How long do you need to air dry branches off a fruit tree,for example, before you use it for smoking?
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Depending on size,etc.
Throw some up in your attic,where you live,for a few weeks and you'll be fine.
Throw some up in your attic,where you live,for a few weeks and you'll be fine.
Neighbor to the North Tom (of Ft Pierce)Its so hot now I don't need an attic. It's like a convection oven outside. They are branches about an inch to 2 inches of peach and cherry. If I cut it up first it would dry faster wouldn't it?
That's not bad a few weeks.Thanks
That's not bad a few weeks.Thanks
Cut the pieces to the thickness you want for the smoker..turn them over every other day. This will eliminate the surface water from them.
To eliminate the bound water, the temp should be at least 130 degrees.
I have a moisture meter that I use when I dry my lumber..Usually a 8-9% would be good.
Dave
To eliminate the bound water, the temp should be at least 130 degrees.
I have a moisture meter that I use when I dry my lumber..Usually a 8-9% would be good.
Dave
Thanks, Dave, I bet it's at least that here where daytime temps are over 100. All I have to do is ask dear Hubby to cut it for me.
The daytime temp will also have to do what the Humidity is..I am assuming the the humidity in your town would be in the 40-50 %..This will not affect the drying too much.
Dave
Dave
Ditto what Tom says. If they're sticks like hoe-handle size or smaller, just cross cut them to whatever size you like. 2" works good. If they're much bigger in diameter, split 'em too. Then a month indoors will do the job.
Thanks Dave P ,tjr and Tom. I will cut some up and let you know.I am wanting to try some fruit wood.We just dumped a lot of pecan off our tree right before I got the Smokette.Oh well, another wind storm and I will have some.
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