Oak is one of the most magnificent creations of nature. It can reach a height of 30 meters, moreover, there are cases when this tree grew and higher. Its crown of carved leaves is capable of covering a surface of 50 m² with shadow. Given these parameters, oak can be safely called the king of our forests.
But what do we know about the "cloister" of oak? Where does he grow? What land prefers? And of course, what is oak wood? Consider all the questions in order.
What is oak grove?
Dubrava is a deciduous forest where the dominant species is oak. In Russia, such arrays are found in the European and Far Eastern regions. Oak forests also grow in the Caucasus. In total, they account for slightly less than 2% of the total forest area of the Russian Federation.
Pure oak forests are rare. Often, other tree species such as maple, birch, linden, aspen, wild pear and apple tree coexist peacefully next to the oak. And although the rays of the sun penetrate poorly through the crown of the giant, this is quite enough to provide lower trees with the right amount of light.
Oak is not very picky in the soil, so it can grow quietly both on moist soil and on dry sandstones. Climate conditions are much more important, because it does not tolerate prolonged droughts and high temperatures.
Life on the lower tier
So, we continue the story about what is oak grove. And here you need to remember one important point. Dubrava is not only the main row of trees towering above the ground. Undergrowth and grass will always be an integral part of such a forest.
Among the green giants , smaller trees grow here and there. So, often a green oak forest consists of mountain ash, hazel, bird cherry, hawthorn and thorns. But there are forests where the undergrowth is very rare or not at all. Then empty plants are occupied by low plants, but moss grows poorly in oak groves.
If the soil in such a forest is moist, then most likely the fern will grow there. After all, this plant loves shade, and the crown of the oak is able to provide it.
Dubrava for animals
What is oak grove for animals? Oak is very important for some of them. Since its seeds are a good source of protein and fat. Many birds and animals seek shelter in the oak forests in order to subsequently have unlimited access to acorns. It should be noted that for wild boars they are one of the main sources of food.
If you look deep into history, you can recall the fact that earlier farmers made their pens for pigs in oak groves. After all, the only way to feed these creatures without strong losses for the family. And only with the advent of potatoes were livestock transferred to a different diet.