How to Care for a Shumard Oak

Clear grass from under the tree, extending the turf-free area to the drip line. The drip line is the imaginary line where rain drips from the tips of the outermost branches. This step is especially critical for young trees, as grass competes with the tree for available nutrients and moisture.

Cover the bare ground under the tree with 3 inches of mulch, such as shredded bark or pine needles. Mulch will control the growth of weeds, which like grass, compete for nutrients and moisture. Maintain the mulch until the Shumard oak is well-established.

Allow a 10-inch circle of ground immediately around the trunk to remain bare, or cover the area with a very thin layer of mulch. This setup allows water to reach the roots of the tree and keeps the trunk dry.

Irrigate regularly and lightly to keep the soil moist for the first three months after planting if you live in USDA growing zone 9 to 11. Keep the soil moist for six months in zones 7 to 8 and up to one year in zones 2 to 6, or until the tree changes color in late autumn. Water the tree immediately over the root ball, providing 1 to 2 inches of water for every inch of trunk diameter.

Water established trees only during periods of warm, dry weather, as Shumard oak is relatively drought tolerant and natural rainfall is adequate.

Prune the Shumard oak, if necessary, before new growth emerges in early spring. Prune only to remove diseased or broken branches, branches that rub on other branches or those that grow toward the center of the tree.