Decay of Living Western Redcedar: A Literature Review

An overview of literature relevant to decay in living western redcedar is provided. Despite the species’ reputation for decay resistant heartwood, living western redcedar trees frequently have extensive decay. This overview has several sections, starting with background information on western redcedar distribution, attributes and inventory. This is followed by an introduction to decay, which covers decay fungi occurring on living western redcedar, host defences, and microbial succession in living western redcedar trees. Factors affecting decay such as age and site conditions are covered as are indicators and detection of decay in living western redcedar. The final sections of the overview present information about managing decay in living western redcedar and about future research needs. Also included is a summary about decay fungi affecting western redcedar wood products. Western redcedar has significant economic, cultural and ecological value throughout its natural range in western North America; better understanding of its interactions with decay fungi will enhance these values.