RED CEDAR

The red cedar is a valuable tree that grows in nearly any environment but seems to thrive on barren soil. When small, it is easy to transplant and a row of closely planted cedars provides an excellent windbreak. The close-branched tree provides good cover and protection for birds against the chilly blasts of winter. The blue berries that appear on mature trees are consumed by many species of birds.

The thin bark of the cedar shreds easily; woodsmen prize it for tinder to start a fire. Many birds use it for nesting material.

The outer or softwood of red cedar is white, but the heart wood is very red; the combination provides a striking effect when incorporated into a piece of furniture. The wood is highly aromatic; and therefore is used for cedar chests, closets and other interior work. It provides excellent protection against moths and other insects when utilized in this manner.

At one time, red cedar was popular at Christmas time when country families could go out and cut their own tree, but tree marketing has just about eliminated this practice.

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