Juniper Firewood — BTU Rating, Burn Quality & Tips
Juniperus occidentalis
BTU per Cord
21,600,000
Density
3,050 lbs/cord
Category
softwood
Split Difficulty
medium
Spark Rating
high
Smoke Rating
medium
Coaling Quality
good
Seasoning Time
6 months
Availability
regional
Burns hot for a conifer with a pleasant juniper aroma. Produces significant sparking from resin pockets. Common in the western high desert. Seasons quickly and is often available as rangeland clearing material. Use in enclosed stoves.
Pros
- +good coaling for long burns
- +Seasons relatively quickly (6 months)
Cons
- -High sparking — use with a screen or in a stove
Best Uses for Juniper
Open Fireplace
Not recommended — high sparking
Wood Stove
Good choice
Campfire
Great — easy to light and splits easily
Smoking/Cooking
Not recommended — resinous flavor
Seasoning Juniper
Juniper requires approximately 6 months of seasoning to reach the ideal moisture content of 20% or below. Split wood to 3-6 inch pieces and stack with good airflow. Keep the top covered but leave sides open to air. Store off the ground on pallets or rails.
Compare With Similar Species
Last updated: December 2024