Oaks are among the deep-rooted deciduous trees. They develop very strong taproots that penetrate so deeply into the earth that they can reach groundwater. If the root is damaged, the tree will die quickly.
What are the roots of an oak tree like?
Oaks have deep-rooted taproots that penetrate many meters into the ground and reach the groundwater, as well as side runners. These roots give the oak a high degree of stability and storm resistance and enable it to absorb nutrients and water from deep layers of the earth.
The roots of the oak trees
Immediately after an acorn has germinated, the garden owner may notice that small, strong roots develop at the bottom of the fruit and descend downwards. These are the so-called taproots. On the sides of these taproots, small root extensions form that look like small hairs.
The taproot provides the oak with all the necessary nutrients and water. The oak's root system is so strong that it can penetrate even compacted soil layers.
The upper small roots reach the same dimensions as the above-ground tree crown just below the surface of the earth.
Oaks are stormproof
Due to their root system, oaks are considered particularly storm-proof, as the long taproots grow many meters deep into the ground. This gives the tree great stability.
The tree is not uprooted even in strong storms. At most, the branches break off or the trunk splits.
Be careful when transplanting
Because of their root system, oak trees should only be transplanted when they are young. As soon as the trees have reached a height of two meters, moving them is hardly possible.
This is because with older oak trees it is almost impossible to dig the long taproots out of the ground without damage.
If the taproots are broken or even torn off, this usually leads to the tree dying.
Tips & Tricks
Thanks to their long taproot, oak trees can obtain nutrients and water even from very deep layers of earth. It is therefore not necessary to fertilize or water older oak trees in the garden.
