Seasoning wood

[Tim O]

I just came across some sizable pieces of fresh pruned applewood at a local orchard. It's still green, so how long does it need to rest enforce I can use it? I've read anywhere from 9-13 months...

 

[Bob Sample]

I usually season mine for around a year but I've used it after 8 months with no problems.

 

[Dave Russell]

Fruit woods season very quick, depending on the weather, especially if cut to the size you're gonna use for smoking. If I cut some green apple to chunks around here right now I'd expect them to go "clack!" when knocked together and be ready in three or four months, tops, as long as I kept them dry and with air circulation, of course. You risk mold growth, depending on the climate, but it will season really quick if left in a shed in the warm months.

 

[timothy]

If you want to speed up the process, chunk em like Dave suggests and store in an well vented crate in you're attic. Thats a tip I read on here but never tried it.
Another one was to put a chunk or two in a microwave.. I forget the time and % settings but someone did it and it worked.

Tim

 

[Dave Russell]

If you want to speed up the process, chunk em like Dave suggests and store in an well vented crate in you're attic. Thats a tip I read on here but never tried it.
Another one was to put a chunk or two in a microwave.. I forget the time and % settings but someone did it and it worked.

Tim

Yep. Either the attic or microwave should work great without the risk of mold. I've got some cherry to cut and will try the attic a while, Tim. Thanks for the tip.

 

[timothy]

Thanks for the tip.

You're welcome Dave.
Let us know how that works. My attic access hole is in a small coat closet, a real PITA to use just to go up and take a look-see.

Tim