How to Make Your Live Oak Grow Faster

Place a 3- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch broadly around the base of the oak tree. Extend the mulch, when space allows, to at least 3 feet beyond the outermost reach of the branch tips. The mulch conserves soil moisture, decomposes to add nutrients to the soil for tree roots to absorb, and diminishes weeds and nearby plants -- especially turf grasses -- from competing for water and nutrient resources. Replenish this mulch layer annually as needed to maintain the proper mulch depth. Expand the width of the mulched area as the tree grows, too.

Increase sunlight exposure to the oak tree, if possible. The more sunlight, the more photosynthesis that occurs in the leaves, leading to a stronger plant and more growth. Trim away branches of nearby trees that cast dense shade onto the oak.

Irrigate the oak during periods of drought, especially if in sandy soils that have fast drainage. Although drought tolerant, oak trees will maintain their growth rate if the soil is evenly moist from spring to fall when temperatures are warm and conducive for growth. For example, while branches may grow by 4 inches during a dry summer, irrigating the soil may allow the branches to grow a couple more inches because the tree isn't stressed by the lack of water. The mulch layer helps with soil moisture conservation in tandem with irrigation.

Scatter slow-release, well-balanced fertilizer granules in late winter and again in early summer. A 10-10-10 formula works well, but contact your local cooperative extension office for recommendations for tree fertilizers based on the climate and soils in your region. Follow product labels for proper dosage for the size of the oak. Scatter the fertilizer widely and broadly -- under the branches and beyond, where active roots grow -- not next to the trunk. While the mulch layer provides organic nutrients, a little fertilizer ensures the soil provides the minerals required for the best, healthiest growth. Oaks growing in sandy soils may benefit the most from the use of slow-release fertilizer.