Chapter 5Uses

One tree, many uses

Nearly every part of the tree has a use.

Timber

Light, stable boards for furniture, paneling, and specialty products. Short-rotation harvests often start around 6 to 10 years or later, depending on site, spacing, and log grade.

Musical instruments

Valued for resonance and low weight in guitar bodies and traditional instruments.

Surf and water sports

Light, strong, and slow to swell, which suits surfboards and paddleboards.

Animal feed

Leaves are high in protein and can be harvested and dried for feed.

Bioenergy

Branches and residue can be made into pellets and biomass fuel.

Biochar

Non-timber wood can be converted to biochar, which can improve soil water holding and aeration.

Carbon capture

Fast growth stores carbon in wood quickly. Some plantation projects may qualify for carbon programs, depending on each program's rules.

Honey

Early-spring flowers feed bees when little else is blooming.

Soil repair

Deep roots help stabilize slopes and eroded ground, and Paulownia has been studied for reclaiming damaged soils.

Agroforestry

While trees are young, grow shade-tolerant crops or herbs between the rows.

Ornamental

Large leaves and a showy spring bloom make a striking landscape tree.

Bio-based materials

Wood flour for composite panels, plus extracts from flowers and leaves.