Question
Hi Jim,

First off, great job with the answers. I learned a lot just scanning some of the previous questions.

My question is this...As I mentioned I live in Zone 6. My wife and I would like to plant an Oak tree in honor of our first son being born this year.

I would like to find a fairly fast growing oak that will produce acorns ASAP. I know Pin oaks grow fast but from what I gather they do not produce acorns. I have also looked into Sawtooth and Gobbler Sawtooth oaks but they are very hard to find in this area and I don't find the leaves very attractive. I am looking for a more traditional "oak" looking leaf like.

Do you have any recommendations for a fast growing oak that bears acorns relatively quickly and nice looking leaves? Thanks

PS- Can you recommend any on-line retailers if I can not find any of your suggestions locally?

Answer
I would try nuttall oak. It is similar to pin oak leaves but are more showier in the fall. For oak it is fairly fast grower. Some have produced acorns in limited supply as early as 5-7 years old. They reach maximum acorn production at about 20 years.
I have not used an on line nursery to buy trees so I can not recommend one. Your local nursery should be able to give you sources if they do not have the tree.