If a lot of cutting waste is produced when clearing a thuja hedge, the gardener is faced with the question of how best to dispose of the arborvitae. In addition to composting and disposing of it at local collection points, Thuja can also be burned.
Can you burn thuja hedges?
It is permitted to burn thuja as long as it is permitted in the community and local regulations are followed. The toxins contained in thuja decompose when burned and are not dangerous. Make sure the wood has been seasoned for at least two years before burning it in the fireplace or stove.
Is it allowed to burn thuja?
Basically, you can burn thuja if it is even allowed in the community. Some communities allow you to start a fire for yard waste once a month.
But keep in mind that the combustion process produces a lot of smoke, especially if the tree of life has only recently been felled. This can lead to problems with the neighbors.
- Thuja can be burned
- observe local regulations!
- Toxins decompose
- Burning in the oven or fireplace possible
- burn only seasoned wood in the oven
Burn thuja despite toxins?
Since thuja contains many toxins, many gardeners fear that they will be released when burned. This fear is unfounded.
The toxins are essential oils that are released by the heat and are thereby eliminated.
There is only a risk of poisoning from arborvitae if you eat parts of the plant.
Burn the tree of life in the fireplace or oven
Thuja is definitely suitable as wood for fireplaces and stoves. However, you may only burn the cuttings after they have been stored for at least two years. This removes moisture from the wood and the fireplace or stove does not smoke as much.
Many fireplace owners rave about the pleasant scent that is released when the thuja is burned. It is caused by the escape of essential oils.
Don't burn thuja, but compost it?
Despite its toxicity, you can also put Thuja in the compost. To do this, you should chop up the trees first.
Only Thujen residues that are free of diseases and pests are composted. Otherwise you will spread the pathogens throughout the garden.
Mix the thuja compost with other garden waste. Then it rots much faster and the resulting humus is not too acidic. You can use it for all garden plants that like a slightly acidic garden soil.
Tip
In many places Easter bonfires are held in spring. You can deliver the leftovers there after consultation with the organizers. It is also possible to take the Tree of Life waste to the local collection point for green waste.
