Winter vs. spring felling of trees (sap, seasoning, longevity, etc)

jas67 · Apr 20, 2010

I have heard/read that it is best to fell trees in the winter, as there is less sap in the wood. I assume this makes it season faster.

Specifically, I have a black walnut tree that my wife, and my neighbor both want cut down. I wanted to do it a month or so ago, but the ground was too wet and soggy -- didn't want to tear of the lawn in the processes. Now the ground is firm enough, but it is well into spring. I want to saw the trunk into lumber, and use the rest for firewood. Will cutting it now, instead next winter affect the quality of the resultant lumber, or do I just have to dry it longer?

Thanks,
Jay

MMagis · Apr 20, 2010

Cut it when you have time. Logging companies don't take the spring, summer and fall off.

easygo · Apr 21, 2010

The reason why logging companies like the winter most is because of the hard ground. I believe it does not matter when you cut the tree but what matters is how it is stickered, and stacked after cutting into lumber. If you have a sawyer near you whom you want to hire ask him (or her). You could probably just cut the tree down and mill it much later.

powerpace · Apr 22, 2010

The oldtimers used to farm in the summer and cut timber in the winter. Back when logs were cheap only about half of the log was used for building products; boards and millwork. They kept the best grades. The rest was burned or let lay. Most sawn lumber was not kiln dried but the best grades didn't warp. A lot of old buildings that used airdried wood harvested in winter are still in good shape.
But to answer your question. The less moisture in the log the better. Winter is a dormant period for the tree. Spring and summer are active times for the growth and thus instability. That's why most wood types harvested now needs special treatment (kiln dry) to stabilize the fibers and cells. Remaining moisture should be between 7% and 15% for real stabilization depending on the climate and end use.

Youare · Apr 22, 2010

If it is going to be 6 or 8 months before you get the trunk sawed you may want to wait to cut the tree down. Some species are more prone to mildew and molding than others, I am assuming that walnut is fairly resistant white pine is very sensitive and will blue stain if the logs lay around too long in the summer months.

Once you cut the tree take the logs you are going to save spray paint the ends and get them off the ground. Rollong them up onto a 4x4 or even a piece of limb wood will work. You want the air to get around them so they don't get moisture from the ground. Spray painting the ends will keep the wood from drying out too fast and keep the ends from splitting or checking as they call it.

Becareful.

Randy