Bur Oak Seeds (Quercus macrocarpa)

We have fresh Bur Oak acorns available, these are collected when ripe in the fall are are best planted immediately. 

** Fall 2024 Update - We have some stock in 2023 acorns left and are making them available in 20 packs.  Germination rate will be around 80-90% based on a cut test.   We were only able to collect a small amount of new acorns in 2024 so we have those available in limited numbers in 12 packs.  **

Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) is the species of white oak that grows around our nursery.  Our seeds are collected from local wild stands of large healthy trees.   The trees are very adapted to our sandy soil and extreme winters.  Long lived shade trees they commonly reach 200-300 years old.  The acorns are the mildest of any oak and can be processed for food.  They make excellent habitat and food for wildlife.  Note acorns should be fall planted fresh, even though they don't require any cold stratification. If you can't get them into the ground sow into pots, mulch heavily and store outside in a sheltered location for the winter. 

Hardiness Zone: 3
Stratification Required: None
Germination Testing:  Fresh acorns are float tested.  After some time in cold storage we use a cut test to check them, a bright white healthy kernel indicates a seed in good shape. 
Planting instructions:  Our seeds are fresh to preserve viability. We recommend keeping them refrigerated for short term storage, and fall planting into prepared seed beds.  Keep seeds in the bag, and optionally soak in water for 24 hrs before planting. Sow 1-2" deep and cover with mulch.  Add squirrel and rodent protection, like wire mesh.  If the weather is warm enough the seeds will germinate and root in the fall, otherwise they'll germinate in the spring.