Edible Wood Farm Journal: 2026 (1)
Every year it is a challenge to find enough suitable logs to turn into Edible Wood. About 20 m3 European oak with a diameter between 8 – 18 cm is needed. Most trees are part of a forest thinning, removal of smaller trees around more robust trees. These selected trees will continue to grow well due to less competition and the forest will also profit from more biodiversity. Using these trees as Edible Wood is, in my opinion, much beter that turning them into firewood. Many forest managers start their felling activities early in autumn but Edible Wood trees need to be cut down in January or February so that the wood is fresh enough for succesful inoculation. Add the requirements that the trees have to be healthy and predominantly undamaged then it is understandable that finding a suitable source is not always easy.
This year may be the start of a more longterm (business) partnership with a forest farmer. About 20 years ago a forest was planted on the grounds of a dairy and beef cattle farm close to where I live, next to the river IJssel. This mixed deciduous forest is managed externally and a part of it gets thinned each year. I first met with the forest manager last year at the end of the felling season in March. The forest manager was instantly enthusiastic and after our first work session together last Saturday he announced that he would like to deliver his logs to me on a more permanent basis. He is the first person up to now who has had read, understood and carried out my instructions in one go, so that is a good sign!
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