Selecting the right firewood for your wood-burning stove is essential to ensure efficient heating and minimal maintenance. One type of firewood that often comes into question is boxelder. In this article, we will discuss the characteristics of boxelder as firewood and whether it’s a suitable choice for your wood stove.
Characteristics of Boxelder
Boxelder (Acer negundo), sometimes referred to as ash-leaved maple, is a deciduous tree native to North America. It’s known for its rapid growth and can be found in a wide range of environments. Before deciding whether boxelder is suitable for your wood stove, it’s important to understand its characteristics:
Moisture Content: Boxelder, like many other hardwoods, should be seasoned or dried properly before burning. Freshly cut boxelder has a high moisture content, which can lead to inefficient and smoky fires. It’s crucial to allow boxelder to dry for at least six months to achieve a moisture content of around 20%.
Density: Compared to popular hardwoods like oak and maple, boxelder has a lower density. This means that it can ignite and burn relatively quickly, making it an ideal choice for kindling and getting your fire started. However, it may not provide long-lasting, sustained heat.
Heat Output: Boxelder burns relatively hot but may not produce the same long-lasting coals as denser hardwoods. If you’re looking for a quick burst of heat, it can be a suitable choice.
Burn Rate: Due to its lower density, boxelder tends to burn faster, requiring more frequent reloading in your wood stove.
Resin and Creosote: Boxelder produces minimal creosote buildup, which is a good thing for your chimney’s health. However, it may not leave behind as much ash, which can be used for composting or garden use.
Sustainability: Boxelder is considered a weed tree in some regions and can spread aggressively. Using it for firewood can help manage its population.
When to Use Boxelder as Firewood
Boxelder can be a good choice for firewood in certain situations:
Kindling: Its quick-burning nature makes boxelder ideal for starting your fire. You can use it as kindling to ignite denser hardwoods more easily.
Emergency or Quick Heat: If you need a burst of heat in a hurry, boxelder can provide a quick solution. It’s also useful in mild weather when a short, hot fire is sufficient.
Mixed Use: Many experienced wood stove users blend different types of firewood to balance burn rates and heat output. Boxelder can be part of this mix, especially when paired with denser hardwoods.
When to Avoid Boxelder as Firewood
Boxelder may not be the best choice for your wood stove in the following scenarios:
Long-Lasting Heat: If you want a firewood that will keep your wood stove burning steadily for hours without frequent reloading, denser hardwoods like oak or hickory are better options.
Efficiency: To get the most heat for your money, you’ll want wood with higher density and lower moisture content.
Creosote Buildup: If creosote buildup in your chimney is a concern, boxelder is a safer choice than some other woods, but still, regular cleaning is essential.
Conclusion
In summary, boxelder can be a suitable option for your wood stove, especially as kindling or for quick bursts of heat. However, it may not provide the sustained, efficient burn that denser hardwoods offer. It’s crucial to properly season boxelder to reduce its moisture content and ensure a cleaner, more efficient burn.
Remember that the choice of firewood depends on your specific needs, local availability, and personal preferences. By understanding the characteristics of boxelder and its strengths and limitations, you can make an informed decision on whether it’s the right firewood for your wood stove.