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Sapele Wood Growth: A Complete Guide
If you are interested in woodworking or construction, you must have a basic understanding of wood types and their grains. Among the various types of wood all over the world, Sapele wood is undoubtedly one of the most used woods in the African region. Its durability, density, and luxurious color make it a top choice for many furniture manufacturers.
In this article, we are going to dive deep into the growth of Sapele wood in the African region, and we will provide you with everything you need to know.
Introduction
Sapele wood, scientifically known as Entandrophragma cylindricum, belongs to the family Meliaceae. This wood is widely known for its rich, dark reddish-brown color and is native to West Africa. It grows mainly in countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Ivory Coast.
The Growth of Sapele Wood
Sapele wood is a tropical wood, which means it grows in a warm and humid environment. The wood typically grows in the tropical rainforests of the African region. Like any wood, Sapele wood needs a specific climate, environmental conditions, and soil to grow. In this section, we will discuss everything you need to know about the growth of Sapele wood.
Climate and Environmental Conditions
Sapele wood grows in the equatorial forest region where the climate is tropical. The area has a consistent temperature ranging from 23-28°C, and it gets between 1500-2000mm annual rainfall. The wood requires a specific humidity level to grow correctly, which ranges from 75-85%.
Soil
Sapele wood grows best in a nutrient-rich soil with good drainage. The soil must have a good supply of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients for the wood to grow well. The presence of certain minerals like calcium, magnesium, and aluminum can affect the quality of the wood.
Growth Process
Sapele wood is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves annually. The tree can grow up to 45-55 meters high with a diameter ranging from 1 to 2.5 meters. The tree has a straight and cylindrical trunk with a thick, dark grey bark. It typically takes about 50-80 years for the tree to mature fully.
Once the tree matures, it starts producing seeds that are mainly dispersed by wind. The flowers of the tree are pollinated by insects and are produced in groups of about 10 to 20.
Harvesting
The harvesting process of Sapele wood involves cutting down mature trees using heavy-duty machinery. The wood is then transported to sawmills where it is processed into different sizes and shapes. The wood can be made into furniture, flooring, decking, decorative objects, and many other applications.
FAQs
1. Is Sapele wood durable?
Yes, Sapele wood is a durable hardwood that can last long.
2. Can Sapele wood be used in outdoor applications?
Yes, Sapele wood is a suitable wood for outdoor applications like decking.
3. What is the cost of Sapele wood?
The cost of Sapele wood varies based on the grade, thickness, and quality. You can expect to pay around $5-$8 per board foot.
4. Is Sapele wood easy to work with?
Yes, Sapele wood is easy to work with and can be machined, sanded, and polished without difficulty.
5. How can I maintain the color of Sapele wood?
Sapele wood tends to darken with age, but you can maintain its color by applying regular coatings of finish or oil.
Conclusion
Sapele wood is a native hardwood tree to the African region, and it has become an essential wood in the woodworking industry. Understanding the growth process of the wood will help you appreciate the quality of the wood better. We hope this article has provided you with the complete guide to the growth of Sapele wood.
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