Green wood for smoking


 
John Neuser

John Neuser

TVWBB Fan
So reading all this good info about smoking and what wood to use got me to thinking, if green wood smokes can I use it in my WSM 22.5"?
My neighbor has a couple of apple trees that he prunes from time to time. Why couldn't this be used as is. Take a limb that's about 2 - 3" in diameter, slice off a few rounds and throw them into the smoker. Thoughts? Thank you.
 
Green wood doesn't burn well. Ideally you want the Thin Blue Smoke for smoking - green wood doesn't do a good job of this or making a bed of coals.

Myself.... I'd take all the trims he could supply (within limits) & let them season (doesn't take that long). You'll be very happy with your stash.
 
X2 what Robert said. I always try to let my wood sit for at least 3-4 months after I cut it and chop it into chunks. It may set you back a few months on the initial run, but after that, you're good to go.
Tim
 
I have a friend who cuts and splits a big box of cherry for me for Christmas. One of my longest standing friends! I would love to share a big platter of smoked anything with him, he's a vegetarian!
 
I use pretty much the same kind of Apple wood - bought a chop saw at an estate sale that I use to chop the stuff into about 3-inch lengths. You can do the same with a sharp bow saw when green. It goes through wood that size of limbs quickly. Once cut-up, the chunks dry to decent smoker use in a month or two.

Mix with a little Hickory chunks that I buy
 
Some do like smoking with green apple or any fruitwood. Bryan S on the old forum said you're missing something if you haven't tried it, so give it a try and let us know how it turned out.:wsm:

Tim
 
There a place in Austin TX called Green Mesquite. They use green mesquite to cook on and I think to even smoke with. I think it appeals to people who can't taste food? It sounds terrible to me.
 
Green wood is and can be OK but you don't use as much because the sap is in it and it can be too strong.Scaley bark hickory bark works great on any grill but go easy,a little goes a long way
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

 

Back
Top