How to Burn Evergreen Trees as Firewood

- Some state laws prohibit burning evergreen trees as firewood. Check with your local authorities to ensure it is permissible in your area.

- Smoke from evergreen trees may cause allergic reactions in some people, so use caution when burning them as firewood.

1. Season the Wood

- Cut the evergreen tree into rounds or splits before the sap rises in the spring.

- Stack the wood outdoors in a covered area, off the ground, and allow it to season for at least 12 months.

- Cover the woodpile to protect it from rain and snow, which can slow the drying process.

- Ensure the wood has a moisture content of 20% or less before burning it.

2. Choose the Right Firewood

- Select well-seasoned, small-diameter branches of evergreen trees for burning as firewood.

- Pine, spruce, and fir trees are commonly used as firewood.

- Avoid burning young, green evergreen branches, as they produce excessive smoke and contain higher levels of moisture.

- Do not burn evergreen trees with needles still attached, as these can create sparks and increased fire risk.

3. Use the Appropriate Wood-Burning Appliance

- Evergreen wood burns hot and fast, so it is essential to use the right wood-burning appliance.

- Use a wood stove or fireplace that is EPA-certified and approved for burning evergreen firewood.

- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the safe and efficient use of your wood-burning appliance.

4. Build the Fire

- Start with a small fire using kindling and dry, seasoned hardwood or softwood.

- Add evergreen firewood gradually to the fire, building it up a little at a time.

- Avoid overloading the fire with too much evergreen firewood, as this can cause the fire to burn too hot and lead to creosote buildup in your chimney.

5. Maintain the Fire

- Keep the fire burning at a moderate temperature, avoiding long, hot burns that can produce excessive smoke.

- Use a fire poker or tongs to reposition evergreen wood in the fire as needed to ensure it burns evenly.

- Avoid using accelerants such as gasoline or kerosene to start the fire, as they can be dangerous and release toxic fumes.

6. Practice Safety

- Always follow safe fire-burning practices when using evergreen firewood.

- Never leave the fire unattended, and keep children and pets away from the burning area.

- Use a fire extinguisher if necessary and call the fire department in case of an emergency.