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Knots or branch stubs
Knots or branch stubs are major defects in sawn timber for
most uses. Knots interfere with the timber’s grain, reducing
its strength and appearance qualities. They may also become
entry points for rot and discolouration that can spread through
the tree. Loose, dead knots caused by dead branches can greatly
reduce the strength of sawn timber and can be unsightly in
appearance products. Although small, tight, live knots may
add character to the timber without affecting its strength
most markets prefer timber clear of all knots.
Pruning live branches can confine the knots to a central core.
The sawmiller can then cut around the core to recover
clearwood or knot-free timber. The location
and size of knots can also be managed by spressing branch
development using high tree stocking rates
Silviculture
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