The timing of oak tree flowering is a crucial phenological event, signifying the start of the reproductive cycle for these ecologically and economically important trees. This process involves the emergence of catkins, which are the pollen-bearing male flowers, and the less conspicuous female flowers that will eventually develop into acorns.
Understanding the factors that influence the period of floral development is vital for predicting acorn crops, managing oak woodlands, and assessing the potential impacts of climate change on forest ecosystems. Historical records and ongoing observations provide valuable data for tracking shifts in flowering times and correlating them with environmental variables.