Northern red oak is an upland oak species occurring on moist, well-drained sites such as north to east slopes, coves and other protected slope positions. Northern red oak produces prolific acorn crops less frequently than other oak species. Good acorn crops occur every two to five years but heavy crops may only occur at 10-year intervals. Trees normally start to flower at age 15. However, abundant production may not occur until age 50.
Acorns take two growing seasons to mature.
Flowers are produced the first year, but the acorn does not start to fill out until the second year. Often development of natural seedlings is slow because low light levels hinder vigorous growth. Naturally regenerated seedlings must withstand browsing and other types of abuse and may die and resprout for a number of years before achieving substantial size. Relatively large advanced regeneration is necessary to adequately perpetuate the species during regeneration harvests typical of the Southeast. Nursery grown seedlings are capable of growing two to three feet per year under the proper conditions.