Cottonwood as firewood?

Is cottonwood a safe wood for burning in a fireplace?


Answer

Yes, Cottonwood (Populus deltoides)is safe to burn in a fireplace. It is in the same family as other poplars such as aspen and does not have a good heating value. That being said, it is perfectly safe to burn in a fireplace.

If you are looking for a species that will do a good job heating your house with a woodstove or fireplace insert, I do not recommend only using cottonwood. However, if you are only burning it in the fireplace and are simply doing it for the ambiance, it will work fine.

Of course, like all firewood, it needs to be properly seasoned before it will burn well. Just don't expect the same heat output that you would get from hardwoods such as oak or beech.

I hope this helps!

-Firewood Matt