Salo, Kauko. 1995. Non-timber forest products and their utilization. In: Hytönen, M. (ed.) Multiple-use forestry in the Nordic countries. METLA, Finnish Forest Research Institute, Helsinki Research Centre. p. 117-155.

6 Non-timber forest products and their utilization

Kauko Salo, Finnish Forest Research Institute, Joensuu Research Station, P.O.Box 68, FIN-80101 Joensuu, Finland.

Abstract

The economically most significant and most popular berry species in Finland, Sweden and Norway are cowberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea), bilberry (V. myrtillus), cloudberry (Rubus chamaemorus) and raspberry (R. idaeus). They are primarily forest and mire species inhabiting various forest and peatland site types. Cowberry is the most important household berry in Finland and it also provides most abundant crop. Bilberry takes first place in Sweden and Norway. The majority of the best edible mushrooms occur on dry, dryish or moist upland forests. Most of them are mycorrhizal species that accompany pine, spruce and birches. Three mushroom species, Boletus edulis, Suillus luteus and Cantharellus cibarius are considered to be the best edible mushrooms in all the Nordic countries. Also, other common wild berry species and edible mushroom species are popular. The reindeer lichen species Cladonia alpestris forms extensive carpets in the driest woodlands of the northern part of the boreal coniferous zone. The lichen is used for ornamental purposes. Lichen is mostly exported to central Europe, where the leading importers are Germany, Austria and Italy. Norway spruce (Picea abies) has been the traditional choice as a Christmas tree. The estimated annual consumption of Christmas trees in the Nordic countries is 6.5-7.5 million trees. Christmas trees and the ornamental foliage of numerous exotics (e.g. Abies nordmanniana, A. procera) have a significant role in Danish forestry. Ornamental foliage consists of evergreen branchlets used for decorative purposes. In this area of forestry Denmark is the leader in Europe.

Keywords: forest products, berries, mushrooms, lichen, Christmas trees, ornamental foliage.