There’s nothing quite like the smell of a crackling fire to get you in the winter spirit. So if you’re interested in something new to add to your fireplace this year, why not try pecan firewood?
Pecan burns white-hot, produces minimal smoke, and mixes well with aromatic firewood like apple and cherry.
For this post, we’re discussing what you need to know about using pecan firewood.
We’ll cover everything from sourcing it to burning it safely. So read on, and get ready to cozy up by the fire!
Characteristics Of Pecan Wood
Pecan trees are the loftiest of the hickory trees and produce a delicious nut of the same name.
While initially native to central and southern North America, the tree is grown commercially in many parts of the world.
The pecan tree can grow to be quite large, reaching a height of over 100 feet.
The wood comes in beautiful, rich colors ranging from light brown to deep red-brown and often contains dark streaks or stripes.
It is often used in furniture, cabinets, and flooring because of its durability and striking appearance.
In addition to its beauty, pecan wood is also strong, stiff, and shock-resistant. In fact, it’s one of the hardest North American woods available.
This makes it ideal for high-traffic areas or areas that are subject to wear and tear.
Pecan wood is also resistant to rot and insect damage, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Is Pecan a Hardwood or Softwood?
The pecan tree is a well-known species of hickory, and like all hickories, it’s classified as hardwood.
This means that it is dense and heavy, ideal for firewood use. Pecan wood has a lower density than true hickories.
However, it’s still quite hard, so it’s a good choice for those who want to add extra heat to their fire without having to deal with the weight of heavier hardwoods.
Is Pecan Good Firewood?
Pecan makes excellent firewood because it’s one of the hottest burning options.
Plus, the logs are slow-burning, providing plenty of consistent heat for your home.
Another thing about pecan wood is that it produces very little ash. This means that you won’t have to clean out your fireplace or wood-burning stove so often, and the ashes can be used as mulch or added to your compost pile.
And last but not least, the aroma. Pecan wood has a subtle, nutty scent that can add a bit of flavor to your fire. If you like the smell of roasted nuts, you’ll love the way your home smells after burning pecan logs.
Pecan BTUs
Pecan has one of the higher BTU ratings compared to many other woods, at 28 million BTUs per cord.
This makes it a fantastic choice for those who need to generate a lot of heat.
In fact, very few hardwoods can match the heat output of pecan. For example, the most popular firewood option, white oak, produces slightly more at 29.1 million BTUs.
Benefits of Burning Pecan
Pecan firewood burns hotter and cleaner than most other types of wood, offering a cozy and inviting warmth for those cold winter evenings.
As a result, it’s a good option for those looking for an alternative to softwoods or traditional hardwoods.
When burned, pecan firewood gives off a sweet and nutty scent that can enhance the ambiance of any room.
This makes it good for use in smokers and grills as well!
In addition to its pleasant smell, pecan firewood produces little to no smoke.
It is also one of the longest-burning woods available, making it a lifesaver for those in colder climates where a consistent and steady heat source is a must-have.
Drawbacks of Burning Pecan
There’s really only one downside to using pecan firewood: the price.
This is because the trees are primarily grown for the nuts and not the firewood, so the wood can be hard to find at a reasonable price.
Unfortunately, this makes pecan one of the more expensive hardwoods on the market, so it’s not the most accessible choice for those on a budget.
But if you can afford it, the benefits of pecan firewood make it well worth the price!
Here’s a breakdown of what makes Pecan great and not so great.
Pros:
- Burns hot and long
- Produces minimal smoke and ash
- Fragrant aroma
- Can be used for smoking meat
Cons:
- Expensive
- Hard to source
Pecan Firewood FAQ
You ask, we answer. Here’s what we’ve found to be the most commonly asked questions about pecan firewood.
Is Pecan good for smoking?
Pecan is an excellent wood for smoking because it burns slowly and adds a subtle flavor to meats.
Like apple and mesquite, it’s one of the more popular woods used in smokers because the chips are readily available and inexpensive.
How do I identify a Pecan tree?
Pecan trees are large, deciduous trees that can grow up to 100 feet tall. They have dark green leaves and light brown to reddish-brown bark.
The nuts (actually seeds) are encased in a thick, hard shell and are recognizable once cracked.
How to source Pecan firewood?
Pecan wood is commercially grown in specific places, so a reputable firewood dealer is the best way to source it.
This way, you’re sure to get high-quality wood that has been properly seasoned and cut to size.
How long does it take for Pecan wood to season?
Under the right conditions, you can use it after a year or so after waiting for the wood to dry out.
The ideal seasoning time is up to two years, so carefully plan if you want to use it for firewood.
However, the wait is most definitely worth it as the finished product is some of the best firewood available.
Can I burn green pecan firewood?
No, you should not burn green pecan wood because of its higher-than-average moisture content.
It will produce an awful amount of smoke and creosote.
This can be a fire hazard and is also bad for your health.
Always make sure that your pecan wood is properly seasoned before burning.
Pecan Wood
As you can see, pecan firewood has a lot to offer.
It’s one of the better choices for those who need a lot of heat, as it has a high BTU rating.
It also burns cleaner than most other types of wood and produces little to no smoke.
Plus, the nutty scent it gives off can add an enticing aroma to your fire.
However, the price per cord may be prohibitive for some, so weighing your options carefully before making a purchase is crucial.
Cheaper alternatives that are still very good for firewood include elm, cherry, and walnut.
