Ask Mr. Smarty Plants

Ever wondered what the best flowers and plants are for your garden? Search our extensive database of frequently asked questions - and their answers! Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

Search Smarty Plants
       
 

Can't find the answer in our existing FAQs, submit a question to Mr. Smarty Plants.
Need help with a Plant Identification, submit your photo to the Green Guru.

rate this answer
1 rating

Thursday - December 04, 2003

From: San Saba County, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Native Trees
Title: Daily water absorption of live oak from soil
Author: Stephen Brueggerhoff

QUESTION:

How much water does the live oak absorb from the soil per day?

ANSWER:

I performed a search through Google, and the only item that I could come up with is an article reporting research on water consumption in the production of ornamental trees. This research was committed through the Louisiana State University Horticulture department, and I suggest getting in contact with the person listed at the website (Sam Rollason; e-mail: mailto:srollarson@agcenter.lsu.edu). They should be able to direct you to additional research being done in this area. Keep in mind that there are oftentimes too many variables in field research to provide conclusive results; a more controlled environment, such as provided on this study of southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) & live oak (Quercus virginiana) in a nursery setting, can provide more conclusive determinations.
 
Please support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today.

More on Native Trees from Mr. Smarty Plants

Question: November 20, 2009 - I have a number of cedar elm saplings coming up in a garden bed which I am planning on replanting. It is very difficult to remove the entire taproot below about 1.5 feet as I encounter rocks and heavy clay. What are the chances that these will resprout and come up through my new plants if I don't remove the entire root? Thanks, Ryan
view the full question and answer

Question: November 18, 2009 - Is it OK to put Christmas lights and decorations on a live oak?
view the full question and answer

Question: November 16, 2009 - I have a somewhat small yard but the construction workers put a water and sewer drain in the middle of my yard. The sewer main is located on the far side of my property my width of yard is 60 feet width from street to house is 27 feet. I want a low root system tree to plant. I don't want a big tree(over 30ft). What type of tree should I get?
view the full question and answer