GardenWizzPlant Care Card

Oaks

Quercus · Tree

Hardiness
—
Position
Full sun, Partial shade
Height × Spread
15–35 m × 10–20 m
Soil
well-drained, fertile soil; moist but well-drained, acidic to neutral soil; tolerates heavier clays; dislikes waterlogged soil and poor drainage
Flowering
April–May
Toxicity
Oak leaves and acorns contain enough tannin to be toxic to cattle

The Gardening Year

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
🪴 Plant out
🌸 In flower
✂️ Prune

Watch out for

Oak processionary moth: Report to TreeAlert and avoid contact due to irritant hairs; professional removal is required.

Acute oak decline: Monitor affected trees and report widespread cases to Forest Research for investigation.

Chronic oak decline: Improve site conditions and soil health to support natural recovery and resilience.

Oak bark beetles: Maintain tree health to prevent infestation and prune out severely affected wood.

Honey fungus: Improve drainage and avoid wounding roots; consult an arborist for severe cases.

Full guide: gardenwizz.com/plants/quercus © GardenWizz — UK gardening encyclopedia