4 Oak trees TIMING: summer (leaves), autumn (acorns)
Excessive amounts of green acorns or spring leaves (approximately 50% of their diet) can be toxic, but once matured, oak leaves are a nutritious and beneficial stock food, and are known to ‘bind’ up runny manure caused by lush grass. • aged, brown acorns are an excellent source of starch and nutrients for ducks and pigs; • leaves are a beneficial supplement for cows; • quick-growing long-lived shade tree; • excellent timber and firewood tree; • deciduous, some varieties have lovely autumn colour.