Acorns Everywhere

Patch spoke with extension forester of the University of Florida, Rob Northorp, and asked if there is any truth to seeing more acorns this year than in the past.

According to Northorp, we are not the "only ones that are curious."  He has received several calls regarding this same question.

There is no hard data saying that this year live oaks have actually produced more acorns than in years past. However, there is a study from 1969-96 of foresters finding a variance in production over a two- to three- year period. 

Why do they vary? Some research points to "favorable temperatures and precipitation," says Northorp. Forestry experts are trying to tie the years of heavy production to actual climate conditions, but no firm data has been uncovered. 

Just like the flowers in our gardens and the fruit we crop, the right temperatures, precipitation and caring can yield a more favorable product.

As for now, just have some fun creating a project with the kids using the acorns in your yard.