Several years ago I read Douglas W. Tallamy’s book, Bringing Nature Home. This book had a huge influence on me. It was a kind of enlightenment. I had always had an irrational fear of spiders and insects in general. I have always loved trees, but I was truly amazed to learn that the oak tree is host to more life forms (including insects) than any of the other trees found here in North America. I learned that many bird species dine exclusively on insects and that oak trees host hundreds of caterpillars that will later become butterflies. I learned that all of life is connected in perfectly designed ecosystems where hundreds of species have lived in balance – that is – until humans began to destroy that balance.
Oak trees are the longest living and strongest trees on our continent and there are numerous oak species to choose from. Unfortunately, people generally plant trees with fast growth rates and ones that often have weak wood. The early settlers understood the value of oak and often planted it on their homesteads. A few of these trees are still standing today. Furniture and flooring was regularly made of oak because of its durability. Hammocks and porch swings were often hung from their supportive branches. There was a popular song, with lyrics that implored of a man’s sweetheart, “Tie a yellow ribbon ‘round the old oak tree if you still love me.” We sometimes refer to someone with seemingly superhuman strength by claiming, “they are as strong as an oak.” The most exciting discovery of this beloved tree is that it is also one of the best trees to plant for carbon sequestration.
Ever since I read Tallamy’s book, I have made it my mission in life to provide habitat whenever and wherever I can. I have not yet had the opportunity to plant an oak tree, but now that I am in a place where I intend to stay, it is on my to-do list for the coming spring. I hope to plant a food forest of fruit trees. I will definitely be planting a conifer, or two, to provide windbreak, summer shade, and cover for birds, as well as shrubs, endless flowers, and herbs. I can hardly wait!
