The oak tree

The oak tree:

not interested

in cherry blossoms.

— Matsuo Basho translated by Robert Haas

At the end of our driveway is a Bur oak tree that was here long before our neighborhood existed. In fact, local tree historian Bruce Allison estimated that it was growing there before Wisconsin was a state. Every year it showers our driveway with acorns that make a loud crunching sound when we drive over them. 

Now and then I note an oak seedling in the garden but they usually don't last. This spring we have three small but sturdy looking oak trees that made it through their first winter. I am like a proud parent: enjoying their presence and keeping a watchful eye on them to assure their survival.

 

Comments

[Erin @ The Impatient Gardener]

That's fun! Will you leave them where they are or replant them elsewhere? I potted up a bunch of seedlings from a particularly spectacular maple in our yard a few years ago and grew them out but it didn't end well. We have four American beech trees that I consider the kings of the property and I've wanted to propagate them forever. They grow in shoots at the base of one of the trees, but apparently it's nearly impossible to separate them with enough root to do anything. Seems like my only option is to try to collect some seed in fall and try that way. I'm willing to give it a go at least.