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What You Don't Know About Valley Oak(Quercus Lobata)

Valley Oak becomes the largest oak in North America. It stretches through the warm valleys of the interior of California, where groundwater is within reach of the roots. Valley Oaks grows quickly, reaching 20 feet in 5 years, 40 feet in 10 years, and up to 60 feet in 20 years. Adults can live up to 600 years. It has a thick, ribbed bark reminiscent of the skin of an alligator. A solid valley oak trunk can have a diameter of more than two to three meters and a height of up to 100 meters.

The irregularly-shaped branches, spreading and curving, form a deep, leafless silhouette against the clear winter sky. In fall, the leaves change color from yellow to bright orange and turn brown in mid-to-late fall. With age, the branches acquire the character of drooping. The wavy pewter bark adds to the appeal of this species. The leaves are typically five to ten inches long, with a round, deep petals. The width of the sheet is about half its length. Each leaf is dull green with a light green underside; In addition, the sheet is covered with a lot of soft fluff, which gives it an almost velvety look. When a fresh leaf is rubbed or broken, a fragrant odor is emitted, causing the smell of the forest. The wood is dark brown and approaches yellow.

In October, acorns cover most of the area. They are eaten by a wide variety of mammals and birds, including tetra acorns, western soybeans, yellow-billed magpies, and California squirrels. Like many oaks, Valley Oaks tolerates forest fires well. Although small individuals can be killed from above, most grow from root to root. The Oak Valley can tolerate cold, wet winters and hot, dry summers, but requires a lot of water. It is most common in rich, deep valley soils below 600 meters, but can be found up to 5,600 feet. Valley oak is found in dense coastal forests, open foothills, and valley savannas. Living Coastal Oaks, Living Indoor Oaks, Blue Oaks, Black Walnuts, California Plane Trees, and the scent of pine are commonly associated with trees. Valley oak is common in the Central Valley of California and in many smaller valleys such as the San Fernando Valley.

Due to its size, it may not be suitable for a typical home garden. It is best not to water within 30 feet of rooted valley oaks. They often ingest too much water, resulting in broken limbs.

They are dirty but beautiful. Best planted near water sources.

Support for wildlife

Oaks are very important for wildlife in general, including birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. Oaks typically attract many insects, including the following butterflies that using oak as a host plant: Sister California, Properties Twilight Wing, Gloomy Twilight Wing, Golden Hairstyle, and Golden Hunter Hairstyle.

Difficulties of oak planting

The planting of oaks is delicate because they are difficult to move. It is therefore preferable to plant them as young as possible, or even to sow them in place. Only plants that are one or two years old can be planted with bare roots; older plants should be planted in a root ball or container.

Get in touch with a professional

Prime Tree Service is a company located in Lodi, CA, specializing in all interventions on trees (pruning: pruning, and care, dismantling, felling), as well as brush clearing work.

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