Quick Answer
INNER_BARK_FOR_TINDER: Harvest the inner bark of trees like willow, cedar, or birch, as it dries quickly and burns hot. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove a 6-8 inch section of bark, ideally from a recently cut branch. Avoid taking too much bark from a single tree to ensure its survival.
Selecting the Right Tree
When selecting a tree for inner bark, look for species that are known to produce dry, hot-burning tinder. Willow (Salix spp.), cedar (Cedrus spp.), and birch (Betula spp.) are excellent choices. These trees typically have a thin layer of bark that dries quickly and burns well. Avoid trees with thick or resinous bark, as they may not burn as well.
Harvesting the Bark
To harvest the inner bark, use a sharp knife to carefully remove a 6-8 inch section of bark from a recently cut branch. Cut the bark at a 45-degree angle to prevent water from running down the cut and to allow for better drying. Remove any loose outer bark and inner sapwood to reveal the dry, inner bark.
Processing the Bark
Once you have harvested the inner bark, you can use it as is or process it further to create a more efficient tinder. To do this, cut the bark into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick, and dry them further in the sun or by a low-heat fire. You can also crush the dried bark into smaller pieces to create a more fluffy tinder that will burn even more efficiently. Store your processed tinder in a dry place, such as a tinder nest or a waterproof container, to keep it ready for use.
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