The biggest project for Brookdale Park Conservancy in 2022 was replanting some of the park’s tree canopy that has been lost in recent years. Trees were selected based on being native species as well alignment with the Olmsted vision of park landscape. Out of 21 new trees planted, 15 were oaks including Bur, Scarlet, and White. Why so many oak trees? We’re glad you asked!
Oak trees support over 500 hundred species of moth and butterflies, not to mention other insects - more than any other tree. Birds feed on the insects and acorns, and forage longer in oak trees than in other types of trees. Squirrels, deer, and other animals rely on acorns for food as well. This time of year you will find that lots of acorns have fallen from the oaks. Fall is a great opportunity to plant an acorn and grow an oak tree - check out the "how to" link below!
Oak trees live a long time. Most will live hundreds of years, with some species living up to 1,000 years. Oak trees are magnificent to behold, soaring up to 80 feet into the sky and spreading almost as wide. They provide shade and their deep root systems protect against soil erosion. Oak trees provide shelter and great nesting for birds and squirrels.
Even though we aren’t tall enough to see it, there is so much happening in the canopy of the oak trees. Bring a pair of binoculars into the park in April and May, and spot an array of migratory birds, including the tiny and colorful warblers feasting on insects.
To learn more about the importance of oak trees and the key role they play in our ecosystems, we recommend Douglas Tallamy’s book "The Nature of Oaks".
Fall Family Activity - How to Plant An Oak Tree
Plant Acorns and Grow an Oak Tree!
Why You Should Plant an Oak, from the NY Times
By replanting the tree canopy, we’re ensuring the park stays beautiful for generations to come and biodiversity is protected well into the future. Canopy tree planting is independently funded by donations from people like you. Click here to donate to Brookdale Park Conservancy