What’s the point of growing Alder?

blue5000

I don’t have a lot of it, it was planted at the edge of conifers perhaps as shelter or for cosmetic reasons. It was also planted on some small really wet areas where perhaps birch or willow would have been better. But now the tallest ones are all leaning off into the conifers. I wonder should I cut them down before they damage the conifers?

What can the Alder wood be used for, I think it doesn’t rot in water so stakes or strainers in a bog might be an option, but need a bit more googling on this.

timfromtang

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058271988/what-s-the-point-of-growing-alder

A question that perhaps a forest owner should ask before planting any species?

whats the point of growing oak? cherry, lime, you name it.

As for the Alder,

it is a fast growing hardwood,

It tolerates wet soils and fixes nitrogen,

It is a pioneer species and therefore useful in conversion of land to forest.

bushcraft toothbrushes can be made from its twigs (high tannins clean teeth)

The bark can be used in leather tanning,

The timber is durable underwater and was used in crannóg construction,

The timber takes preservatives well, cuts and finishes nicely, and has a lovely red brown tones.

there do not seem to be established markets for this timber in Ireland, although there is research going on at Letterfrack.

In other parts of the world it is a popular material for hobby woodworkers, and used commercially in the frames of soft furnishings.

tim

blue5000

Thanks Tim, they are not too big yet, charcoal is another use for them too!

timfromtang

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119881590#Comment_119881590

I've made charcoal with Alder, It makes light charcoal that burns really evenly, ideal for BBQ, but for metallurgy or forging, less than ideal.

tim

DukeCaboom

I think if u plant it along a riverbank its great because its roots are so long and stops erosion.

Nosler

Back in the day alder charcoal was the best charcoal for making gunpowder...

I've planted a lot, it grows well, however it doesnt really have an economic value.

cavellaria

Another DAFM gem.

Apparently very useful in underwater restoration works....

blue5000

I suppose I could use it in a bog as a foundation for a road to get the good timber out🤔

timfromtang

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119935026#Comment_119935026

its more valuable for firewood than spruce pine or fir....

tim

drive it

Why isn't it used for stakes and strainers if it lasts in wet area's, as for the stuff that's going now you'd be lucky to get 3-5 years out of some stakes , and with them baning creosote stakes from next year there could be an opening

cavellaria

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119935026#Comment_119935026

Yes, and therow in 5 or 6 Forest Service Inspectors to pad it out.