to process. Swamp white oaks thrive in moist soils and produce heavy acorn crops every 4 to 10 years once mature. They grow quickly when young and reach 60 to 80 feet at maturity. If you have poorly drained soil, these water-loving oaks are an excellent choice. Their abundant acorns will feed humans, livestock, and wildlife for generations.
Sawtooth Oak
For a heavy acorn producer, look no further than the sawtooth oak, or Quercus acutissima. Native to Asia, sawtooth oaks produce profuse amounts of small, round acorns that are avidly consumed by wildlife. The acorns are smaller than other oak varieties, but the trees yield huge quantities that can easily fill truck beds once established. Sawtooth oaks thrive in a variety of conditions and grow up to 50 feet tall. If you’re looking to supplement feed for farm animals or attract wild game, this heavy bearer is a perfect pick.
Gambel Oak
Gambel oak, scientifically called Quercus gambelii, offers a few advantages over standard oak trees. These small oak trees produce acorns within 5 to 10 years, much faster than larger species. The acorns have a pleasant flavor and contain moderate tannin levels. Gambel oaks only reach 10 to 30 feet tall at maturity, making them a great choice where space is limited. For gardeners eager to start harvesting acorns sooner, miniature Gambel oaks are the way to go.
Chinkapin Oak
The Chinkapin oak, Quercus muehlenbergii, is another excellent medium-sized acorn producer. It thrives in zones 4-8 and produces sweet, flavorful acorns comparable to chestnuts. Chinkapin oaks grow 40 to 60 feet tall and yield heavy acorn crops every 2 to 3 years once mature. The acorns contain lower tannins than most red oak varieties. For gardeners seeking an ornamental oak with tasty acorns, the Chinkapin is a splendid option.
When selecting the best oak tree for acorns, it’s important to consider your climate, available space, desired acorn characteristics, and timeline. Speak with knowledgeable nursery staff about oak varieties suitable for your region. With the right planning and care, you’ll be rewarded with abundant acorns to enjoy for generations to come. Let those acorns fall – your perfect oak is out there waiting!
Which Oak Tree Do Deer Prefer?
While deer generally love all oaks, they do have their preferences.
Deer prefer white oaks because they are sweeter and less acidic than red oaks. They also have lower tannins.
What Types of Oak Trees Are There?
Oak trees are generally divided into two main categories, white oaks and red oaks:
How to Grow Your Own Oak Tree from an Acorn
FAQ
Which oak tree produces the most acorns?
On average, white oak produced the most acorns and chestnut oak the fewest.
What is the best oak tree for eating acorns?
Generally, the best acorns to harvest are those of the white oaks, such as the swamp oak, Oregon white oak, and burr oak, as they contain less bitter tannin. Luckily, nearly all acorns can be made usable with natural processing which renders them nutty and sweet.
What is a deer’s favorite oak tree?
The White Oak, the deer favorite. White oak grows well in most parts of the United States, but particularly in central and eastern states. It is drought-resistant but loves sunshine. The Swamp Chestnut Oak is another white oak that gives acorns with low tannins and a sweet aftertaste.
Is there an oak tree that does not drop acorns?
No — all oaks have male and female flowers on the same tree (monecious). Therefore, all oak trees are capable of producing fruit (e.g., acorns) when the tree reaches sexual maturity. Return to Illinois Forestry.