The two species available this year are the Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) and the American Filbert, or Hazelnut (Corylus americana). The Bur Oak is a very large deciduous shade tree and the American hazelnut is a smaller multi-stemmed shrub with a rounded top and an open, often wide-spreading base. The trees will be delivered as small "whips" in 5-gallon containers, making them easier to transplant with a greater chance for future growth success. Both specimens are ideal selections for starting your own Backyard Wildlife Habitat.

The Bur Oak is often described as a "behemoth," growing as large as 90 feet, so please be sure you have enough space in your yard for this magnificent, slow-growing, long-lived (200 years) species. That means at least 10 feet from a building, overhead wires, or smaller trees and 20 feet from large trees. If you have the space, the bur oak has a lovely rounded shape, is tolerant of a variety of moisture and soil conditions, prefers full sun, and doesn't have serious pest problems. In addition to its notable strength, it is a splendid tree for urban landscapes because it provides acorns for squirrels, has dense shade, and is resistant to air pollution and heat stress. To view pictures of the Bur Oak and learn more about it, go to either of these web sites:

  • http://www.cnr.vt.edu/DENDRO/dendrology/syllabus/factsheet.cfm?ID=72
  • http://www.arborday.org/Trees/TreeGuide/TreeDetail.cfm?ID=17

    The American Filbert, also commonly known as the American Hazelnut, is a multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub that grows 8-10' high and wide - often larger. Because of its size, it is adapts well to naturalizing and other non-formal areas. The shrub tolerates a wide variety of soil conditions and thrives under full sun or in light shade. And, of course, it bears annual, abundant crops of small, sweet-tasting nuts valued by both humans and wildlife only 2-3 years after planting. To view pictures of the American Filbert and learn more about it, go to:

  • http://www.cnr.vt.edu/DENDRO/DENDROLOGY/SYLLABUS/factsheet.cfm?ID=208
  • http://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ID=446

    Thanks and happy planting!