suggestions on type of tree to plant

[will2020]

Hi,

 

As per title, suggestions on type of tree to plant. I'm looking plant around 2 acres of wet ground for future firewood. Some folk have suggested Ash, is this the best option?

[likeitorlumpit]

Permanently wet?

[hardtop110]

Alder would be a good choice - Tree2mydoor UK - Alder Tree, Alnus glutinosa, Tree Information

[will2020]

Permanently wet?

 

Yes, currently has grass growing but too wet to drive a tractor through even in July/August

[Farmer Tom]

Agree Alder would be a good choice. It's the traditional tree for wet ground. Also grows quite fast. Willow should also do well.

Neither could be considered a great firewood, too fast-growing and hence too light when dry. burn away too fast/need reloading too often.

 

Ash might still do in these conditions. You could try a mixture and crop the best as they get to the right size, or use the faster growing to tide you over 'til the good stuff's ready.

 

BTW, You didn't mention how far into the future you want the firewood; remember the old addage about 'planting trees for your grandchildren'. I'm in my fifties, so giving up on planting anything slower growing than Ash.

[will2020]

BTW, You didn't mention how far into the future you want the firewood; remember the old addage about 'planting trees for your grandchildren'. I'm in my fifties, so giving up on planting anything slower growing than Ash.

 

I would like to start harvesting in say 15-20 years

[armybloke]

I know this sounds a bit anal but soil type will hinder or help growth too so please consider that in your planning. I agree with above Alder/Willow. Poplar and Birch is also tollerant of a wide range of soils from acidic to alkaline and is a pioneer species. Regen will be easy too! Can't comment on suitability for fiewood though sorry

[ScottF]

Alder makes superlative charcoal

[hardtop110]

Agree Alder would be a good choice. It's the traditional tree for wet ground. Also grows quite fast. Willow should also do well.

Neither could be considered a great firewood, too fast-growing and hence too light when dry. burn away too fast/need reloading too often.

 

Alder is an excellent firewood. Easy to split when green, seasons quickly and has one of the highest calorific values of any wood - that's why they used it for the charcoal for gunpowder.

 

I agree about growing a mix though. I'd add in some birch and some softwood.

[log dog]

how about swamp cypress ? any good..