Black Locust fence posts

feedjake · Dec 6, 2011

OK, here we go, looking forward at the temperature forecast, it's showing to be highs in the upper 30's, and maybe 40 degrees max for the next 7-10 days here in Central Ohio. I'm finally planning on getting out to the field to take down the Black Locust trees for my fence posts. Hopefully, I can have a full two weeks of freezing temps before cutting them down.

Garybake · Dec 6, 2011

Well, I give you credit, feedjake! You are a patient man! I think you are safe now... Most nights have been cold with shortened daylight times. Thislast spell of rain and warm temps last week brought some buds on my locust trees in southern MI but thats MI weather for you. Good luck and keep a file on that chain as it will dull fast on that wood and you do not need an accident now. Most occur from pushing a dull chain but sharp enough to damage skin.
Keep us posted on your felling progress.:thumbsup:GB

6thgpSF · Dec 6, 2011

I cut a couple hundred black locust posts a few yrs ago.I found trying to debark them right after cutting was a very difficult process.I stacked them and let them season for about 6months and found that you can take the bark off with your hands.They make a beautiful post...russ

feedjake · Dec 10, 2011

Well today was the big day! Took down my first few trees for posts! Only had time to take down about 5 trees before it started getting dark (the wife was working and I was watching the boys). But I did it and have a few more to take tomorrow. Just saying to all, I appreciate all your valuable input!

Little_Grizzly · Dec 10, 2011

Make sure you mound up the dirt around the post. Don't just pound it flat. The dirt will settle and then you'll invite a puddle and rot.

Garybake · Jan 23, 2012

Feedjake how was progress for last month. Winter has been kind to you. Any updates?
Gary

feedjake · Jan 23, 2012

Yes, winter has been kind/odd to us this year so far. I've gathered a grand total of 16 posts cut to length. I'm in process of de-barking them. Just a bit over half
Done with that. Not going as fast as I'd like it to. Just due to work, kids, and wife's working. They are drying in a stack in my barn under cover from rain and snow. I hope to let them "dry" enough by August or September this year.

Thanks for the interest!

MMagis · Jan 23, 2012

I actually leave mine out in the rain/snow for a while. It makes getting the bark of a breeze. They won't rot.

feedjake · Feb 6, 2012

Just noticed a couple of interesting things with a post while de-barking. Any thoughts about what looks like insect holes or maybe rot at one spot? I was thinking about filling the little hole on the top with something like wood putty, or the like.. But then again black locust = rot resistance.

Ken45101 · Feb 6, 2012

feedjake said:
Just noticed a couple of interesting things with a post while de-barking. Any thoughts about what looks like insect holes or maybe rot at one spot? I was thinking about filling the little hole on the top with something like wood putty, or the like.. But then again black locust = rot resistance.

I can't tell for sure, but it looks to me like that is an old branch that died and the tree grew over it.

Remember, it is ONLY the heartwood that is insect and rot resistance, not the sapwood. That's true for all the "rot resistant" species (oak, cedar, b. locust, etc.)

No, I don't think wood putty would be a good idea.

Ken