Blog
Western Larch: A Guide to Identification, Ecology, and Uses
Western larch, Larix occidentalis, is a large deciduous conifer native to the inland Pacific Northwest. This guide explains its identification, range, ecology, fire adaptations, wood properties, and differences from similar larches.
Western Yellow Pine: Identification, Range, Uses, and Growing Guide
Western yellow pine is a historical name for ponderosa pine (*Pinus ponderosa*), a large evergreen native to western North America. This guide covers its aliases, identification, range, ecology, cultivation, look-alikes, risks, and wood uses.
Red Fir: Identification, Range, Ecology, and Uses of California Red Fir
Red fir, or California red fir, is a high-elevation true fir native to California and southwestern Oregon. This guide explains its identification, taxonomy, habitat, ecology, growth, threats, and wood uses.
Sand Pine (Pinus clausa): Identification and Ecology Guide
Sand pine is a native Florida conifer adapted to deep, dry, nutrient-poor sands. This guide explains how to identify Pinus clausa, distinguish its varieties, understand its ecology, and evaluate its landscape and wood uses.
Juniper Wood Guide: Properties, Uses, Firewood and Buying
This guide explains juniper wood species, appearance, properties, durability, uses, and firewood performance. Learn how to compare western and alligator juniper, avoid common defects, and buy the right wood for your project.
Pinus Radiata Guide: Identification, Wood and Uses
Pinus radiata, also called radiata pine or Monterey pine, is an endangered coastal conifer and a globally important plantation softwood. This guide covers its identification, distribution, forestry, wood properties, plywood, durability, uses, and environmental impacts.
Soft Wood: The Ultimate Guide to Types, Properties, and Uses
This definitive soft wood guide explains the botanical definition of softwood, its properties, and how it differs from hardwood. Explore 20 examples, common uses, lumber grades, treatments, buying factors, and project-selection guidance.
Subalpine Fir Tree Guide: Identification, Habitat and Ecology
This guide explains how to identify the subalpine fir tree and understand its taxonomy, range, habitat and ecological role. It also covers reproduction, similar conifers, fire, threats, human uses and landscape suitability.
Sequoia Wood: Complete Guide to Species, Uses, and Lumber
Sequoia wood usually refers to coast redwood lumber from Sequoia sempervirens, a lightweight and naturally durable softwood. This guide explains its properties, uses, grades, buying considerations, and differences from Giant Sequoia.
Wood Hardness Scale: What the Janka Numbers Really Mean
A clear, short guide to the wood hardness scale. See top Janka ratings, what they mean for floors and furniture, and simple tips for choosing wood.
