Coppicing
Coppicing
Coppicing (/ˈkɒpɪsɪŋ/) is a traditional method of woodland management which exploits the capacity of many species of trees to put out new shoots from their stump or roots if cut down.
Etymology
The term 'coppice' comes from the French word couper, meaning 'to cut'.
Process
In a coppiced wood, which is called a copse, young tree stems are repeatedly cut down to near ground level, known as a coppice stool. In subsequent growth years, many new shoots will emerge, and, after a number of years the coppiced tree, or stool, is ready to be harvested, and the cycle begins again.
Species
Typically, a coppiced woodland is harvested in sections or coupes on a rotation. In this way, a crop is available each year somewhere in the woodland. Coppicing has the effect of providing a rich variety of habitats, as the woodland always has a range of different-aged coppice growing. Certain species of trees are more suitable for coppicing, such as willow, hazel, ash, field maple, sweet chestnut, and oak.
Uses
Coppicing has been used to produce firewood, fencing materials, and various products for crafts such as basket weaving. It also helps to preserve the health of the forest and encourages biodiversity by allowing sunlight to reach the forest floor, which encourages the growth of a wide variety of plant species.
Related Terms
- Coppice stool: The base of a tree or shrub that has been coppiced, which contains one or more stems.
- Coupes: Sections of a coppiced woodland which are cut on a rotation.
- Pollarding: Similar to coppicing, but the trees are cut at a higher level.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Coppicing
- Wikipedia's article - Coppicing
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