{"id":2515,"date":"2023-09-22T08:39:20","date_gmt":"2023-09-22T08:39:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/?p=2515"},"modified":"2023-09-18T08:20:09","modified_gmt":"2023-09-18T08:20:09","slug":"is-wild-cherry-good-firewood","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Wild Cherry Good Firewood? A Comprehensive Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/wild-cherry.png\" alt=\"Wild cherry logs for firewood\" class=\"wp-image-2537\" srcset=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/wild-cherry.png 1024w, https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/wild-cherry-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/wild-cherry-768x576.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_62 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #000000;color:#000000\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Understanding_the_Characteristics_of_Wild_Cherry_Wood\" title=\"Understanding the Characteristics of Wild Cherry Wood\">Understanding the Characteristics of Wild Cherry Wood<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#The_Anatomy_of_Wild_Cherry_Trees\" title=\"The Anatomy of Wild Cherry Trees\">The Anatomy of Wild Cherry Trees<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#The_Properties_of_Wild_Cherry_Wood\" title=\"The Properties of Wild Cherry Wood\">The Properties of Wild Cherry Wood<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Evaluating_Wild_Cherry_as_Firewood\" title=\"Evaluating Wild Cherry as Firewood\">Evaluating Wild Cherry as Firewood<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Heat_Output_of_Wild_Cherry_Firewood\" title=\"Heat Output of Wild Cherry Firewood\">Heat Output of Wild Cherry Firewood<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Smoke_and_Spark_Production\" title=\"Smoke and Spark Production\">Smoke and Spark Production<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Preparing_Wild_Cherry_for_Firewood\" title=\"Preparing Wild Cherry for Firewood\">Preparing Wild Cherry for Firewood<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Best_Time_to_Cut_Wild_Cherry_for_Firewood\" title=\"Best Time to Cut Wild Cherry for Firewood\">Best Time to Cut Wild Cherry for Firewood<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Drying_and_Seasoning_Process\" title=\"Drying and Seasoning Process\">Drying and Seasoning Process<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Burning_Wild_Cherry_Firewood\" title=\"Burning Wild Cherry Firewood\">Burning Wild Cherry Firewood<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#How_to_Properly_Burn_Wild_Cherry_Firewood\" title=\"How to Properly Burn Wild Cherry Firewood\">How to Properly Burn Wild Cherry Firewood<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Safety_Precautions_When_Burning_Wild_Cherry\" title=\"Safety Precautions When Burning Wild Cherry\">Safety Precautions When Burning Wild Cherry<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Environmental_Impact_of_Using_Wild_Cherry_as_Firewood\" title=\"Environmental Impact of Using Wild Cherry as Firewood\">Environmental Impact of Using Wild Cherry as Firewood<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Sustainability_of_Wild_Cherry_Harvesting\" title=\"Sustainability of Wild Cherry Harvesting\">Sustainability of Wild Cherry Harvesting<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/is-wild-cherry-good-firewood\/#Emissions_and_Air_Quality_Concerns\" title=\"Emissions and Air Quality Concerns\">Emissions and Air Quality Concerns<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understanding_the_Characteristics_of_Wild_Cherry_Wood\"><\/span>Understanding the Characteristics of Wild Cherry Wood<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Anatomy_of_Wild_Cherry_Trees\"><\/span>The Anatomy of Wild Cherry Trees<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to firewood, it&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Properties_of_Wild_Cherry_Wood\"><\/span>The Properties of Wild Cherry Wood<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Evaluating_Wild_Cherry_as_Firewood\"><\/span>Evaluating Wild Cherry as Firewood<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Heat_Output_of_Wild_Cherry_Firewood\"><\/span>Heat Output of Wild Cherry Firewood<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Smoke_and_Spark_Production\"><\/span>Smoke and Spark Production<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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&#8217;t been properly dried and seasoned. To prevent any accidents, it&#8217;s essential to use a spark screen and keep a watchful eye on your fire while burning wild cherry wood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Preparing_Wild_Cherry_for_Firewood\"><\/span>Preparing Wild Cherry for Firewood<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_Time_to_Cut_Wild_Cherry_for_Firewood\"><\/span>Best Time to Cut Wild Cherry for Firewood<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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&#8217;s growth and health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Drying_and_Seasoning_Process\"><\/span>Drying and Seasoning Process<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Burning_Wild_Cherry_Firewood\"><\/span>Burning Wild Cherry Firewood<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Properly_Burn_Wild_Cherry_Firewood\"><\/span>How to Properly Burn Wild Cherry Firewood<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>To get the most out of your wild cherry firewood, it&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Safety_Precautions_When_Burning_Wild_Cherry\"><\/span>Safety Precautions When Burning Wild Cherry<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While wild cherry firewood is generally safe to use, it&#8217;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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Environmental_Impact_of_Using_Wild_Cherry_as_Firewood\"><\/span>Environmental Impact of Using Wild Cherry as Firewood<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"15\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sustainability_of_Wild_Cherry_Harvesting\"><\/span>Sustainability of Wild Cherry Harvesting<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"16\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Emissions_and_Air_Quality_Concerns\"><\/span>Emissions and Air Quality Concerns<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>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&#8217;s important to be mindful of the overall environmental impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>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.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>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 [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2537,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2515"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2515"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2515\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2549,"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2515\/revisions\/2549"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2537"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2515"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2515"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theyardable.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2515"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}