Heckuva difference. I wouldn't get too attached to those oaks. Mine don't like to have their roots submerged for long periods.
You were right Dave. That Oak did not make it. Funny thing is we have another Pin Oak (I had incorrectly called that one a water Oak) just SW of our house that is right at water level of a seasonal creek. Just looked at it today. The water has actually undercut the root ball and has water under the tree. The roots are all growing along the bank and into it, with no roots out in the water. I'm amazed the wind has not blown it over. It is about 30" in diameter and likely nearly as old as I am. It seems to be growing fine at waters edge.
Go figure. The ones we don't want to die do, and the ones we don't care about seem to do fine.
