Question

I collected fallen acorns from a white oak tree in Toronto, Ontario, in mid-September 2023. The acorns were germinating at the time, so I planted them (in a cage to protect them from rodents).

So far, only roots have grown, no leaves. Is it normal for only roots to grow in this case, saving leaf growth for the spring?

Answer 1

Yes, it is normal for only the roots to grow when acorns are planted in the fall, as the oak tree prioritizes root development to establish itself in preparation for spring growth. It may take years for oak trees to mature and produce their own acorns, showing their investment in long-term growth and survival.

Step-by-step explanation:

It is normal for only the roots of an acorn to grow initially, particularly if the acorns were planted in the fall. During the autumn and winter months, oak trees, including those that grow from acorns, are more focused on establishing a strong root system before the onset of colder weather, which is crucial for the tree's survival and future growth. This root growth allows the acorn to secure itself in the soil and ensure access to nutrients and water when it begins to grow leaves come spring. Oak trees, through a strategy known as K-selection, produce large energy-rich seeds that prioritize quick establishment over rapid reproduction, so the reserve energy in the acorn is used primarily for root development early on. It can take approximately 20 years for oak trees to produce their first seeds, which indicates they are slow-growing and invest heavily in long-term survival and growth rather than quick reproduction.