How Fast Do Locust Trees Grow? (5 Growth Facts For Woodworkers)

As someone deeply involved in sustainable wood practices, I’m always on the lookout for eco-friendly options. That’s why I’ve developed a keen interest in locust trees – particularly black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia). They’re not just any tree; they’re fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing powerhouses that produce incredibly durable wood. If you’re a woodworker, understanding how fast these trees grow is crucial for planning projects, managing woodlots, or even just satisfying your curiosity. So, let’s dive into the growth facts that every woodworker should know about locust trees.

Unveiling the Growth Dynamics of Locust Trees

Locust trees, especially black locust, are known for their rapid growth rates. But how fast exactly do they grow? And what factors influence this growth? Let’s break it down into five key facts that are essential for woodworkers.

Fact 1: The Initial Burst – Early Growth Rates

In their early years, locust trees exhibit remarkable growth. During the first 5-10 years, a black locust can grow at an astonishing rate of 3-4 feet per year. I remember planting a few saplings on a reclaimed piece of land I owned. Within just three years, they were already towering over me, reaching heights of over 10 feet! This rapid growth is partly due to their nitrogen-fixing abilities, which enrich the soil around them, providing a natural fertilizer.

Data Point: Studies have shown that black locust can add up to 200 pounds of nitrogen per acre per year to the soil, fostering faster growth and healthier ecosystems.

This initial burst is crucial for establishing the tree and outcompeting other vegetation. For woodworkers, this means that if you’re planting locust trees for future use, you can expect to see substantial growth relatively quickly.

Fact 2: Slowing Down – Mature Growth Rates

As locust trees mature, their growth rate naturally slows down. After the initial rapid growth phase, the annual growth rate typically decreases to around 1-2 feet per year. This is because the tree is now focusing more on increasing its trunk diameter and overall structural stability rather than just height.

Insight: This slower growth phase is also when the wood starts to develop its characteristic hardness and durability, making it ideal for woodworking projects.

From my personal experience, I’ve noticed that the wood from older, slower-growing locust trees tends to be denser and more resistant to rot and insect damage. This makes it highly prized for outdoor applications like fence posts, decking, and even boatbuilding.

Fact 3: Environmental Factors – Light, Soil, and Water

The growth rate of locust trees is heavily influenced by environmental factors. Like any plant, they need adequate sunlight, well-drained soil, and sufficient water to thrive.

Sunlight: Locust trees are shade-intolerant, meaning they need plenty of direct sunlight to grow optimally. Planting them in a sunny location will significantly boost their growth rate.
Soil: While locust trees can tolerate a wide range of soil types, they prefer well-drained soils. They also have a remarkable ability to grow in poor, disturbed soils, making them excellent for land reclamation projects.
Water: Although they are relatively drought-tolerant once established, young locust trees need consistent watering, especially during dry periods.

I’ve seen firsthand how these factors can impact growth. On one side of my property, where the soil is richer and there’s more sunlight, the locust trees are noticeably larger and healthier than those on the other side, where the soil is poorer and there’s more shade.

Fact 4: Species Variation – Black Locust vs. Other Locusts

While black locust is the most well-known and widely used species, there are other types of locust trees, each with slightly different growth characteristics.

Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia): This is the workhorse of the locust family, known for its rapid growth, durable wood, and nitrogen-fixing abilities.
Honey Locust (Gleditsia triacanthos): Honey locusts tend to grow slightly slower than black locusts and have a different wood structure. They are also known for their long thorns, although thornless varieties are available.
Bristly Locust (Robinia hispida): This is a smaller, shrub-like locust species that is primarily used for ornamental purposes and erosion control.

When choosing locust trees for woodworking, black locust is generally the best option due to its superior wood quality and fast growth rate. However, honey locust can also be used, although it may require more time to reach a usable size.

Fact 5: Management Practices – Pruning and Thinning

Proper management practices, such as pruning and thinning, can significantly impact the growth and quality of locust trees.

Pruning: Pruning young locust trees can help to shape them and encourage the development of a strong central leader. This is important for producing straight, knot-free lumber.
Thinning: Thinning out overcrowded stands of locust trees allows the remaining trees to receive more sunlight and nutrients, promoting faster growth and better wood quality.

I’ve found that regular pruning and thinning can make a huge difference in the overall health and productivity of a locust woodlot. By removing weaker or diseased trees, you can create a more vigorous and resilient stand.

The Unique Wood Properties of Locust

Understanding the growth rate of locust trees is only half the battle. As woodworkers, we also need to know about the unique properties of locust wood that make it so desirable.

Durability and Rot Resistance

One of the most remarkable characteristics of locust wood is its exceptional durability and resistance to rot and decay. This is due to the presence of natural compounds in the wood that act as preservatives.

Data Point: Black locust is rated as “very resistant” to decay, meaning it can last for decades, even in direct contact with the ground.

I’ve used locust wood for fence posts, raised garden beds, and even outdoor furniture, and I’ve been consistently impressed by its ability to withstand the elements. Unlike many other types of wood, locust doesn’t require chemical treatments to protect it from rot and insects, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.

Strength and Hardness

In addition to its durability, locust wood is also incredibly strong and hard. It has a high density and a tight grain, which makes it resistant to wear and tear.

Data Point: Black locust has a Janka hardness rating of around 1,700 lbf, which is significantly higher than many other hardwoods like oak and maple.

This strength and hardness make locust wood ideal for applications that require a tough and durable material, such as tool handles, flooring, and even structural components. I’ve used locust for making mallets and other striking tools, and it holds up remarkably well, even under heavy use.

Workability

Despite its hardness, locust wood is generally considered to be relatively workable. It can be easily sawn, planed, and sanded, although it does have a tendency to dull cutting edges quickly.

Tip: When working with locust wood, it’s important to use sharp tools and take light cuts to avoid tear-out.

I’ve found that using carbide-tipped blades and cutters can help to extend the life of your tools when working with locust. Also, pre-drilling pilot holes is recommended when driving screws or nails to prevent splitting.

Appearance

Locust wood has a distinctive appearance that many woodworkers find appealing. The heartwood is typically a golden brown color, while the sapwood is a paler yellow. The grain is usually straight and tight, with a smooth, even texture.

Personal Note: I particularly like the way locust wood looks when finished with a clear oil or varnish. The natural color and grain patterns really pop, creating a beautiful and durable surface.

Over time, locust wood will naturally weather to a silvery-gray color if left unfinished. This can be a desirable look for outdoor applications, but if you want to maintain the original color, you’ll need to apply a UV-resistant finish.

Logging Tool Selection and Maintenance Best Practices

To effectively harvest and process locust trees, it’s essential to have the right logging tools and know how to maintain them properly. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most important tools and techniques.

Chainsaws

Chainsaws are indispensable for felling trees, limbing branches, and bucking logs into manageable lengths. When selecting a chainsaw for locust trees, consider the following:

Size and Power: For smaller locust trees, a mid-sized chainsaw with a 16-18 inch bar should be sufficient. For larger trees, you’ll need a more powerful saw with a longer bar.
Safety Features: Always choose a chainsaw with essential safety features like a chain brake, throttle lock, and anti-vibration system.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your chainsaw running smoothly and safely. This includes sharpening the chain, cleaning the air filter, and checking the fuel and oil levels.

I’ve learned the hard way that a dull chain can not only slow you down but also increase the risk of kickback. I now make it a habit to sharpen my chain after every few hours of use, and I always wear proper safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, and ear protection.

Axes and Hatchets

Axes and hatchets are useful for a variety of tasks, such as felling small trees, splitting firewood, and removing bark.

Axe Selection: Choose an axe with a head weight and handle length that are appropriate for the type of work you’ll be doing. A felling axe is designed for cutting down trees, while a splitting axe is designed for splitting wood.
Hatchets: Hatchets are smaller and lighter than axes, making them ideal for tasks like limbing branches and removing bark.
Maintenance: Keep your axes and hatchets sharp by regularly honing the blade with a sharpening stone. Also, inspect the handle for cracks or damage and replace it if necessary.

I find that a well-maintained axe is not only more efficient but also safer to use. A dull axe requires more force to swing, which can increase the risk of losing control and injuring yourself.

Log Splitters

Splitting locust wood by hand can be a challenging task due to its hardness and tight grain. A log splitter can make this job much easier and faster.

Manual Log Splitters: These are the simplest and most affordable type of log splitter. They use a lever or hydraulic pump to force a log against a splitting wedge.
Hydraulic Log Splitters: Hydraulic log splitters are more powerful than manual splitters and can handle larger and tougher logs. They are available in both electric and gas-powered models.
Maintenance: Hydraulic log splitters require regular maintenance, such as checking the hydraulic fluid level and lubricating the moving parts.

I invested in a hydraulic log splitter a few years ago, and it has been a game-changer for my firewood operation. It has significantly reduced the amount of time and effort required to split locust wood, and it has also made the job much safer.

Safety Gear

No matter what type of logging tools you’re using, it’s essential to wear proper safety gear to protect yourself from injury.

Helmet: A hard hat is essential for protecting your head from falling branches or other debris.
Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield will protect your eyes from flying wood chips and dust.
Ear Protection: Chainsaws and other logging tools can be very loud, so it’s important to wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing.
Gloves: Work gloves will protect your hands from cuts, scrapes, and splinters.
Steel-Toed Boots: Steel-toed boots will protect your feet from falling logs and other heavy objects.
Chainsaw Chaps: If you’re using a chainsaw, chainsaw chaps are essential for protecting your legs from accidental cuts.

I always make sure to wear all of my safety gear before starting any logging or wood processing task. It may seem like a hassle, but it’s a small price to pay for protecting yourself from serious injury.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations

If you’re planning to use locust wood for firewood, it’s important to season it properly to reduce its moisture content and improve its burning efficiency. Here’s a guide to firewood seasoning techniques and safety considerations.

Why Season Firewood?

Freshly cut wood contains a high amount of moisture, which makes it difficult to burn and produces a lot of smoke. Seasoning firewood reduces the moisture content, making it easier to ignite, burn cleaner, and produce more heat.

Data Point: Properly seasoned firewood typically has a moisture content of around 20% or less, while freshly cut wood can have a moisture content of 50% or more.

Seasoning Methods

There are several different methods for seasoning firewood, but the most common and effective is air-drying.

Air-Drying: To air-dry firewood, stack it in a well-ventilated area, off the ground, and under a cover to protect it from rain and snow. The ideal stack should be one log deep, with plenty of space between rows to allow for air circulation.
Kiln-Drying: Kiln-drying is a faster method of seasoning firewood, but it requires specialized equipment. In this method, the wood is placed in a kiln and heated to a high temperature to remove the moisture.

I’ve found that air-drying is the most practical and cost-effective method for seasoning firewood. It takes longer than kiln-drying, but it doesn’t require any special equipment and it produces high-quality seasoned wood.

Seasoning Time

The amount of time it takes to season firewood depends on the type of wood, the climate, and the stacking method.

Locust Wood: Locust wood typically takes 6-12 months to season properly.
Climate: In dry climates, firewood will season faster than in humid climates.
Stacking Method: Stacking firewood in a way that allows for good air circulation will speed up the seasoning process.

I always try to plan ahead and cut my firewood at least a year in advance to give it plenty of time to season properly. This ensures that I have a good supply of dry, efficient firewood when I need it.

Safety Considerations

When handling and stacking firewood, it’s important to take certain safety precautions to prevent injuries.

Lift Properly: When lifting heavy logs, bend your knees and keep your back straight to avoid strain.
Wear Gloves: Work gloves will protect your hands from splinters and cuts.
Stack Safely: Stack firewood in a stable manner to prevent it from collapsing.
Watch for Insects and Animals: Be aware of the potential for insects and animals, such as spiders, snakes, and rodents, to be hiding in the firewood.

I always wear gloves and steel-toed boots when handling firewood, and I make sure to stack it in a safe and stable manner. I also keep an eye out for any signs of insects or animals.

Project Planning and Execution

Now that we’ve covered the growth characteristics of locust trees, their unique wood properties, logging tool selection and maintenance, and firewood seasoning techniques, let’s talk about project planning and execution. Whether you’re planning to build a fence, construct a deck, or simply harvest firewood, careful planning is essential for success.

Defining Your Project Goals

The first step in any project is to clearly define your goals. What do you want to achieve? What are your specific requirements?

Example: If you’re planning to build a fence, you’ll need to determine the length of the fence, the height of the fence, and the type of fence posts you’ll use.
Firewood: If you’re planning to harvest firewood, you’ll need to determine how much firewood you need, where you’ll harvest it from, and how you’ll transport it.

I always start by writing down my project goals in detail. This helps me to stay focused and organized, and it also makes it easier to track my progress.

Assessing Your Resources

Once you’ve defined your project goals, you need to assess your resources. What tools and equipment do you have available? What materials will you need to purchase?

Tools and Equipment: Make a list of all the tools and equipment you’ll need for the project, such as a chainsaw, axe, log splitter, measuring tape, and safety gear.
Materials: Determine the amount of locust wood you’ll need, as well as any other materials, such as nails, screws, or concrete.

I always try to use the tools and equipment that I already have on hand, but I’m also willing to invest in new tools if they will make the project easier or safer.

Developing a Timeline

Creating a timeline is essential for keeping your project on track. Break the project down into smaller tasks and estimate how long each task will take.

Example: If you’re building a fence, your timeline might include tasks like clearing the fence line, digging post holes, setting the posts, and attaching the fence boards.
Firewood: If you’re harvesting firewood, your timeline might include tasks like felling the trees, limbing the branches, bucking the logs, splitting the wood, and stacking it to season.

I find that it’s helpful to create a visual timeline using a calendar or spreadsheet. This allows me to see the entire project at a glance and to identify any potential bottlenecks.

Executing the Project

Once you’ve planned your project, it’s time to execute it. Follow your timeline and complete each task in a timely and efficient manner.

Safety First: Always prioritize safety when working with logging tools and handling wood.
Stay Organized: Keep your work area clean and organized to prevent accidents and make it easier to find what you need.
Be Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plans as needed. Unexpected challenges may arise, so it’s important to be flexible and adaptable.

I always try to stay focused and disciplined when working on a project. I also make sure to take breaks when I need them to avoid fatigue and maintain my concentration.

Locust Wood Applications: From Rustic Fences to Fine Furniture

Locust wood’s unique properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Here are some examples of how you can use locust wood in your woodworking projects:

Rustic Fences and Posts

One of the most common uses for locust wood is in rustic fences and posts. Its natural durability and resistance to rot make it an ideal choice for outdoor applications.

Example: You can use locust posts to create a traditional split-rail fence or a more modern post-and-board fence.
Tip: For a rustic look, leave the bark on the posts. For a more refined look, remove the bark and sand the posts smooth.

I’ve built several locust fences on my property, and they have held up remarkably well over the years. I particularly like the natural, rustic look of the locust posts.

Durable Decking and Outdoor Furniture

Locust wood is also an excellent choice for decking and outdoor furniture. Its strength and hardness make it resistant to wear and tear, and its natural preservatives protect it from rot and insects.

Example: You can use locust decking to create a beautiful and long-lasting deck. You can also use locust wood to build chairs, tables, and benches for your patio or garden.
Tip: Apply a UV-resistant finish to protect the locust wood from fading in the sun.

I’ve built a locust deck on my back porch, and it has been a wonderful addition to my home. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and I know that it will last for many years to come.

Long-Lasting Tool Handles

Locust wood’s strength and hardness make it an ideal choice for tool handles. It can withstand heavy use and won’t easily split or crack.

Example: You can use locust wood to make handles for axes, hammers, shovels, and other tools.
Tip: Shape the handle to fit your hand comfortably for a secure and ergonomic grip.

I’ve made several locust tool handles, and they have been a significant improvement over the factory-made handles that came with my tools. They are more durable, more comfortable to use, and they look great too.

Unique Flooring Options

Locust wood’s unique grain patterns and color variations make it an attractive choice for flooring. Its hardness and resistance to wear make it a practical choice as well.

Example: You can use locust wood to create a beautiful and durable hardwood floor.
Tip: Consider using a variety of different locust boards to create a unique and visually interesting floor.

I’ve seen locust flooring in a few homes, and it always makes a strong impression. The natural beauty of the wood, combined with its durability, makes it a truly exceptional flooring option.

Boat Building

Due to its rot resistance, locust wood is a great choice for boat building, and other marine applications.

Example: Locust wood can be used to create durable and long lasting boats.
Tip: Proper sealing and maintenance are still important to ensure longevity in marine environments.

Conclusion: Embracing the Potential of Locust Wood

As we’ve explored, locust trees offer a unique combination of rapid growth, exceptional wood properties, and environmental benefits. For woodworkers, understanding the growth dynamics of locust trees is essential for planning projects, managing woodlots, and utilizing this valuable resource sustainably.

From its remarkable durability and strength to its workability and aesthetic appeal, locust wood offers a wide range of possibilities for woodworking projects. Whether you’re building fences, decks, furniture, or tool handles, locust wood can provide a long-lasting and beautiful result.

By following the logging tool selection and maintenance best practices, and firewood seasoning techniques, you can ensure that you’re harvesting and processing locust wood safely and efficiently. And by carefully planning and executing your projects, you can maximize the potential of this remarkable material.

So, embrace the potential of locust wood and explore the many ways you can incorporate it into your woodworking projects. With its unique properties and sustainable qualities, locust wood is a valuable resource that can be enjoyed for generations to come.