Growing the Pin Oak

When people think about the Pin Oak Tree, they usually envision a solid and gnarled tree. This is a tree that breaks a lot of rules. Many people love to see this straight and slender tree in their backyards. The Pin Oak is native to the Eastern area of the United States. This is a hearty tree that grows well between zones 4 and 8. While the Pin Oak is known for having dark green leaves, they tend to turn scarlet when the weather cools in the fall. What type of conditions does the Pin Oak Tree prefer?

A Brief Description: The Pin Oak

Even though many trees grow slowly, that is not true with the Pin Oak. This is a tree that grows quickly. The Pin Oak can grow over three feet per year in optimal conditions. In addition, the Pin Oak is tall and free. If cared for, the Pin Oak can reach 100 feet in height; however, most Pin Oaks are usually around 70 feet tall. They tend to grow better in the wild than in someone’s garden. When the Pin Oak is given plenty of room, the canopy can be as wide as the tall tree.

Optimal Growing Conditions for Pin Oak

If you move a Pin Oak to your garden, give it the best soil and nutrients possible. A lot of people call Pin Oaks “Swamp Oaks” because they like soil that is moist and wet. If the soil drains poorly, that is perfect for the Pin Oak. They grow well both in the sun and shade; however, if the branches do not get any sunlight, they could start to die or break. If the soil is dry, Pin Oaks usually have trouble growing. They can be a great source of shade for your yard.