What are the characteristics of desirable cherry timber locations?

• A. Lowland swamps with high gum spots.
• B. Higher elevations in Pennsylvania, New York, and West Virginia where gum spots are fewer.
• C. Dry high-altitude deserts with light-color wood.
• D. Coastal dunes with rapid growth.

Answer: (B)

Quality cherry timber comes from sites that promote clean wood with minimal defects. Higher elevations in Pennsylvania, New York, and West Virginia tend to slow growth and create conditions that reduce gum pockets, so the wood has fewer defects and better appearance, making it more desirable. In contrast, lowland swamps stress trees and increase gum pockets, which lowers timber quality even if the tree is large. Dry high-altitude deserts are not typical cherry habitats and would not give the best wood characteristics, while coastal dunes tend to produce faster growth with coarser grain and more defects, reducing value.