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[Guru]

I have noticed the ash trees around my house seem to be drier during the winter time vs. summer.  Are standing trees moisture content less during the winter season?  When is the best time to drop trees?

[Scott7m]

probably in the winter before the sap comes back up in the spring.

[juddspaintballs]

The sap isn't flowing as much during the winter, but it's still there.  Cut the trees down when it's convenient for me.  I prefer killing trees when it's cooler outside than warmer, but I do trees year round.

[tulenutn2o]

I like to fell them when leaves are not present. Less mess to work around.

[mikenc]

Old timers say to cut trees on light nights, it is said they will dry quicker.

[oldchenowth]

The absolute best time is when YOU have time!  We always cut in the late fall.  Bugs are at least bearable, leaves give a good bed to drive on, don't sweat your butt off or freeze to death either.  I like to cut next years wood this year to give it time to dry.  Water doesn't seem to burn well in Michigan, but nothing seems to work right here in Michigan.  I'm takin' my Wood Doctor to Hawaii!  I'll just stare at it if I have to.

I gotta go, real life beckons.

Rich

[willieG]

i like to wait for snow...most of my wood comes from teh sides of hills and i must drag it up the slop with a wood winch on my tractor. The sow helps keep the dirt of the trees and my chainsaw stays sharp a little longer

but i would agree. if you can get around the bush easier this is the best time. no leaves in the tree, no (or few) bugs.