Should You Avoid Harvesting Bark in Wet Conditions?

Harvesting in Optimal Conditions

When harvesting bark for natural cordage fibers, it’s essential to do so in dry conditions. The ideal time for harvesting is in the morning after a dry night, when the bark is at its highest moisture content but still dry enough to work with. Harvesting in wet conditions will cause the bark to be soggy, brittle, and prone to cracking, making it difficult to strip and process.

Preparing for Harvest

Before heading out to harvest, prepare your tools by sharpening your knife and inspecting your bark scraper for any damage. Use a sharp knife to make a small incision in the bark, then use the scraper to peel away the bark, working from the bottom up. When stripping the bark, apply gentle pressure to avoid tearing the fibers.

Drying the Bark

After harvesting, allow the bark to dry completely in a well-ventilated area, either by laying it out in a single layer or by tying it into small bundles. It’s essential to dry the bark slowly and naturally, as high heat can cause the fibers to degrade. Once dry, the bark can be stored and processed further to create usable cordage fibers.