Scarlet Oak or Quercus coccinea is my favorite oak tree here at Oak Lawn Cheese Factory. I originally planted three seedlings and this is the only tree to have survived the first year. Scarlet Oak would probably prefer a sandy or gravelly position. Unfortunately I didn't have that to offer, but it's tap root has probably descended past the rich loam and clay levels of our property… I believe there is actually gravel at about six feet here.
We are quite a bit west of the scarlet oak's natural range. It probably would prefer the soil to be somewhat acidic, but it has adapted to our neutral ph quite well.
We should be approaching acorn production as 20 years is when it normally can begin. I will never see a large acorn production as that is easily 30 years away at this point. The tree is monecious so my one specimen is capable of setting fruit by itself.
Things to be aware of include a rot disease that can invade through wounds so I am especially careful regarding pruning, and the scarlet oak is also susceptible to oak wilt which I have observed in the surrounding area with other oaks. This means pruning in winter only.
Scarlet oak actually grows quite rapidly for an oak tree, eventually creating a rounded crown and 75 feet of height. Of course, it's fall color is its number one attribute to my way of thinking and I also love the shiny, leathery foliage through the summer as well.
Our scarlet oak shares a relatively small footprint with a burr oak that we also think very highly of, and a tricolor beech. I anticipate the oaks growing quite well in tandem and suspect that the beech may eventually be overpowered. I can't bare to part with any one of the trio, so nature will have to run its course… Larry
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