Why do not oak tree acorns germinate in the winter?

Oak tree acorns do not germinate in the winter primarily due to cold temperatures and the presence of dormancy mechanisms. Acorns require a period of chilling, known as stratification, to break dormancy and prepare for germination. Additionally, winter conditions often lack the necessary moisture and warmth for germination, which typically occurs in the spring when temperatures rise and soil conditions become favorable. This timing helps ensure that the young seedlings can establish themselves during the growing season.