Oak Tree: Symbolism, Information and Planting Instructions

Symbolism of the Mighty Oak

The Oak tree is one of the most loved trees in the world, and with good reason. It’s a symbol of strength, morale, resistance and knowledge.  Throughout history, the Oak has been represented in different mythologies and sometimes linked to powerful gods (in Greek mythology it was a symbol of Zeus, the God of Thunder.) The oak is considered a cosmic storehouse of wisdom embodied in its towering strength. It grows slowly, but surely at its own rate. Oak is often associated with honor, nobility, and wisdom as well thanks to its size and longetivity.  Oaks are known to easily surpass 300 years of age making it a powerful life-affirming symbol. “The oak is a living legend representing all that is true, wholesome, stable, and noble.”

The Importance of Oak Trees

Symbolism aside, Oak trees are important for a number of reasons. The oak tree belongs to the Quercus genus tree species – there are up to 800 species all over the world, especially in the Northern hemisphere where they are native. It’s a long-lived tree which can live more than 1000 years. The oak is a tree with multiple uses: the boiled bark has therapeutic properties. Its fruit (acorn) is used to feed livestock and in times of shortage has also been used for human consumption. A meadow of oaks is a refuge for many animal species. The shape of the blade is very characteristic, and is found in badges, coins and medals.

Oak trees support a complex ecosystem with many species, including humans. The oak is one of the most loved trees by the humans, and it can be easily found in many artistic creations.

Planting Instructions

For our Oak species, which are part of the Red Oak family, we recommend a small stratification period to get them ready for planting.

1. Place the seeds inside of a plastic bag in the fridge with a small amount of compost, and make sure they are moist. Place them in the fridge for 2-4 weeks. Likewise, instead of planting in the fridge, you can plant them directly outdoors in a cool location, where temperatures are around 40 F.
2. Once germination begins, the Oak seeds should be planted between 1-3 inches below the surface of the soil. Avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to dry out.
3. Watch for germination when daytime temperatures top 65 F for one to two months.
4. Water the seeds with a bit of water weekly during the first summer.

The Bios Urn® is compatible with an Oak tree as with all other tree types. No exceptions! You can buy your Bios Urn® here.

Initial growth is rapid and within a few weeks from germination the seedlings will be between 10 and 15cm high. To encourage maximum growth ensure that the trees are never stressed because of a lack of water and that they are well nourished and grown in a warm, sunny position.
Trees should be planted in their permanent position as soon as is practical. If they are large enough, at the end of their first growing season and certainly at the end of the second. These should be planted in a large area, outdoors. Oak trees are not suitable for indoor growth for a long period of time. Allowing them to be grown in too shallow a container for any length of time will cause permanent root issues.