The red dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) in particular is a popular ornamental tree for the garden in Germany because of its reddish autumn color. The horn bush is not only visually very appealing. The resulting dogwood wood can be used for different purposes.
What uses are there for dogwood wood?
There are various uses for the wood of the dogwood. It can be used for makingtool handlesand forturningposts, for example for stair railings. In the past, the wood was used to makedoor bolts - hence the name dogwood.
What can be made from the small branches?
In addition to the wood of the trunk, the small branches of the dogwood can also be used. The branches were often used forweaving baskets until the 18th century. And today handcrafted baskets are still made from this wood.
Tip
If you have to cut off parts of the he althy wood due to a fungal disease or generally do a radical pruning, you can use the resulting kindling and perhaps find a new hobby with basket weaving.
What properties does dogwood have?
The wood of the dogwood isvery hardandtoughThis makes it ideal for objects such as door bolts that are frequently touched. Damage such as small scratches or nicks are rare. A special feature among the various dogwoods is the cornelian cherry tree with its particularly large flowers. This wood is so compact that it doesn't float on top of the water, but sinks to the bottom.
Is dogwood wood poisonous?
The wood of the dogwood itself islowly toxicHowever, no symptoms of poisoning can occur when touched or processed. If you like, you can still wear gardening gloves when planting and caring for the horn bush.
Only consuming large quantities of leaves, bark or roots can lead to slight symptoms of poisoning. These things are by no means suitable as food for livestock and pets. The fruits of the cornelian cherry are also often considered poisonous. These can be eaten safely when cooked, but are inedible raw.
Is dogwood wood also used for furniture construction?
Due to its relatively narrow diameter, the wood of the deciduous red dogwood, which delights in autumn with its blood-red leavesis not used for furniture making.
How long should dogwood wood be stored before processing?
So that the dogwood wood is dry enough to be used for wood turning, a minimum storage period oftwo to three monthsis recommended. The bark can be removed before or after drying; the wood should not be sealed. In some cases it can happen that the wood turns during drying and is then no longer usable for the originally planned use - a peculiarity of dogwood wood.
Tip
Also popular with archers
In addition to the above-mentioned uses, bow makers also like to use dogwood wood to make particularly individual pieces.
