Alright... not exactly sure how to do photos, but here is a link.

Here is a link that might be useful: The tree sprouts in question.

Quit worrying so much and enjoy them!

Do I assume you have their permanent place picked out?

If so plant them early this fall, place some kind of wire cage around them, and water when needed. Should be free range in a year or so.

I use tomato cages and wire fences around my little fellas.

Neat project BTW.

Set them outside in a semi-shady area. Gradually introduce them to more light (over the next three weeks). Be sure to keep them properly watered (you may need to water once per day, check actual soil moisture through drainage holes). Once they are hardened off, I'd go ahead and plant them unless a significant amount of taproot had to be removed. If significant tap-root pruning needs to be done, you could wait until early fall, when it starts cooling down just a bit.

Here is a link that might be useful: Planting a Tree or Shrub

Thanks.

1) Regarding planting them vs. keeping them in the containers - especially keeping them in the containers until fall, do I need to be worried about the roots crowding and the taproot in particular not being able to extend far enough down? Again, their planted in about 9 inches of good soil in the containers.

I was of the understanding that the tap root will keep shooting down a couple of feet, at least.

Also the sun is a bit of a worry, it is going to be hot and sunny here in Nashville this summer.

2) What is "hardening off?"

3) Finally, the acorn on a couple of these is sitting right at soil level - mostly exposed. And the acorn is totally buried on a couple of them. Do I need to cover or uncover the acorns to ensure optimal growth?

Following up here. I still need help. I'm worried about the soil in the pots not being deep enough.

Please help.

Thanks