So what is a Sitka Spruce?
Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis) is part of the family of coniferous trees called Pinaceae. The tree takes it name from the Sitka Sound area of Alaska where the tree originates. It is now found all over Northern Europe as well as the west coast of the USA as far south as California.
It was introduced to the UK in 1831 by David Douglas as an exotic tree due to its height. Originally into in many parks and gardens up and down the country but now it can be found in many woodlands.
Many grow to be very tall, the maximum capable is thought to be around 295 feet (90 metres), Sitka being the largest of all the Spruce trees. It is also thought to grow 1 metre a year when good soil and favourable weather conditions are available.
The fast growing characteristic makes it an excellent tree for carbon sequestering. This is the process where trees remove Carbon Dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and store it in its roots and branches. As many people know CO2 is thought to be a major contributor to global warming and sequestering as much of it as possible will help to maintain the Earth’s temperature.
According to the forestry commission large animals such as deer and foxes like to find shelter amongst the trees. Birds of prey, like Goshawks and Sparrowhawks can find excellent nesting and hunting sites on and around the Sitka Spruce. Smaller birds such as the Crossbill, Tree Creeper, Coal tit and Siskin also enjoy living and feeding around this variety of tree.
The Sitka Spruce is a very long lived variety - many trees reach over 700 years old. Perhaps the oldest (and largest) on record is the Sitka Spruce near Portland in the State of Oregon (USA). This tree stands at 206 feet (62.8 metres) and is 750 years old. More information about the tree can be found by clicking here.
The Sitka’s high strength-to-weight ratio and regular knot-free rings make it an excellent conductor of sound. Making it the perfect choice for the material for many of the world’s best guitars, pianos, harps and violins.
K International will plant this variety of tree in its woodland along with Scots Pine, Oak and Beech trees.
Tags: Planting, Sitka Spruce, Tree
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