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The Daily Insight

How long does it take for a live oak tree to get big?

Author

Matthew Barrera

Published Jun 03, 2026

How long does it take for a live oak tree to get big?

Growth Rate This usually means that live oak can gain 24 inches or more in a single growing season, assuming growing conditions are optimal. Live oak normally tops out between 40 and 80 feet, and may reach widths of 60 to 100 feet. If well-sited, a live oak should reach its mature shape and size in 75 years or less.

Will a hard freeze kill a live oak?

No! Even if its leaves brown after a freeze, the live oak will probably recover. Live oaks generally have a leaf exchange in the spring, and the leaves that were killed by frost should be replaced by new leaves when the tree starts budding. In some cases, the dead leaves may fall off before the new leaves emerge.

How often should you water a live oak tree?

Water is crucial in the first several months as your live oak settles in its new home. Water the tree weekly, soaking the ground each time. After the tree has been in its location for a couple months, reduce watering to once every two weeks, and then cut back to once monthly.

Can a live oak tree grow in full sun?

Look for a place on your property where the oak tree will be exposed to full sun, even in its smallest stages. If your oak tree is grown in partial shade, it may grow slowly or it may not thrive at all. Avoid planting your live oak too close to your house, as its sprawling branches will drop leaves and may even drop branches on your home.

When to plant a live oak tree in Florida?

Live oaks are almost evergreen in Florida, but will lose their leaves just before spring growth encourages new leaves to appear. This is their dormant stage. Planting your tree in this stage will give it a long growing season to make its recovery.

Can a live oak tree survive a hurricane?

Live oak trees are durable, hardy trees that are especially resistant to damage from high winds. This means that a healthy oak will survive most tropical storms and hurricanes, leaving you one less thing to worry about in the event of a big, destructive storm.

How old do oak trees live to be?

This magnificent, broadleaf evergreen tree will be a picturesque addition to your landscape. It grows rapidly when young and may live to be centuries old. Adapts to almost any soil.

Water is crucial in the first several months as your live oak settles in its new home. Water the tree weekly, soaking the ground each time. After the tree has been in its location for a couple months, reduce watering to once every two weeks, and then cut back to once monthly.

What kind of soil does a live oak tree need?

The live oak is very adaptable—growing in acidic, alkaline, loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained and clay soils. While it prefers normal moisture, the tree has some flood and drought tolerance. Grows rapidly when young.

Live oaks are almost evergreen in Florida, but will lose their leaves just before spring growth encourages new leaves to appear. This is their dormant stage. Planting your tree in this stage will give it a long growing season to make its recovery.