Eastern Cedar Red Tree



Posted: Monday, September 21, 2009

by Dennis Sons
tn nursery

In the eastern United States, one of the most common trees to be found is the Eastern Red Cedar Tree. With such a rich history of uses by the indigenous tribes which inhabited the land, it is no surprise that the tree is still one of the most loved in the region. Though the name implies cedar, the true name of Juniperus Virginiana shows that the plant is actually in the Juniper family. The red in the name refers to the beautiful reddish wood which is popular world wide for a variety of reasons.

The wood of the cedar is used to make furniture and other items thanks to its durability and ease to work with. One of the most common and useful items is cedar chests which are able to store clothing and other linens without the problems of moths attacking them. Moths are not able to stand the scent of the cedar. Other ways in which this attribute can be used is by purchasing cedar hangers, and other closet inserts which will prevent moth related damage. Other reasons why the wood is so popular is because of it's resistance to rotting. Items that are made of the red cedar are often kept as family heirlooms for generations. Also, the cones are used to flavor gin.

The Eastern Red Cedar Tree is a hardy soul. Not only is the bushy, low growing tree able to survive but thrive in thirsty, dry regions, it is also resistant to cold environments as well. Most of the tree's longevity can be attributed to the deep root system which allows the plant to gain needed nourishment in even the harshest of areas. More proof of this is the fact that the tree can adapt to grow in just about any type of soil, though it prefers well drained areas.

More and more landscapers are finding that the Eastern Red Cedar Tree works exceptionally well for yard screens and as hedges. The column shaped tree can be trimmed and shaped into a wonderfully aromatic hedge which can help to cushion incoming sound and give a fresh scent off in the area. Advanced gardeners have found that by training the bushy tree from when it is small that they may use it as topiary in large areas as well. Since the tree has such dense foliage and grows quite quickly, these uses are becoming more widespread and popular in the eastern United States all the time. Some homeowners have invested in planting the Eastern Red Cedar Tree as a windbreak providing a natural line of protection against harsh, whipping winds. Also, the plant is somewhat fire tolerant. This can help give precious time when trying to protect the home against grass and local brush fires which may be in the area.

Finding the tree and making cuttings to grow on one's own is not difficult, but many area nurseries and tree farmers would have the Eastern Red Cedar Tree variety that you are looking for.


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