I was wondering if any of you have ever worked with Japanese Red Maple? I might have access to a very, very large, old, and healthy tree that will have to unfortunately be removed for a construction project. It is the largest Jap. Red Maple I’ve ever seen in my life. The trunk is approximately 13-15 inches in diameter and is nice and straight up to 8 feet or so. It has to be at least 75 years old.
My question is, is this wood worth the trouble of jumping through the necessary hoops to get? I’d have to have it milled, but that shouldn’t be a problem. I can store it in a climate controlled area, but don’t have a kiln. Does that matter? I’ve never tried to cut, mill, and stock green wood before.
Thanks,
Curt
Replies
What a shame it would be to destroy such a specimen tree if it has any sort of visual appeal or history. Trees much larger than that have been moved and survived the ordeal. I would get in contact with the http://www.holdenarb.org Holden Arboretum in Kirtland OH. Somebody will want it for a display specimen and they may have an answer to that.
Work Safe, Count to 10 when your done for the day !!
Bruce S.
Ultimately, I agree with you guys. However, it will be up to the property owner. I think I'll nudge them to contact our local botanical gardens. They may be willing to cover the expense of moving the tree. Thanks for your help.
I would still contact the Holden Arboretum. They are well known both Nationally and Internationally. If you hit the owner with some documented value a treasure may be saved. "Some" trees need to be hugged.Work Safe, Count to 10 when your done for the day !!
Bruce S.
I would agree with Bruce on having the tree moved. The wood will probably be nondescript, just like regular maple but the tree if moved as a specimen would be worth in the neighborhood of $5000-$15000. I graft and grow japanese maples, trees that large are well over 100 years old.
Probably not what you wanted to hear but probably not worth all of the trouble for 8-10 boards 4-13 inches wide.
Lee
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled