A tree that reaches high into the sky must also have correspondingly deep roots in the earth. Is this why the oak is called a deep-rooted tree? In fact, the oak's main root is as long as the visible part of the tree above ground.
Why are oak trees called deep-rooted?
Oaks are deep-rooted trees with a long taproot that can reach up to 40 m deep into the earth. The depth is important in order to reach deep groundwater layers, secure the water supply and protect the oak tree from storm damage.
The taproot goes deeper
It is the so-called taproot of the oak that penetrates deep into the earth. It inevitably has to be particularly strong in order to penetrate even hard layers of soil or avoid obstacles such as stones.
- grows from the long radicle
- is usually exactly as long as the tree is tall
- can reach a length of up to 40 m over the years
- reaches just as deep into the earth as it grows vertically
Why is depth important?
The numerous oak species are equipped with a taproot because their penetration into the depths is important for the tree's survival.
- deep groundwater layers are reached
- Water supply is thereby secured
- Root that grows deep in the ground acts like an anchor
- this gives the oak stability
- even strong storms cannot uproot them
The neighboring plants do not penetrate as deep as the oak. Their roots can therefore use the nutrients available there undisturbed. This makes the tree easy to care for because it does not need to be additionally fertilized.
Deep-rooted plants need he althy roots
With its long taproot, the oak has a firm grip on its location. Getting her out of it becomes impossible the older she gets. At least not without damaging the root.
A he althy root is a prerequisite for the tree to thrive he althily in the new location. The tree cannot compensate for gaps in supply and cannot grow new roots. Weakened vitality also makes it susceptible to diseases and pests.
Transplant only young trees
If at all, only transplant an oak tree while it is still young and its roots are not too long. It is even better if you carefully consider choosing the optimal location before planting and thereby avoid the need to move later.
Felling down an oak tree
Sometimes a large oak tree is so annoying that cutting alone doesn't help. It must be felled. While the above-ground branches are easily accessible, the deep roots are difficult to get out of the ground. It must be professionally cut off or left to rot in the ground.
