PL ANT OF TH E M ON TH
JIM FUNAI, LIC Cuyahoga Community College Sessile Oak is one of the most important species in Europe both economically and ecologically. Oak timber is traditionally used for building, ships and furniture.
SHELLEY FUNAI, LIC Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
QUERCUS PETRAEA SESSILE OAK
In our travels through Central Europe, perhaps what we have found most interesting are the similarities between the Eastern Czech forests and our own native forests, despite the difference in climatic conditions. Both regions have a familiar feel; a mix of Oak, Beech, and Maples, with some evergreens tossed in for fun. The major difference tends to be that the dominant forest Evergreen here is White Pine – perhaps Juniper in southern Ohio – while the dominant Evergreen in Central Europe is the Fir. Now, we love our Oaks, Beeches, and Maples! Who doesn’t? But, as most of us are coming to realize, we cannot continue to rely solely on these major genera to get our landscapes through the era of global trade. As you know, Oak wilt (Bretziella fagacearum) – a wide spread fungal disease throughout much of Ohio – is quickly killing members of the Red Oak group, and at a somewhat slower pace eradicating members of the White Oak group.
of Oak wilt management is the selection of trees that are less susceptible, as well as the concept of not overplanting Oak species as monocultures. Theoretically, this is true of all pest management strategies. Anyone still planting the same tree species throughout an entire parking lot, drive, street, etc., should be kicked rather swiftly in the shin. All we do when we plant monocultures is encourage pest issues to bring sadness into our lives!
That said, plant health care has never been more technical, or more important, than it is in today’s world. On the forefront
So, back to Oaks and Europe… On our excursions, we have come to know two dominant species of Oaks in Central
22 | Official Publication of The Ohio Landscape Association