Sawtooth Oak Tree

The Sawtooth Oak tree (Quercus acutissima) is a cold hardy, moderately growing drought tolerant tree commonly grown in USDA growing zones 5-9. These full to partial sun lovers are celebrated for their history, natural beauty and the host of wildlife that comes when it forms it's acorns. Their freshly emerging leaves start off a brilliant, bright yellow-green then to a deep green in the summer season and a rich, gold-russet in the fall. Sawtooth's name is taken from their distinctive saw-like edges to the foliage. The oak tree will mature to a height and width of 40-60 feet so be sure to take into account any establishments or power lines that may be obstructed by the tree's tall growth.

Seasonal Information: Plant your tree as soon as you can. This will give the tree a chance to adjust to its new environment. If you are experiencing extreme heat, place your potted tree in a well-shaded area, such as a garage, or plant it in a well-shaded area in your lawn. Once older, your tree will be able to handle these temperatures. Typically trees do not experience much growth during times of extreme temperatures.

Planting directions: Your planting site should be made of loose, quality soil.
1) Dig your hole two times the width and the same depth as the root system of the tree. This will give the roots plenty of room to spread out.
2) Position the tree into the hole and hold it straight as you begin to back fill.
3) When refilling the hole with soil, be sure to completely cover your roots and tamp down the soil so there are no air pockets underground. If pockets of air come in contact with your roots, they will dry out quickly. Cover the roots completely with soil but leave the stem above ground.
4) Water the oak's planting site to settle the soil and then mulch to retain moisture.

Watering: During the first year, make sure your Sawtooth Oak Tree gets water during extended dry spells, particularly in the summer months. Drooping leaves are a sign of both over or under watering, so take great care of your tree.

Fertilizer: Fertilize conservatively. Organic fertilizer high in nitrogen works well. You can use Miracle Grow, a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing the tree directly. Instead, fertilize the tree’s soil.

Weed Control: Keep weeds and grass two to three feet away from your Sawtooth Oak Tree in the first year. Pull the weeds initially, and then you can use a growing mat or mulch. Do not spray roundup on a young tree and be careful that wind does not blow chemical drift on the tree.

Deer: If you think deer may be a problem, consider caging the tree. Although there is a whole host of chemical deterrents, caging is the only guaranteed way to keep deer from damaging your tree.

Insects and Disease: The best defense is a healthy tree. Sawtooth Oak Trees are very hardy. Good soil, proper feeding and keeping the tree from getting too much water are key to its prosperity. If worms bite holes in the leaves you can sprinkle seven dust on them. These little bites do not affect the tree since it is growing at such a fast rate and putting on so many new leaves.

Winter Dormancy: During late fall and winter, your tree will go dormant. The leaves will fall off and the stem will turn brown. Nothing will be happening above ground, but the roots will continue to grow below, especially during nice days. This winter root growth will help accelerate growth when spring comes.