How Oaks Sustain Our Food Web and Nourish Our Lives

In 1872, a Nebraska newspaper editor named J. Sterling Morton had a bright idea: let’s have a day for planting trees. This sparked the first Arbor Day on April 10. About a million trees found new homes in Nebraska that year! By 1970, the last Friday in April became National Arbor Day, though different states still celebrate on their own dates.

If you’re thinking about planting a tree this year, consider an oak. Doug Tallamy, an entomologist from the University of Delaware, highlights the oak as a top choice. In his book The Nature of Oaks, he explains how these trees are vital for supporting local wildlife.

“Plants capture energy from the sun and turn it into food through photosynthesis,” Tallamy says. This food fuels not just plants but the entire food web. Oaks, in particular, are special because they have co-evolved with many native insects. There are 91 oak species in North America, making them essential for local ecosystems.

Some people worry they lack space for an oak tree. However, varieties like the dwarf chestnut oak exist, perfect for smaller yards.

When selecting an oak, think about your soil and growing conditions. Some oaks thrive in acidic soil, while others prefer rocky ground or wet areas. It’s also smart to check your hardiness zone and the amount of sunlight your planting area gets. For example, planting an oak in the mid-Atlantic can support hundreds of caterpillar species, crucial food for local birds.

This Arbor Day, planting an oak not only enriches your yard but also helps a range of wildlife. It’s a simple step toward a healthier planet.

For more on this topic, you can read studies from the National Arbor Day Foundation.

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