does crepe myrtle make good firewood

Does Crepe Myrtle Make Good Firewood? A Comprehensive Guide

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When it comes to selecting the right firewood for your home, many factors come into play. One tree that often sparks curiosity among homeowners and firewood enthusiasts is the crepe myrtle. Does crepe myrtle make good firewood? This question has been a topic of debate among those seeking efficient and sustainable heating solutions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deep into the characteristics of crepe myrtle as a potential firewood source, exploring its burning properties, heat output, and overall suitability for your fireplace or wood stove. By the end of this article, you’ll have a thorough understanding of whether crepe myrtle can meet your firewood needs and how it compares to other popular options.

Understanding Crepe Myrtle

Before we dive into the firewood potential of crepe myrtle, it’s essential to understand the tree itself. Crepe myrtle, scientifically known as Lagerstroemia, is a popular ornamental tree known for its vibrant flowers and attractive bark. Native to parts of Asia and Australia, it has become a common sight in many regions, particularly in the southern United States.

Characteristics of Crepe Myrtle

Crepe myrtle trees are known for their:

  1. Colorful blooms: The trees produce clusters of crinkled flowers in various shades, including pink, purple, red, and white.
  2. Attractive bark: Many varieties have smooth, peeling bark that adds winter interest to landscapes.
  3. Moderate size: Most crepe myrtles grow to be small to medium-sized trees, typically reaching heights of 15-30 feet.
  4. Adaptability: They thrive in a wide range of soil conditions and are relatively drought-tolerant once established.

Wood Properties of Crepe Myrtle

To assess its potential as firewood, we need to examine the wood properties of crepe myrtle:

  1. Density: Crepe myrtle wood is generally considered to be of medium density.
  2. Hardness: It falls into the medium-hard category on the Janka hardness scale.
  3. Grain: The wood has a straight to slightly wavy grain pattern.
  4. Color: The heartwood is typically light brown to reddish-brown, while the sapwood is pale yellow to white.

These properties play a crucial role in determining how well crepe myrtle performs as firewood.

Crepe Myrtle as Firewood: Pros and Cons

Now that we have a basic understanding of crepe myrtle, let’s explore its advantages and disadvantages as a firewood source.

Pros of Using Crepe Myrtle as Firewood

  1. Availability: In regions where crepe myrtle is common, it can be an easily accessible source of firewood.
  2. Moderate heat output: While not the hottest-burning wood, crepe myrtle can provide a decent amount of heat.
  3. Pleasant aroma: When burned, crepe myrtle wood tends to produce a mild, pleasant scent.
  4. Low smoke production: Properly seasoned crepe myrtle generally burns with relatively low smoke output.
  5. Aesthetic value: The attractive grain pattern can make it appealing for decorative firewood displays.

Cons of Using Crepe Myrtle as Firewood

  1. Small size: The typically small diameter of crepe myrtle logs means more pieces are needed to maintain a fire.
  2. Splitting difficulty: The wood can be somewhat challenging to split, especially when it comes from the twisted branches.
  3. Moderate burn time: Compared to denser hardwoods, crepe myrtle may not provide as long-lasting a fire.
  4. Limited availability in some areas: In regions where crepe myrtle isn’t common, it may be difficult to source as firewood.
  5. Potential for sparking: Some users report that crepe myrtle can produce more sparks than other hardwoods.

Heat Output and Efficiency

One of the most critical factors in determining good firewood is its heat output. Let’s examine how crepe myrtle performs in this aspect.

BTU Rating

The British Thermal Unit (BTU) is a measure of heat output. While specific BTU ratings for crepe myrtle can vary depending on the exact species and growing conditions, it generally falls in the medium range. Here’s a comparison table to give you an idea of how crepe myrtle stacks up against other common firewood types:

Wood Type BTU per Cord (million)
Osage Orange 32.9
Hickory 27.7
White Oak 25.7
Sugar Maple 24.0
Red Oak 24.0
Crepe Myrtle 20.0-22.0 (estimated)
Cherry 20.4
Douglas Fir 20.0
Silver Maple 18.9
Eastern White Pine 14.3

As you can see, crepe myrtle falls somewhere in the middle of the spectrum, offering more heat than softwoods like pine but less than premium hardwoods like oak or hickory.

Burning Efficiency

The efficiency of firewood is not just about its BTU rating. Other factors come into play, such as:

  1. Moisture content: Properly seasoned crepe myrtle with low moisture content will burn more efficiently.
  2. Density: The medium density of crepe myrtle allows for a steady burn.
  3. Resin content: Crepe myrtle has relatively low resin content, which contributes to cleaner burning.
  4. Ash production: It produces a moderate amount of ash, which is neither excessive nor minimal.

These factors combine to make crepe myrtle a reasonably efficient firewood option, especially when properly prepared and used.

Preparing Crepe Myrtle for Firewood

To get the best results from crepe myrtle as firewood, proper preparation is key. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing crepe myrtle for use in your fireplace or wood stove.

Harvesting

  1. Timing: The best time to harvest crepe myrtle for firewood is during its dormant season, typically late fall or winter.
  2. Tools: Use a sharp chainsaw or handsaw to cut the tree into manageable sections.
  3. Safety: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, eye protection, and ear protection when harvesting.

Splitting

  1. Allow for drying: Let the cut sections dry for a few weeks before splitting to make the process easier.
  2. Use proper tools: A maul or splitting axe works well for most crepe myrtle logs.
  3. Technique: Start from the edges and work your way in, as the center can be more challenging to split.

Seasoning

Proper seasoning is crucial for any firewood, including crepe myrtle:

  1. Stack properly: Create a well-ventilated stack off the ground to allow air circulation.
  2. Cover the top: Protect the wood from rain and snow, but leave the sides open for airflow.
  3. Time: Allow at least 6-12 months for proper seasoning. Crepe myrtle may require closer to 12 months due to its density.
  4. Check moisture content: Use a moisture meter to ensure the wood has reached a moisture content of 20% or less before burning.

By following these preparation steps, you can maximize the efficiency and performance of crepe myrtle as firewood.

Best Practices for Burning Crepe Myrtle

To get the most out of crepe myrtle as firewood, it’s important to follow some best practices. These tips will help you maximize heat output, minimize smoke, and ensure a safe and enjoyable fire.

Mixing with Other Woods

While crepe myrtle can be used on its own, many experienced firewood users recommend mixing it with other types of wood for optimal results:

  1. Combine with denser hardwoods: Mix crepe myrtle with oak or hickory to increase overall heat output and burn time.
  2. Use as kindling: The smaller branches of crepe myrtle can serve as excellent kindling to start fires with larger, denser logs.
  3. Layer different woods: Start with crepe myrtle for easy ignition, then add denser woods as the fire establishes.

Optimal Burning Conditions

To ensure the best burn from your crepe myrtle firewood:

  1. Ensure proper airflow: Arrange logs with enough space between them to allow for good air circulation.
  2. Maintain a hot fire: Keep the fire burning hot to maximize efficiency and minimize creosote buildup.
  3. Use a wood stove or fireplace insert: These tend to burn wood more efficiently than open fireplaces.
  4. Monitor and adjust: Pay attention to how the crepe myrtle burns in your specific setup and adjust your fire management accordingly.

Environmental Considerations

When considering any type of firewood, it’s important to take environmental factors into account. Let’s explore the ecological impact of using crepe myrtle as firewood.

Sustainability

Crepe myrtle can be a sustainable firewood option under certain circumstances:

  1. Fast growth: Crepe myrtles grow relatively quickly, making them a renewable resource when managed properly.
  2. Pruning waste: Using branches from regular pruning as firewood can be an eco-friendly practice.
  3. Invasive potential: In some areas, crepe myrtle may be considered invasive. Using it as firewood can help control its spread.

Carbon Footprint

When comparing the carbon footprint of crepe myrtle firewood to other heating options:

  1. Carbon neutral: Like all wood, crepe myrtle is considered carbon neutral when burned, as it only releases the carbon it absorbed during growth.
  2. Local sourcing: Using locally sourced crepe myrtle reduces transportation emissions compared to imported fuels.
  3. Efficiency considerations: The moderate heat output of crepe myrtle means more may need to be burned to achieve the same heat as denser woods, potentially increasing overall emissions.

Air Quality Impact

The impact of burning crepe myrtle on air quality is an important consideration:

  1. Low smoke production: Properly seasoned crepe myrtle generally produces less smoke than some other woods.
  2. Particulate matter: Like all wood burning, it does release some particulate matter, which can affect air quality.
  3. Creosote buildup: The moderate resin content in crepe myrtle results in less creosote buildup compared to some softwoods, but regular chimney cleaning is still essential.

Comparing Crepe Myrtle to Other Firewood Options

To fully understand the value of crepe myrtle as firewood, it’s helpful to compare it to other common options. Here’s a detailed comparison:

Hardwoods

  1. Oak:
    • Higher heat output (25.7 million BTU/cord for white oak)
    • Longer burn time
    • More difficult to ignite
    • Often more expensive
  2. Maple:
    • Similar heat output to crepe myrtle (24.0 million BTU/cord for sugar maple)
    • Easy to split
    • Pleasant aroma when burned
  3. Hickory:
    • Higher heat output (27.7 million BTU/cord)
    • Long burn time
    • Can be difficult to split

Softwoods

  1. Pine:
    • Lower heat output (14.3-21.1 million BTU/cord depending on species)
    • Burns quickly
    • Easy to ignite
    • Higher resin content can lead to more creosote buildup
  2. Cedar:
    • Lower heat output (19.0 million BTU/cord)
    • Pleasant aroma
    • Tends to spark more than crepe myrtle

Fruit Woods

  1. Apple:
    • Moderate heat output (21.8 million BTU/cord)
    • Pleasant aroma
    • Often more expensive due to culinary demand
  2. Cherry:
    • Similar heat output to crepe myrtle (20.4 million BTU/cord)
    • Attractive flames
    • Pleasant aroma

This comparison shows that while crepe myrtle may not be the top performer in terms of heat output, it offers a balanced set of characteristics that make it a viable option for many firewood users.

Alternative Uses for Crepe Myrtle Wood

While our focus has been on crepe myrtle as firewood, it’s worth noting that the wood has other valuable uses:

  1. Woodworking: The attractive grain and color make it suitable for small woodworking projects.
  2. Turning: Crepe myrtle is popular among wood turners for creating bowls and other decorative items.
  3. Smoking meat: Some barbecue enthusiasts use crepe myrtle chips or chunks for smoking, as it imparts a mild, sweet flavor.
  4. Mulch: Chipped crepe myrtle can be used as an attractive and effective garden mulch.

Understanding these alternative uses can help you make the most of any crepe myrtle wood you may have access to.

FAQS

How long does it take to season crepe myrtle firewood?

Crepe myrtle typically requires 6-12 months of seasoning time. Due to its medium density, it may need closer to the full year to reach optimal moisture content for burning.

Can I burn freshly cut crepe myrtle?

It’s not recommended to burn freshly cut crepe myrtle. Unseasoned wood contains high moisture content, which leads to inefficient burning, excessive smoke, and increased creosote buildup in your chimney.

Is crepe myrtle firewood suitable for overnight burning?

While crepe myrtle can provide a decent fire, it may not be the best choice for overnight burning due to its moderate density and burn time. For long-lasting overnight fires, denser hardwoods like oak or hickory are generally preferred.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while crepe myrtle may not be the top-tier firewood choice, it offers a balanced set of characteristics that make it a viable option for many users. Its moderate heat output, pleasant aroma, and relatively low smoke production when properly seasoned are notable advantages. In areas where crepe myrtle is abundant, it can be a convenient and sustainable choice for supplemental heating. The suitability of crepe myrtle as firewood ultimately depends on your specific needs, local availability, and personal preferences. By understanding its properties and following best practices for preparation and burning, you can effectively use crepe myrtle to create warm, inviting fires in your home.

External Resources:
  1. U.S. Forest Service – Firewood Facts: https://www.fs.usda.gov/learn/nature-science/forest-products
  2. Cooperative Extension System – Selecting and Storing Firewood: https://extension.psu.edu/selecting-and-storing-firewood

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