Trees are at the heart of our communities. Steeped in history and spread over iconic countryside, they make up forests we can explore and relax in. Their timber is also very important – it’s the table we sit round for dinner, the roof above our head, even the pages of our favourite novel.
The forest cycle
Well-managed forests last forever and rely on the forest cycle – plant, grow, fell, repeat.
During the forest cycle we make sure that we're also looking after wildlife, protecting the environment and providing access and facilities for people to enjoy the forests.
Timber products
Different timber products are made from different parts of the tree. Click below to find what the different parts are used for.
Softwood vs hardwood
Timber from conifers (such as fir, pine, spruce and larch), is known as softwood. They do well in cold conditions. Most are evergreen but some, like larch, are deciduous and drop their needles in winter. Conifers are cone-bearing and often have needle-like leaves.
Timber from broadleaves (such as oak, ash and beech), is known as hardwood. Broadleaved trees usually have wide leaves that are lost in the autumn, although some, like holly – are evergreen. Hardwoods are used to make high quality products including furniture.
