How do you know if an acorn is dead or alive?

To determine if an acorn is dead or alive, you can perform a simple float test. Place the acorn in a bowl of water; if it sinks, it's likely viable and alive, while a floating acorn is usually dead or dried out. Additionally, you can check for signs of mold or a shriveled appearance, which indicates it may be dead. Lastly, if you crack open the acorn and find a firm, plump seed inside, it is alive; if it’s shriveled or discolored, it’s likely dead.