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Tree Crown Uses

The crown of a plant refers to all of the plant's above-ground parts, including branches, stems, leaves and reproductive structures. Shapes of crowns are highly variable. Crowns are also characterized by width, depth, surface area, volume and density. Major functions of the crown include photosynthesis, respiration and transpiration, which are performed by leaves. Branches of the crown provide mechanical support to distribute the leaves efficiently and serve as conduits for resources. If you've cut down a tree in your yard, you can use parts of the tree crown to make compost, crafts or around the garden.

Firewood
- Trees that have been cut down can be used as firewood. Some types, however, of wood burn better than others. The best trees to use are sugar maple, white ash, elm, beech, yellow birch, hickory and oak. Before using the trunk and branches for firewood, allow the wood to season, or letting the wood dry so it doesn't create smoke as it burns. Maintain proper ventilation when burning wood inside by keeping the chimney flue open and clean..
Compost
- Composting is an environmentally friendly way of cleaning up leaves, which are rich in trace minerals. Adding compost to your garden enhances its growth, adds natural antibiotics to keep plants healthy and control disease and keeps moisture in the soil to reduce watering. Shred the leaves with a lawn mower or shredder to hasten the process. Mix them with grass clippings to help them break down before adding to the compost bin.
Furniture and Crafts
- Wood from the trunk or branches can be used to make furniture such as shelves, coat racks or patio furniture for the yard. Rustic-looking shelves can be used in the kitchen or bathroom to hold toiletries, hold plants or as a spice rack. If you have a branch about 3 inches in diameter, you can cut half-inch slabs to make coasters. Allow the wood to dry if you want to the bark to remain. You can even create a lamp out of twigs to add a cozy touch to a bedroom or cottage.
Garden
- Larger branches can work well as wood for the fireplace, but they can also be used around the garden. Place long branches in the soil to act as perches for growing vines that need support. If you have a wide trunk to work with, cut 2-inch circular slabs to create an interesting walkway in the garden. Apply a low-VOC (volatile organic compound) stain or beeswax to protect the slabs.

Nature