Pin Oak develops nicely on moist, acid soils and is tolerant of compaction, wet soil and urban conditions. It is very sensitive to soil pH above the high 6’s. A native to stream banks and flood plains, Pin Oak grows well in areas where water stands for several weeks at a time. One of the adaptive mechanisms of Pin Oak is a fibrous, shallow root system which allows it to tolerate flooded soil conditions once established in the landscape. Plant trees in a slightly raised mound or bed if soil is poorly drained. Prune any double or multiple leaders out as soon as they are recognized. Several prunings will be needed in the first 15 to 20 years after planting. Plants have been rooted from cuttings.

Lower branches droop toward the ground as the tree grows. Trees are considered poor compartmentalizers of decay. This means decay can develop and spread quickly following mechanical injury from construction activities near the tree, vandalism, storm damage, or improper pruning cuts. However, trees are very tolerant of urban conditions and have survived and grow well along streets. Trees in alkaline soils can be treated with iron to help keep them green. Although this greens plants up for a couple of years, regular treatment is needed every three years or so to keep trees green.

Wood weighs about 63 pounds per cubic foot. Oak wood is considered ring porous to semi-ring porous.

RETURN TO TREES