Wild cherry, also known as black cherry or Prunus serotina, is a hardwood species that is commonly found in forests throughout North America. It is known for its beautiful reddish-brown color and fine-grained texture, making it a popular choice for furniture and cabinetry.
But how does this wood perform when used as firewood? In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the characteristics of wild cherry wood, evaluate its suitability as firewood, discuss preparation techniques, and explore its environmental impact.
Understanding the Characteristics of Wild Cherry Wood
The Anatomy of Wild Cherry Trees
Wild cherry trees can reach heights of up to 80 feet and have a diameter of about 2 to 3 feet. They are known for their distinctive bark, which starts off smooth and turns into a scaly, dark gray texture as the tree matures. The leaves of wild cherry trees are elongated and have serrated edges, providing a lush green canopy during the warmer months. These trees also produce beautiful white flowers in the spring, which later transform into small, dark red cherries.
When it comes to firewood, it’s important to note that the trunk of a wild cherry tree contains most of the usable wood, while the branches and foliage are less suitable for burning.
The Properties of Wild Cherry Wood
Wild cherry wood boasts several desirable properties that make it a valuable material for various purposes. It is moderately heavy, with a density of around 37 pounds per cubic foot when air-dried. This density contributes to its excellent heat production and slow-burning capabilities, making it a great firewood option.
Furthermore, wild cherry wood has a high BTU (British Thermal Unit) output, which refers to the amount of heat released when the wood is burned. It provides steady and long-lasting heat, making it ideal for heating purposes during those chilly winter nights.
Evaluating Wild Cherry as Firewood
Heat Output of Wild Cherry Firewood
As mentioned earlier, wild cherry wood has a high heat output. It can generate approximately 26 million BTUs per cord. This high BTU value ensures that your fireplace or wood-burning stove will keep you warm and cozy throughout the cold season.
It’s worth noting that while wild cherry provides abundant heat, it may not be the best choice for small or poorly insulated spaces. Its powerful heat output can lead to the room becoming excessively hot, making temperature regulation difficult.
Smoke and Spark Production
When it comes to smoke production, wild cherry wood falls somewhere between hardwoods like oak and softwoods like pine. While it does produce some smoke, it is relatively minimal compared to softwoods, making it a suitable choice for indoor use.
However, one thing to be aware of is the potential for spark production. Wild cherry wood has a moderate propensity for popping and sparking, especially if it hasn’t been properly dried and seasoned. To prevent any accidents, it’s essential to use a spark screen and keep a watchful eye on your fire while burning wild cherry wood.
Preparing Wild Cherry for Firewood
Best Time to Cut Wild Cherry for Firewood
The best time to cut wild cherry for firewood is during late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant. At this time, the sap content is lower, resulting in wood that is easier to split and dry. Additionally, cutting during the dormant season minimizes the impact on the tree’s growth and health.
Drying and Seasoning Process
After cutting the wild cherry wood, it is crucial to allow it to dry and season properly. This process typically takes about 6 to 12 months, depending on the thickness of the wood. It is recommended to stack the wood in a well-ventilated area, preferably off the ground, to prevent moisture buildup.
Properly seasoned wild cherry firewood should have a moisture content of around 20%. This ensures optimal combustion and reduces smoke production. To determine if the wood is ready for burning, you can use a moisture meter or simply inspect the wood for cracks and a grayish color.
Burning Wild Cherry Firewood
How to Properly Burn Wild Cherry Firewood
To get the most out of your wild cherry firewood, it’s important to follow a few burning guidelines. Start by arranging the wood in a well-ventilated firebox or fireplace, avoiding overcrowding to allow for proper airflow. Use kindling or fire starters to ignite the fire, as wild cherry may require a bit of assistance to catch fire due to its density.
Once the fire is going, maintain a moderate burn rate by adding wood gradually. Wild cherry wood burns best when it has a sufficient source of oxygen. Avoid closing the damper too tightly, as this can lead to incomplete combustion and increased smoke production.
Safety Precautions When Burning Wild Cherry
While wild cherry firewood is generally safe to use, it’s important to exercise caution when handling and burning it. Always use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from escaping. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are properly functioning.
Additionally, never leave a fire unattended and ensure that the ashes are completely extinguished before disposing of them. Remember, practicing fire safety is essential to protect your home and loved ones.
Environmental Impact of Using Wild Cherry as Firewood
Sustainability of Wild Cherry Harvesting
When using wild cherry as firewood, it is essential to consider its sustainability. The demand for wild cherry wood has led to a decline in its population in some regions. To ensure the long-term viability of this resource, it is important to practice responsible harvesting.
Harvesting wild cherry should be done selectively, taking into account the age and condition of the tree. This allows younger trees to mature and reach their full potential, ensuring a sustainable supply of wild cherry wood for future generations.
Emissions and Air Quality Concerns
Like any wood-burning activity, using wild cherry as firewood does result in emissions. These emissions include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While wood burning is often considered carbon neutral because trees naturally absorb carbon dioxide during their growth, it’s important to be mindful of the overall environmental impact.
To minimize emissions and air quality concerns, use well-seasoned wild cherry firewood, as this ensures more efficient combustion and reduces the release of pollutants. Additionally, consider using a high-efficiency wood-burning stove or fireplace insert, which can help optimize combustion and reduce emissions.
Ultimately, when evaluating wild cherry as firewood, it offers many benefits, including high heat output, beautiful aesthetics, and sustainable harvesting practices. By understanding its characteristics, proper preparation, and safe burning techniques, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of wild cherry firewood while minimizing its impact on the environment.
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I am the guy behind Theyardable.com. I grew up on a homestead and I am here to share the knowledge I have and things I learn while living in the countryside.
